Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Join the Penn State University Press as an Editorial Assistant, supporting the acquisition and development of scholarly and trade books through peer review coordination, manuscript preparation, and contract administration.
The Editorial Assistant will have the opportunity to work on book projects in a range of subject areas from highly specialized to general interest as they support two editors acquiring up to 50 new titles per year.
They will learn about all aspects of book acquisitions while gaining insight into the workings of other Press departments, including Sales and Marketing, and Editorial, Design, and Production.
This is a demanding but exciting job at a reputable university press, and excellent training for any career path in publishing.
Manage the full peer review process for proposals and manuscripts, including recruiting reviewers, coordinating materials and deadlines, maintaining confidentiality, tracking reviews, summarizing recommendations, and initiating reviewer payments.
Route and track new book contracts through electronic signature systems and monitor fulfillment of contractual obligations such as payments and gratis copies.
Prepare manuscripts for production by creating castoffs, production estimates, front matter, and Profit and Loss statements; evaluating manuscript and illustration files for quality and style compliance; and organizing third-party permissions.
Support acquisitions editors with contractual and approval workflows by preparing materials for interdepartmental and faculty board meetings, drafting cover sheets, tracking required components, and documenting meeting outcomes.
Collaborate with editorial assistants on the hiring, training, and oversight of a departmental intern.
Maintain accurate project records across shared drives and title management systems for all projects under consideration.
Serve as a point of contact for authors, responding to inquiries from manuscript submission through transmittal to production.
Effective verbal and written communication skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others
Demonstrated willingness to engage with subject matter across varied academic disciplines and fields
Detail-oriented, efficient, organized, and able to prioritize a large volume of work effectively
Ability to work independently with initiative in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment
Capacity to collaborate effectively and contribute positively to team goals
Ability to lead, mentor, or influence others through collaboration and example
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.
The Pennsylvania State University Libraries is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $46,400.00 - $67,300.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
$46,400.00 — $67,300.00
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