University of Illinois Press

Champaign, IL

Assistant Acquisitions Editor

Deadline: July 22

The University of Illinois Press seeks an energetic, well organized, detail-oriented assistant acquisitions editor to provide administrative support to the acquisitions staff. The Assistant Acquisitions Editor works closely with the Press’s acquisitions staff in supporting the development and acquisition of a robust list of general interest and scholarly titles in a range of humanities and social science disciplines. The Assistant Acquisitions Editor provides skilled administrative support in managing the cultivation of prospective authors, the development and evaluation of manuscripts, and project management entailed in guiding new book projects through all aspects of the publication process.

A successful candidate will be adept at tracking, prioritizing, and processing multiple time-sensitive projects, working independently, and communicating clearly and diplomatically with authors and colleagues. They will be proficient in appropriate word processing and database programs. They will be a creative problem solver and open to challenges. The assistant acquisitions editor takes appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participates in the Press’s efforts to create a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment. Some travel required. Additional responsibilities include:

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assist editors with evaluating and processing submissions, coordinating and tracking peer review, estimating costs and revenues, and preparing and distributing project descriptions and packets for committee discussions.

2. Work with authors to finalize their submissions. Assess permissions, captions, and formatting of electronic text files. Work with production staff in obtaining cost estimates and art assessments. Prepare manuscripts for transmittal to production.

3. Participate in hiring and training of student workers and interns, and in professional development initiatives, as appropriate.

4. Prepare project descriptions and other materials for committee discussions. Research book projects, series, and sources of outside funding. Prepare queries and preliminary grant applications.

5. Other duties and responsibilities appropriate for an Assistant Acquisitions Editor.

6. Potential to take on increased acquisitions responsibilities, including acquiring books in designated subject areas under the direction of the Editor-in-Chief.

7. Attend scholarly meetings and conferences on behalf of the Press. (Some travel required.)

Qualifications

Required:

1. Any one or any combination of the following, totaling four (4) years (48 months), from the categories below

A. credit for college level training in any field

• 30 semester hours equals 1 year (12 months)

• 60 semester hours equals 2 years (24 months)

• 90 semester hours equals 3 years (36 months)

• 120 semester hours or or higher equals 4 years (48 months)

B. professional experience in editing and producing publications

2. Two (2) years (24 months) of progressively more advanced/responsible professional experience in editing and producing publications

Preferred:

1. Bachelor’s degree in a humanities or social science discipline.

2. Graduate degree in related field.

3. Related experience in book publishing or related enterprises (magazine publishing, library, bookstore, newspaper, yearbook, public relations).

4. Familiarity with manuscript development and preparation.

5. Familiarity with all stages of the publishing process.

6. Knowledge of copyright and contracts as they relate to book publishing.

Successful candidates will have the following:

1. Commitment to pursuing a career in academic publishing.

2. Evidence of superior academic achievement in fields that correlate to the major lists at the University of Illinois Press and/or in fields relevant to diversity and equity.

3. Sharp proofreading skills and the ability to write clearly for a variety of audiences.

4. Strong interpersonal communication, organizational, networking, and follow-through skills.

5. Ability to meet deadlines, prioritize, and work under pressure on multiple projects. Proficient word processing, database, internet, and Microsoft computer application experience.

6. The ability to work collegially and professionally with authors, scholars, and members of the U of I Press staff.

SALARY AND APPOINTMENT INFORMATION: This is a full-time Civil Service Publications Editor position appointed on a 12 month service basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after July 22, 2019. Salary is commensurate with experience.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND DEADLINE INFORMATION: Applications must be received by July 22, 2019. Apply for this position using the “Apply for Position” button below. If you have not applied before, you must create your candidate profile at http://jobs.illinois.edu. If you already have a profile, you will be redirected to that existing profile via email notification. To complete the application process: Submit the Staff Vacancy Application. Submit the Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability forms. Upload your cover letter, resume (months and years of employment must be included), and academic credentials (unofficial transcripts or diploma may be acceptable) and names/contact information for three references. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position using the “Apply for Position” button below. Applications not submitted through this website will not be considered.

For further information about this specific position, contact System HR at 217-333-2600. For questions about the application process, please contact 217-333-2137. The System Office conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment.

Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. System Human Resource Services (217) 333-2600 erhr@uillinois.edu

The System Office is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity and diversity. The System Offices welcome applications from women, underrepresented minorities, individuals with disabilities, protected veterans, sexual minority groups and other candidates who will lead and contribute to the diversification and enrichment of ideas and perspectives.