Job Openings

The University of Minnesota Press is currently seeking candidates for two positions: Production Editor and Publicity Associate.


PRODUCTION EDITOR

The University of Minnesota Press seeks an organized and detail-oriented individual to join the production team in a fast-paced book publishing office.

The Production Editor manages the publication of approximately 40 new books a year, including print, ebook, and on-demand formats. The ideal candidate will possess strong project management and communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively and independently on simultaneous projects. Facility with Microsoft Word and Adobe Creative Suite and familiarity with The Chicago Manual of Style and XML preferred.


**This position will be required to work in the state of Minnesota.**

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Manages the publication of new books, from draft manuscript to printed, ebook, and on-demand formats.

10% Plans production of book publications

  • Reviews draft manuscripts and art programs and writes instructions to Editorial; attends transmittal meetings; makes recommendations about formats, trim sizes, paper stock, cover design, e-book considerations, and scheduling.
  • Plots production schedules; establishes budgets; assigns projects to outside vendors.

30% Coordinates typesetting of books

  • Specifies text type, using existing design templates. Orders text designs from external and internal sources for select projects.
  • Orders typesetting from outside vendors. Arranges schedules; approves estimates; prepares order forms; compiles manuscript and artwork files for transmission to vendor. Acts as liaison with vendor throughout the composition process.
  • For select jobs, sets type using desktop-publishing software.
  • Distributes page proof. Coordinates author review of proofs and indexing.
  • Edits proofs for formatting. Merges author’s and proofreader’s alterations. Copyedits index manuscripts. Submits marked master proof to typesetter for revisions. Proofreads revised pages against master set.

10% Manages book-cover design and production

  • Attends cover-design meetings. Composes design briefs; prepares order forms and submits materials to freelancers; responds to queries about design from authors.
  • Orders mechanical art from designers. Compiles materials including copy, EAN bar code, layout template, and original artwork.

15% Manages production of e-book products

  • Processes typesetting files for conversion to epub and web-ready; orders special e-book development services as needed.
  • Assures quality of e-book products.

25% Coordinates manufacturing of books

  • Estimates manufacturing costs; solicits competitive bids as needed. Compiles final costs and reports to Marketing to receive final print runs.
  • Orders final files for printing. Verifies that files meet printer guidelines.
  • Submits orders for printing and binding. Prepares order forms; compiles final files and artwork, if needed for transmission to designated printer. Acts as liaison with vendors throughout the manufacturing process.
  • Works with manufacturer to ensure that books are delivered in timely fashion. Arranges special shipments from bindery as needed.
  • Reviews all forms of printer proofs for accuracy and aesthetic quality. Coordinates preparation of correction files and revised proofs as needed.

5% Manages production of distributions and copublications

  • Determines production requirements of distributed and copublished titles, such as cover design, copyright page treatment, and manufacturing and freight concerns.

5% Other tasks as assigned


The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) and the University of Minnesota Press endorses a “work with flexibility” approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile Three or Four.
**This position will be required to work in the state of Minnesota.**

Flexible Work Profile Three is expected to work remotely more than 50% of the time. Your dedicated office space will be in your remote work location.
Flexible Work Profile Four is expected to work fully remotely with the exception of required attendance for on-site events. Your dedicated work space will be in your remote work location.
The University of Minnesota Press management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • BA/BS degree plus at least two years of related experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least six years
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud software

Preferred Qualifications

  • Strong English-language skills
  • Knowledge of book print production
  • Facility with Adobe InDesign and Photoshop

About the Department

The University of Minnesota Press is recognized internationally for its innovative, boundary-breaking editorial program in the humanities and social sciences and as publisher of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), the most widely used objective tests of personality in the world. Minnesota also maintains as part of its mission a strong commitment to publishing books on the people, history, and natural environment of Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. Established in 1925, Minnesota is among the founding members of the Association of University Presses (AUP).

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
  • Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
  • Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • University HSA contributions
  • Disability and employer-paid life insurance
  • Employee wellbeing program
  • Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
  • Financial counseling services 
  • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.


