Production Manager, Press

Position Overview

Penn State University Press seeks a Production Manager responsible for overseeing the production workflow for scholarly books and digital publications across all imprints. The role ensures projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to established quality standards. The position is based on campus at Penn State’s University Park.

• 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 File Maker.
• Serve as the primary contact for printers, managing routing, correction, and approval of proofs.
• Identify cost‑saving opportunities, evaluate new vendors, and review print samples.
• Track print and delivery progress and resolve production and shipping issues.
• Advise on reprint decisions for backlist titles.
• Coordinate composition and prepress with external vendors; transmit 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 design and production standards for all visual materials.
• Make minor text and layout corrections during production.
• Prepare and manage cover materials and production folders for designers.
• Maintain production records, schedules, and specifications in File Maker and shared systems.
• Respond to internal and external inquiries about production status.
• Review project files prepared for archiving by the Production Assistant and provide final approval.

• Experience in scholarly publishing or book production workflows.
• Experience with print production, including estimating, vendor management, and manufacturing oversight.
• Working proficiency in Adobe InDesign, with the ability to make minor text and layout corrections.
• Experience negotiating and managing production budgets with external vendors.
• Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• For the University Press Specialist – Advanced Professional classification:
  Bachelor’s Degree plus 3+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination.
• For the University Press Specialist – Senior Professional classification:
  Bachelor’s Degree plus 6+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination.
• No certifications required.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 – $81,500.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; substantial paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time); and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. The position requires on‑site work at the University Park campus. Background checks are required in accordance with University policies. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.; the University does not sponsor work visas.

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.