Head of Scholarly Publication (Editor) IS-1082-12

Smithsonian InstitutionWashington, DC
Onsite

About The Position

The Head of Scholarly Publication (HSP) is a member of the Freer Research Center (FRC), which oversees scholarly programs (symposia, workshops, and lectures), fellowships, and object-based, peer reviewed, scholarly publications. The HSP oversees all aspects of the museum’s scholarly, peer reviewed monographs, catalogues, and journals, in particular Ars Orientalis, a prestigious annual journal co-published with the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. The HSP works closely with the Director of the FRC and other team members to ensure that the museum’s scholarly publications, both physical and digital, build on their strength and increase readership both nationally and internationally. With a new NMAA Strategic plan in place, the HSP collaborates with the museum’s research community as well as outside scholars to expand the online presence of FRC’s scholarly publications. The HSP maintains close ties with publishers and develops strategies to promote NMAA scholarly contributions to engage our current audiences and reach new ones.

Requirements

  • One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the IS-11 level in the Federal service or comparable experience outside the Federal government.
  • Managing the editorial development and production of publications from concept through review, revision, design, and final publication
  • Working with authors, peer reviewers, editors, designers, publishers, and other stakeholders to develop, refine, and deliver high-quality publications
  • Editing scholarly manuscripts, catalogues, journals, monographs, or similar publications for clarity, structure, consistency, accuracy, and adherence to editorial standards
  • Managing editorial workflows, production schedules, contracts, or related administrative processes for a publications program
  • Monitoring publishing trends, best practices, and audience engagement strategies to strengthen the reach and impact of a publication program
  • Representing a publications program or scholarly editorial function in professional settings such as conferences, symposia, or collaborative partnerships

Nice To Haves

  • Ability to provide management oversight
  • Knowledge of Asian art
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Knowledge of publication industry standards
  • Knowledge of digital publications

Responsibilities

  • Shape overall direction and strategic goals of the publication program in collaboration with Director of FRC
  • Stay up to date with industry trends and best practices
  • Monitor trends and methodologies to identify emerging interest areas
  • Stay in touch with peers and attend relevant conferences
  • Work with authors to define and refine publication concepts; evaluate proposals; ensure approval by director
  • Work with authors to revise manuscripts for readability and alignment with the goal/mission of the publication program of the FRC
  • Identify and communicate with peer reviewers, create revision plan with author and ensure revision and feedback are incorporated
  • Review manuscripts for accuracy, clarity, consistency, and adherence to style guidelines
  • Work closely with authors, editors, designers, and other publishing staff to ensure quality publications
  • Manage the editorial workflow, production schedule, contracts and budget
  • Implement and maintain quality standards for all publications and ensuring all relevant SI procedures were met and stakeholders consulted
  • Manage a team of writers, editors, and vendors to ensure the publication meets standards and deadline
  • Oversea contracts for co-publishers, negotiate royalties and subventions, evaluate needs and services needed from co-publishers
  • Coordinate promotion plans, evaluate publications and track metrics
  • Establish key metrics and goals for scholarly publications
  • Represents FRC at conferences and symposia
  • Actively promotes FRC scholarly peer review publications
  • Collaborates with FRC Director to fundraise for scholarly publications program

Benefits

  • Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Transit/Commuter Benefits
  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
  • Annual and Sick Leave
  • Family Friendly Leave
  • 403b Retirement Plan
  • Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants
  • Credit Union
  • Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care)
  • Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care)
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