Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor

About the role

Bowhead is seeking a Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor for an upcoming effort in McLean, VA. This effort establishes and implements policy, budget, program management, and administrative mechanisms to support nationwide research, development, and technology program. The Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor is responsible for the comprehensive lifecycle management and editorial excellence of the agency’s magazine.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the complete magazine lifecycle, including establishing production schedules, managing the publication cycle, and systematically tracking article versions through a comprehensive approval chain.
• Provide high-level editorial support, assisting with content development and the creation of promotional materials.
• Implement strict version control and quality assurance protocols throughout the editing and document production process.
• Act as the primary liaison between writing/author teams and the layout/design teams.
• Manage complex review processes involving multiple stakeholders, including authors, technical reviewers, and legal counsel.
• Ensure all final articles and the complete magazine adhere to the GPO Style Manual, Chicago Manual of Style, and Section 508 accessibility requirements.
• Confirm all necessary sign-offs and approvals are secured before public release.
• Manage the administrative aspects of distribution and formatting specifications to ensure the final product meets all organizational standards for professional release.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in editorial and publication management.
• Proven track record of overseeing the production of a periodical, preferably a technical or specialty publication (e.g., transportation or research journal).

Skills

• Expertise in project management for recurring publication cycles.
• Advanced proficiency in substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading.
• Deep understanding of Section 508 compliance and federal publishing standards.
• Ability to manage complex approval workflows and coordinate between technical and creative teams.

Qualifications

US Citizenship is a requirement for a Public Trust clearance at this location. Must be able to obtain a clearance at the Public Trust level.

Physical Demands

Must be able to lift up to 15 to 25 pounds, stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time, and twist, bend and squat periodically.