> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/970489-application-instructions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/970489-application-instructions). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS - **Company:** Penn State University - **Location:** State College, PA, United States (Remote available) - **Experience:** Experienced - **Salary:** $51,000.0 - $81,500.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Adobe InDesign, Filemaker - **Published:** June 13, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=7f42b26407ce7196 ## About the Role * Experience either in scholarly publishing or with book production workflows * Experience with print production, including print estimating, vendor management, and manufacturing oversight * Working proficiency in Adobe InDesign, including the ability to make minor text and layout corrections * Experience working with external vendors, negotiating, and managing production budgets * Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail * Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously * Effective written and verbal communication skills MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS If filled as University Press Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as University Press Specialist - Senior Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None, 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. ## Description Penn State University Press seeks a Production Manager to play a central role in the production of scholarly books and digital publications. Penn State University Press is renowned for publishing groundbreaking scholarship in the arts and humanities, as well as regional trade titles. This position oversees the production workflow for books across all imprints, ensuring projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to established quality standards. This position manages production planning, cost estimating, scheduling, and print vendor coordination. The Production Manager works closely with vendors and internal staff across departments to ensure projects meet the Press's standards for quality, schedule, and budget., * 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 FileMaker. Print Management & Manufacturing Oversight * Serve as the primary contact for printers for offset and short-run digital printing projects. * Manage routing, correction, and approval of printer proofs. * Identify opportunities for cost savings; seek out new vendors, evaluate print samples, and check references. * Track print and delivery progress and resolve production and shipping issues to avoid schedule delays. * Advise on reprint decisions for backlist titles based on design, production, and manufacturing specifications. Composition & Prepress Oversight * Coordinate composition and prepress with external vendors, preparing and transmitting 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. Scheduling & Workflow Management * Create, monitor, and revise production schedules for all book projects in production. * Lead regular scheduling meetings and communicate updates to key stakeholders., * Support the Art Director in maintaining overall design and production standards for all books and press-related visual materials. * Make minor text and layout corrections during production. * Prepare and manage cover materials and production folders for designers. Additional Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: * Maintain production records, schedules, and print specifications in FileMaker and shared systems. * Respond to internal and external inquiries related to production status. * Review project files prepared for archiving by the Production Assistant and provide final approval. ## Related Videos - [Can CSS recreate Tufte's designs?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/517-can-css-recreate-tufte-s-designs) ## Related Articles - [Starter Kit For Job Applications For Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/7-starter-kit-for-job-applications-for-developers) - [A call for Guest Writers for the WeAreDevelopers Magazine](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/648-a-call-for-guest-writers-for-the-wearedevelopers-magazine) - [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs) - [System change: restart as developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/39-system-change-restart-as-developer) - [How to Write a CV and Interview if You Don't Fully Qualify For The Job](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/183-how-to-write-a-cv-and-interview-if-you-don-t-fully-qualify-for-the-job) - [What Jobs Can You Get with a Software Engineering Degree?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/398-what-jobs-can-you-get-with-a-software-engineering-degree)