Production Assistant / Associate

Job Posting: Production Assistant / Associate

Charlesbridge, an independent publisher of high-quality children’s books, seeks a super-organized and detail-oriented candidate who is energized by the production side of book publishing to join our production team as Production Assistant or Associate. Charlesbridge currently operates under a hybrid in-office/virtual work schedule, requiring two days a week in our Watertown, Massachusetts office. This is a full-time, benefitted position. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to Massachusetts to qualify.

Description

Reporting directly to the Production Director, the Production Assistant/Associate is primarily responsible for working with the development team to plan the production of frontlist titles, traffic and review print files for press, review proofs, prepare reprint files using InDesign, and order and track reprints.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

· Book Production: Manages both frontlist titles and new editions through the production process. Collects, reviews and distributes component templates for all new titles and checks files to make sure they conform to the proper sizing per the templates. Reviews content of files before they go to prepress to ensure error-free files that conform to printer specifications.

· Design: Makes minor design adjustments for custom editions and other edits or corrections for reprints as needed.

· Proof Reviewing: Traffics all digital proofs as they are received through the review and approval process. Performs review for own front list or reprint titles and communicates any corrections to the printer.

· Reprints/File Prep: Prepares files for reprints by checking correction memos, permissions renewals, back ads updates, etc.; makes necessary corrections; and circulates for approvals.

· E-Books: Creates backlist eBooks from Quark files when needed. Maintains list of e-book fonts that need licenses purchased.

· Database/Systems: Maintains impressions and schedules in title management system (Biblio) for own reprints and first printings; and generates purchase orders for Production Director’s review. Performs secondary review and requisite sign-offs of titles and related purchase orders managed by others.

· Archiving: Tracks and oversees archiving of electronic files of front list titles as they become available. Coordinates the delivery of files to foreign rights publishers. Maintains file archive as titles reprint.

Qualifications

· Bachelor of Arts degree or equivalent; 2-5 years of applicable experience in print production.

· Working knowledge of Adobe InDesign and Acrobat are a must. Familiarity with Photoshop is preferred, as is a working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite. Familiarity with Biblio and Acumen is a bonus!

· Has a strong drive for perfection, a critical eye for color, and takes ownership and pride in work.

· Works constructively with others in a team environment; cheerful problem solver of short- and long-term challenges.

· Works well under deadline pressure; able to multi-task and change work focus quickly as necessary to meet deadlines.

· A quick study who is eager to learn new technologies and processes.

About Charlesbridge Publishing

Charlesbridge publishes high-quality books for children, with a goal of creating and supporting lifelong readers and lifelong learners. Our children’s books encourage reading and discovery in the classroom, library, and home, and embrace a child’s innate sense of wonder and fun. Charlesbridge believes that books should offer accurate information, be both compelling and educational, and promote a positive worldview. To this end, we continually strive to seek new voices, new visions, and new directions in children’s books.

Charlesbridge is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

How to Apply

Applicants should send a resumé and cover letter outlining how they meet the specific requirements of the position. For more information visit www.charlesbridge.com.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $52,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Experience:

• Print Production: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $52,000