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Production Assistant, Penn State University Press

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Feb 02, 2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Penn State University Press seeks a Production Assistant to play an essential role in its capacity to publish scholarly books.

This position will perform vital functions such as setting up print-on-demand, converting backlist titles for new printing, and filing for copyright registration and Library of Congress cataloging.

Other ways that the Production Assistant will support the Editorial, Design, and Production (EDP) department workflow will be through coordinating new-in-paperback releases, archiving, and administrative tasks.

More specific responsibilities of the Production Assistant include but are not limited to:

  • Prepare books for print-on-demand, assembling metadata and print specifications, managing print vendor uploads, approving digital proofs, and sending staff notifications

  • Prepare backlist files for reprint, prioritizing projects based on sales and marketing needs, locating files or coordinating scanning, and updating files for the new printing

  • Submit Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication (CIP) applications and complete copyright registration for new titles

  • Support New in Paperback, scheduling projects, updating files, and managing print vendor uploads

  • Obtain permission for cover images and supplemental interior images

  • Archive project files for completed book projects

  • Provide administrative support to the EDP team, especially the Production Manager and Production Coordinator

Required Qualifications:

  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills

  • Effective written and verbal communication

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and meet deadlines

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Degree in publishing, English, graphic design, or related field

  • Experience with Adobe InDesign and FileMaker Pro

  • Familiarity with book production processes, digital file management, or publishing workflows

  • Experience coordinating multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Editor - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None If filled as Editor - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

Application Information: Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to be fully considered.

Additional Information:

The Production Assistant will work at Penn State's University Park campus and join the Penn State University Press team, a division of The Pennsylvania State University Libraries and Scholarly Communications.

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Join the Penn State University Press in the vigorous pursuit of excellence in publishing!

Penn State University Press is renowned for publishing groundbreaking scholarly books across its three imprints:

  • Penn State University Press, scholarship in the arts and humanities and regional trade titles

  • Eisenbrauns, specialist publications in biblical studies, ancient Near Eastern studies, archaeology, ancient languages, and Islamic studies

  • Graphic Mundi, trade graphic novels for general readers on important topics

Additionally, Penn State University Press is home to a robust journals publishing program comprising more than 80 titles and more than 175 issues annually.

The Press combines tradition and innovation, producing scholarly and trade books along with academic journals that inspire, educate, and engage global audiences.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $42,100.00 - $67,300.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

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.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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