POSITION IDENTIFICATION
TITLE Managing Editor-Writer, Library Services
CLASSIFICATION NUMBER 5012
GRADE 42
CLASSIFICATION Exempt
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR Dean of Library Services
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Managing Editor-Writer, Library Services uses invention, imagination, originality, and talent to develop, write, and edit materials for print and electronic publications for MSU Libraries and Ozarks Studies Institute, which may include, but are not limited to books, including both monographs and compilations; bi-annual publication of OzarksWatch magazine; bi-annual publication of the E-Journal of Public Affairs; short pieces for LibNotes, the weekly e-newsletter of the MSU Libraries; and other types of written pieces for various purposes of the MSU Libraries, such as the Libraries’ annual report. The Managing Editor-Writer works closely with other employees of the MSU Libraries concerning content, publishing platforms and processes (both print and electronic), and other matters related to producing and publishing these types of content. The Managing Editor-Writer, Library Services also cultivates and sustains relationships with authors, content creators, graphic designers, and others in the general field of publishing. The Manager Editor-Writer, Library Services contributes to other programs and initiatives of the MSU Libraries.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A bachelor’s degree is required. A degree in English, Communication, Journalism, Public Relations or a related area is preferred.
Experience: Either one year work experience in a professional position as a managing editor preparing materials for publication or a minimum of three semesters experience in a part-time position in a similar professional setting is required.
Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required, especially an ability to write for external publications. Strong general editing skills, including working with a diverse group of creative people is required. Organizational and planning skills are required. Knowledge of digital writing and publishing is required. The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required.
Other: A significant scope of the publishing efforts of the MSU Libraries is related to the Ozarks history, so a solid understanding of the Ozarks multi-state region is required. Due to the nature of the position, some evenings, weekends, and travel are required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Helps to promote the University to alumni, donor, and internal audiences by contributing a unique or fresh interpretation of the publications of the Missouri State University Libraries.
2. Assures the production of material consistent with established guidelines by organizing materials and completing publishing and writing assignments in accordance to set standards regarding order, conciseness, style, and terminology.
3. Works with a wide variety of authors of fiction and non-fiction, as well as other types of content creators, to assist them in developing their potential as authors and content creators.
4. Contributes to the development of various publications by reviewing published materials and recommending revisions or changes in scope, format, and content or determining the need for development of new material, new publications, or new types of publications.
5. Assures consistency with standards by editing, standardizing, or making changes to material prepared by other writers or other personnel.
6. Develops subject matter for publication by conferring with various individuals and groups. Many of the current publications of the MSU Libraries deal with the Ozarks Region in some way.
7. Supports the MSU Libraries, particularly the Ozarks Studies Institute, by maintaining a project log of documents and other records and files, working with other staff members as part of a team to facilitate the reuse and storage of electronic document files, and assisting in the supervision of an office staff of editorial graduate assistants and student employees.
8. Manages author agreements and rights management activities and documentation related to the publishing of the MSU Libraries, including the Ozarks Studies Institute.
9. Contributes to a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds.
10. Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses as directed by the Dean of Library Services.
11. Contributes to the overall success of the Missouri State University Libraries by performing all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
SUPERVISION
The Managing Editor-Writer, Library Services is supervised by the Dean of Library Services and assists in in the supervision of others as assigned.
OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES
October 2021
