Developmental Editor I

Human Kinetics•Champaign, IL

3d•$49,000 - $67,000•Hybrid

About The Position

As a member of either the Academic Editorial Department, the Developmental Editor I (DE I) is the Product Development expert responsible for reviewing and developing text manuscripts and supporting graphic elements (design features, illustrations, photographs) to meet the needs of the reader according to the quality, budget, and schedule expectations established by the Acquisitions Editor. The DE I functions at the Proficient level in all aspects of the position.

Requirements

High school diploma required, Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a language-related field, instructional design, or one of the sport sciences preferred.
Knows the rules of U.S. English grammar and style and can recognize errors.
Has knowledge of the Chicago Manual of Style.
Understands the systems and procedures for developing manuscripts, including accompanying graphic elements.
Can recognize poorly constructed sentences and paragraphs. Can identify ineffective organizational structure in long-form written content. Has well-honed reading comprehension and can understand content about topics that are unfamiliar.
Demonstrated proficiency on HK’s diagnostic developmental editor test.
Can perform basic math and is familiar with the functions of spreadsheets
At least 5 years of print or online publishing experience required
Proficiency with the complete Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook), including accuracy in data entry
Proficiency with Adobe Acrobat DC
Proficiency with publishing technology and productivity, collaboration, and communication software tools
Integrity
Resourcefulness
Effort
Respect
Teamwork
Stewardship
Accountability
Adaptability
Attention to detail
Computer literacy
Decision making
Financial awareness
Functional expertise and usage
Planning and organizing
Quality orientation
Results orientation
Stress tolerance
Conceptual thinking
Initiative
Interpersonal understanding
Negotiating
Oral communication
Organizational awareness
Persuasiveness
Self-confidence
Written communication

Responsibilities

Evaluates manuscripts or manuscript batches to assess adherence to acquisition vision and identifies changes that need to be made. Evaluates manuscript organization, content, tone, style, and completeness.
Writes manuscript reviews that accurately and professionally identify weaknesses and problem areas and offer specific and efficient solutions and examples that help the author write subsequent chapters or implement the revisions. Helps create templates for authors to write to when necessary.
As appropriate, provides guidance to freelancers or authors about strategies for ensuring HK content reflects diversity and inclusiveness, and is free of bias. Considers evolving accessibility guidelines for print and digital content and works with HK teammates to apply them as appropriate for the needs of the project.
Develops art and photo manuscripts and video shoot lists according to quantity and cost guidelines. Assists with photo/video shoots as needed. Makes good decisions regarding the use of art and photos to illustrate and reinforce content.
Ensures design transmittal materials effectively represent book content and that the graphic design plan is appropriate for the intended audience and for the design level of the project.
Identifies all items that need permission, obtains source information from the author, and transmits materials to the Permissions Manager. Works with authors to rework items that need permission when possible, in an effort to avoid costly permission fees.
Typemarks manuscripts and ensures callouts for non-text elements are complete and placed appropriately, or provides guidance to Production Editors in the completion of this task.
Ensures accurate art, photo, and permissions data and costs are recorded according to established procedures so that reports are complete, providing guidance to Production Editors in the completion of this task as appropriate. Keeps the publication schedule updated with accurate schedule and project data.
Completes castoffs accurately. Resolves page count issues before Managing Editor (ME) assignment or sending project to outsourcing partner.
Ensures projects are properly revised, accurate, and complete before starting manuscript prep or transitioning project for full-service outsourcing. Prepares complete project materials for internal colleagues, authors, or outsourcing partners at various stages according to established procedures as needed. Provides all necessary project pieces and details to allow ME or outsourcing partner to successfully and independently manage the suite following project handoff.
Contributes to HK’s profitability by working productively and ensuring project budgets and schedules are met. Suggests improvements to editorial processes or systems to increase efficiency and promote innovation. During periods of lighter workload, assists colleagues with tasks as needed.