Yale University is hiring: Science Editor, Yale Press in New Haven

Salary Range

$55,000.00 - $85,000.00

Overview

Yale University Press is seeking an editor to acquire and commission 15-20 books per year in the sciences, with an emphasis on environmental science and natural history. Working with a transatlantic team of colleagues, this editor will develop books for general trade, scholarly, and student audiences that guide, define, and inform conversations around the environment, ecology, biology, and how we interact with and impact the world around us.

In addition, the Press is seeking someone who can identify and build publishing relationships with related departments, museums, and libraries at Yale. Potential applicants should demonstrate ability to establish and cultivate editorial relationships with leading and emerging academics and science writers, familiarity with science publishing trends, and an editorial vision to expand upon Yale University Press’ strengths. Applicants should also have knowledge to substantiate marketing and publicity outreach for signed books, represent projects effectively, understand market and sales opportunities, and experience editing works for a general audience. Experience publishing illustrated science works is preferred but not required.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Understanding of diversity, inclusion, and commitment to applying and incorporating differences.
• Proficiency in creative problem‑solving, decision making, and time management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve publishing and strategic press‑wide goals.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

• History of working with academics and writers to shape ideas into accessible works aimed at a broad audience.
• Experience publishing illustrated books in the sciences.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Responsible for acquiring titles in designated areas and signing and/or independently managing 10-20 titles per year.
2. Reviews and assesses publishing potential of submitted projects and proposals and/or commissions new projects for the list; prepares proposals for the Acquisitions Panel and Publications Committee.
3. Researches and identifies key authors; develops a list of high‑scholarship standards; meets authors; develops and commissions projects; attends conferences and panels to scout potential books and network with scholars.
4. Works closely with authors to improve content, tone, and style of manuscripts; recommends revisions and ensures incorporation.
5. Researches, selects, and commissions scholarly review manuscripts; manages the peer‑review process and maintains relationships with authors, advisory board, and outside readers.
6. Maintains manuscript, art, and publishing databases to track budgets, honoraria, and list signings; manages tracking of permissions and other related materials.
7. Prepares manuscripts and accompanying materials for release to editing and production departments; manages permissions for copyrighted illustrations and literary passages; tracks progress; supervises acceptance checklists and contract compliance.
8. Collaborates with the team on promotional/sales strategies, manages author expectations, and presents titles at pre‑production, launch, and sales meetings.
9. Monitors expenditures to ensure book budgets are met; ensures timely payment of expenses including reviewer honoraria, advance payments, and fees.
10. Identifies subvention sources and supervises preparation of grant applications.
11. Experiments with and develops new digital products for the list and creatively modifies traditional book projects to fit digital customers; keeps pace with industry developments, adapts to changing business practices and market conditions, and uses foresight in acquiring books for a rapidly changing marketplace.
12. May perform other duties as needed.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and a minimum of two years publishing experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Background Check Requirements

All candidates for employment will be subject to pre‑employment background screening for this position, which may include motor vehicle, DOT certification, drug testing and credit checks based on the position description and job requirements. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Health Requirements

Certain positions have associated health requirements based on specific job responsibilities. These may include vaccinations, tests, or examinations, as required by law, regulation, or university policy.

Posting Disclaimer

Salary offers are determined by a candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education in relation to the position requirements, along with the role’s grade profile and current internal and external market conditions.

EEO Statement

The University is committed to basing judgments concerning the admission, education, and employment of individuals upon their qualifications and abilities and seeks to attract to its faculty, staff, and student body qualified persons from a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives. In accordance with this policy and as delineated by federal and Connecticut law, Yale does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment against any individual on account of their sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, disability, status as a special disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era or other covered veteran. Inquiries concerning Yale's Policy Against Discrimination and Harassment may be referred to the Office of Institutional Equity and Accessibility (OIEA).

Note

Yale University is a tobacco‑free campus.