Production Editor

The Production Editor will oversee 15-25 titles per year through the editorial and production process, from raw manuscript to bound book. This position prepares manuscript files for online editing, including XML tagging in MS Word; hiring and reviewing the work of freelance copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, and graphic designers. Works with authors in the review of edited manuscripts and proofs; preparing manuscripts for design and production; checking all stages of proof; editing some manuscripts and miscellaneous materials, including cover copy, forewords and introductions, indexes, and marketing copy; and supervising student employees. This position is an integral part of the Editorial, Design, and Production Department and entails creating and meeting project budgets and schedules, executing quality control checks on ebooks, and assisting with production tasks as needed.

At least five years of book-related production and editorial experience required with excellent copyediting, proofreading, and organizational skills and expert knowledge of The Chicago Manual of Style is required. Must be able to work and review work electronically using the track changes function in Word and mark-up tools in Adobe Acrobat. Knowledge of InDesign and Photoshop a plus.

The target budgeted minimum starting salary for this position is $55,000 - $60,000. Offers will be based on candidate experience and education, as well as equity within Northwestern University. Northwestern University Libraries and Press are committed to building a culture of inclusivity and equity; this position contributes toward that culture by integrating principles of inclusion, diversity, and accessibility into all aspects of our work.

Please Note: Hybrid work scheduled. All department and staff meetings are required in person, small team, singular office space, collegial staff. Travel may be required. May work remotely. Annual university presses meeting, work from home on hybrid schedule available.

Specific Responsibilities

Responsible for 15-25 titles annually, in the Press’s scholarly and trade programs, managing all editorial aspects of book production from manuscript to bound book for the manuscript editorial department
Styles manuscripts in XML-first workflow
Hires and manages freelance copy editors, proofreaders, indexers, and graphic designers
Supervises and reviews the work of freelancers, editorial interns, and student employees
Serves as a liaison to other departments at the Press, including Acquisitions, Business, and Sales & Marketing
Works with authors and editors in the review of edited manuscripts and proofs
Maintains copyediting guidelines and helps decide house style
Analyzes manuscripts for editorial and design requirements and prepares them for typesetting
Works on and reviews all phases of text (copyedits, proofreads, reviews all freelanced work, etc.)
Coordinates copyediting of manuscripts and proofreads galleys, introductions, indexes, etc.
Copyedits and proofreads all stages of cover production, from cover copy to printers’ proofs
Coordinates schedules with freelancers, editors, and the production manager
Manages a list of reprint assignments
Performs other related duties as required
Creates and maintains production schedules and editorial budgets for all book projects
Executes quality-control review of ebooks; participates in ebook creation
Manages a list of reprint assignments
Performs other related duties as required

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or the equivalent combination of education, training, and experience from which comparable skills can be acquired
Minimum five (5) years of in-house book publishing experience
Experience in editing copy, proofreading, and electronic editing
Excellent copyediting, proofreading, and organizational skills
Knowledge of The Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)
Must be able to work and review work electronically using the track changes function in Word and mark-up tools in Adobe Acrobat
Familiarity with contracts, permission, and copyright
Accuracy and attention to detail
Ability to prioritize multiple assignments, work well under pressure, and consistently meet tight deadlines
Strong communication and writing skills
Satisfactory performance on a proofreading test