The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that seeks to improve the systems of democracy and justice in the United States. We work to hold our political institutions and laws accountable to the twin American ideals of democracy and equal justice for all. Among our core priorities, we fight to protect voting rights, end mass incarceration, strengthen checks and balances, and preserve constitutional protections in the fight against terrorism. Part think tank, part advocacy group, part cutting edge communications hub, we start with rigorous research. We craft innovative policies. And we fight for them —– in Congress and the states, in the courts, and in the court of public opinion. 

Position Overview

Publications play a fundamental role in the Brennan Center’s theory of change. As a vehicle for developing and disseminating original research and innovative reforms, they routinely mold the national conversation about critical issues facing American democracy. 

The Production Editor will work closely with colleagues in the Communications Department and with Brennan Center’s attorneys and scholars, helping to shape print and digital reports, shepherding them to publication, and ensuring that they meet exacting editorial standards.

Note: This is a hybrid position. Staff are currently working from home two days a week. This position is based in New York City. 

Responsibilities 

• Manage print and digital production schedules to meet tight deadlines, coordinating the work of Brennan Center staff and editorial freelancers 

• Edit manuscripts and associated materials for accuracy, rigor, accessibility, sensitivity, and adherence to house style 

• Collaborate with report authors and program directors to revise manuscripts 

• Copyedit manuscripts and prepare them for typesetting 

• Check proofs for adherence to design and brand guidelines 

• Proofread print and digital publications 

• Correct proofs in InCopy quickly and accurately 

• Help develop ideas for creatively promoting reports’ findings and policy proposals 

Qualifications 

• Minimum 5 years of editorial experience at a publishing house, media organization, think tank, or advocacy organization 

• A knack for translating esoteric concepts into plain language, editing for clarity and concision, and writing compelling display copy

• Impeccable knowledge of the Chicago Manual of Style, as well as good sense about when to deviate from it 

• Meticulous copyediting and proofreading skills, including close attention to citation formatting 

• Keen attention to design and typographic standards pertaining to print layouts 

• Proficiency with InCopy and content management systems 

• Project management and interpersonal skills to expeditiously move competing projects of various size and scope through the editorial pipeline 

• Knowledge of inclusive style guides and associated best practices 

• A degree in political science, journalism, English, or a related field 

Preferred 

• Background in Brennan Center issues or legal writing 

• Proficiency with InDesign 

• Familiarity with data visualization concepts and tools 

• Experience with project management tools such as Basecamp or Trello 

Salary: The salary is highly competitive in the field and commensurate with experience. 

To Apply: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until a qualified candidate is identified. To apply, please visit this link https://brennancenter.applytojob.com/Production-Editor. Please upload the following application materials: resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references. No phone calls or faxes. Please reference where you saw this posting in your cover letter. 

If you have difficulty with the online system, you may send your application by e-mail to: brennancenterjobs@nyu.edu with “Production Editor" in the subject line, after registering in the online system. An online application, however, is strongly preferred to ensure your application is reviewed. 

Note: The Brennan Center is committed to public health and to the safety and well-being of our colleagues and visitors. As such, we have adopted a policy requiring all employees working in the New York and Washington, DC, offices to be vaccinated against COVID-19, including having a booster, or to meet the legal guidelines for an exemption. 

The Brennan Center for Justice is committed to a workplace based on equal opportunity and a strong belief in the increased effectiveness that comes from a diverse workforce. To this end, Brennan Center

• Welcomes and hires applicants of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, socioeconomic identities and sexual orientations, including people who have been previously incarcerated;
• Creates a workplace where true diversity is fostered and different perspectives are valued and freely exchanged;
• Ensures that all members of the Brennan Center community feel welcome and respected, and have equal opportunities to thrive and advance within the institution; and
• Is committed to supporting low-income communities and communities of color particularly affected by social inequities.