PUBLICITY ASSOCIATE

The University of Minnesota Press is seeking an organized, enthusiastic, and creative person to join our marketing and sales team. The ideal candidate will have an interest in publishing books and contributing to culture and scholarly communications, as well as a demonstrated track record of handling multiple projects simultaneously and providing excellent follow-through. They will work well independently while also actively contributing to a team’s success through excellent communication and collaboration.

**The salary range for this position is $44,000-$50,000 dependent on education and experience.**

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Publicity (75%)

  • Plan and execute publicity activities in a timely way for 60-80 scholarly books per year across academic areas of acquisition and including the Forerunners Series.
  • Research media and journal outlets and develop outreach lists using existing tools.
  • Write and distribute publicity pitches and press releases upon publication.
  • Execute and track review copy mailings to select journals and upon request.
  • Secure book reviews and coverage, including arranging author interviews and supplying requested information and cover art.
  • Coordinate logistics and promotion for events for a small number of select titles.
  • Seek publicity opportunities beyond the marketing plan.
  • Assist Publicist in publicity and event tasks for select backlist books, as assigned.
  • Create and produce Advance Reading Copies and coordinate NetGalley digital review copy submissions and promotions for Publicity Department.
  • Maintain accurate publicity database information for scholarly journals.

Departmental Support and Participation (20%)

  • Participate in weekly departmental meetings and regular planning meetings.
  • Support department correspondence by providing authors with marketing plans and information on a regular basis.
  • Assist department operations including select award submissions, desk and exam copy processing, and giveaway mailings.

Other (5%)

  • Copywriting for a small number of titles.
  • Attend book events, conferences, and trade shows on occasion.
  • Other duties as assigned.

    Physical Demands
    Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation—

    • Remain in a stationary position for an extended period of time.
    • Move about office to access files and office equipment.
    • Operate a computer and other office equipment.

    Work Profile
    The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) and the University of Minnesota Press endorses a “work with flexibility” approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.

    This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profiles Two, Three or Four.

    • Flexible Work Profile Two is expected to work on-site more than 50% of the time. Your office will be located in the Barrel House building at 111 3rd Avenue South, Minneapolis.
    • Flexible Work Profile Three is expected to work remotely more than 50% of the time. Your dedicated office space will be in your remote work location.
    • Flexible Work Profile Four is expected to work fully remotely with the exception of required attendance for on-site events. Your dedicated work space will be in your remote work location.

    The University of Minnesota Press management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

    Qualifications

    Required Qualifications

    • BA/BS degree or a combination of related education and work experience (preferably in marketing, communications, publicity, or a related field) to equal at least four years
    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
    • High level of competence in communicating with people whose culture or background is not your own
    • Demonstrated attention to detail and high level organization skills
    • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and timelines at one time
    • Proficient using Mac computers, MS Office, and Google applications

    Preferred Qualifications

    • Enthusiasm, curiosity, composure, and dedication
    • Experience pitching media and awareness of different media types
    • Knowledge of scholarly publishing and communications
    • Experience working creatively and inclusively to engage a wide range of readers and communities
    • Strong presentation skills
    • Knowledge of NetGalley online services
    • Familiarity with Cision; Adobe CC including InDesign; and Filemaker Pro

    About the Department

    The University of Minnesota Press is recognized internationally for its innovative, boundary-breaking editorial program in the humanities and social sciences and as publisher of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), the most widely used objective tests of personality in the world. Minnesota also maintains as part of its mission a strong commitment to publishing books on the people, history, and natural environment of Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. Established in 1925, Minnesota is among the founding members of the Association of University Presses (AUP).

    Benefits

    Working at the University

    At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

    The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

    • Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
    • Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
    • Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
    • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
    • University HSA contributions
    • Disability and employer-paid life insurance
    • Employee wellbeing program
    • Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
    • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
    • Financial counseling services 
    • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

    Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

    How To Apply

    Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

    Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

    To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

    Diversity

    The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

    The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

    Employment Requirements

    Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.