Production Manager, Penn State University Press

Position Overview Production Manager – Oversees production workflow for scholarly and digital publications at Penn State University Press, ensuring projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and meet quality standards. Location: Penn State University Park campus, on‑site. Responsibilities Prepare print estimates and detailed manufacturing specifications for offset and short‑run digital printing in consultation with the Art Director. Solicit, collect, and evaluate printer and vendor quotes. Process vendor invoices and maintain expense data in FileMaker. Serve as primary contact for printers and manage routing, correction, and approval of printer proofs. Identify opportunities for cost savings; evaluate new vendors and print samples. Track print and delivery progress, resolve production and shipping issues to avoid schedule delays. Advise on reprint decisions for backlist titles. Coordinate composition and prepress with external vendors, transmitting materials and specifications. Route proofs, samples, and correction sets between compositors, the Art Director, and the Production Coordinator. Request and post final packaged InDesign files and printer PDFs. Create, monitor, and revise production schedules for all book projects. Lead regular scheduling meetings and communicate updates to stakeholders. Support the Art Director in maintaining overall design and production standards. Make minor text and layout corrections during production. Prepare and manage cover materials and production folders for designers. Maintain production records, schedules, and print specifications in FileMaker and shared systems. Respond to internal and external inquiries related to production status. Review project files prepared for archiving and provide final approval. Qualifications Experience in scholarly publishing or book production workflows. Experience with print production, including estimating, vendor management, and manufacturing oversight. Working proficiency in Adobe InDesign and ability to make minor text and layout corrections. Experience managing external vendors, negotiating, and production budgeting. Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Education & Experience Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree; 3+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. (Advanced Professional level) Bachelor’s Degree; 6+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. (Senior Professional level) Background Check Employment will require successful completion of background checks in accordance with university policies. Salary & Benefits Salary range: $51,000.00 – $81,500.00. Full‑time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members. EEO Statement 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr