An Editor reviews stories, reports or manuscripts, makes corrections, and works with writers to improve content and structure of writing. Plans and coordinates material to be included in publications. Works with print material or website content. May specialize in copy editing (careful review of text for errors) or other types of editing; may work as an executive editor with authority to approve publications and contracts.
Position is eligible for hybrid work subject to University policy.
Job Summary:
The Publication Acquisitions Editor II acquires book manuscripts sufficient in number to fulfill annual goals and within budget constraints under minimal supervision. Ensures acquisitions align with the direction and vision of the Editor-In-Chief. Provides training and guidance to entry-level Publication Acquisition Editors.
Additional Department Summary:
Acquires 20-25 book manuscripts annually in scholarly fields that include but are not limited to literary criticism; rhetoric; and Southern art, music, literature, and culture. Acquires trade titles intended for a broad general-interest or regional readership. Solicits and evaluates proposals and manuscripts. Secures appropriate peer reviewers from subject-matter experts. Prepares packets for the faculty editorial board to review. Presents new projects to press staff and to the faculty editorial board. Guides authors through revisions. Prepares final manuscripts for editorial and production. Assesses editorial and production costs and considerations to factor those costs into any given book project. Participates in seasonal list-planning as well as general press operations. Identifies sources of financial support or subsidies for their book projects, executing such fundraising in consultation with, and at the direction of the Press Director. Works closely with series editors to maintain output and foster innovative work while also seeking to establish new series as appropriate. Maintains productive and collegial relationships with the manuscript editorial, production, marketing, and business departments to keep books on schedule and budget.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and four (4) years of book acquisitions and/or publishing experience; OR master's degree and two (2) years of book acquisitions and/or publishing experience.
Skills and Knowledge:
Ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain a steady pipeline of projects. Strong organizational skills. Keen attention to details. Ability to set priorities and work independently. Excellent analytical, critical thinking, project management, and problem resolution skills. Ability to negotiate with authors and internal staff. Good judgment. Superior interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (particularly Word and Outlook). Solid understanding of the scholarly publishing industry, with an awareness of finances and market potential, as well as a familiarity with current publishing trends and developments.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with database management. Experience with the scholarly literature pertaining to literary criticism; rhetoric and communication studies; and Southern art, music, literature, and culture, particularly as they pertain to the State of Alabama and the American South.
Background Investigation Statement:
Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation
DOES NOT
automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.
Equal Employment Opportunity :
The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the
EEOC's Know Your Rights:
Workplace discrimination is illegal poster. The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.
