PLAIN is looking for a managing editor to help us revamp, edit and publish our e-journal, a key resource for our members. We would like to give our e-journal a fresh new look in line with our new strategic plan for 2025-2028.
This is a freelance position that will work independently but in coordination with PLAIN’s different committees. Are you interested in working for PLAIN? Read on to learn about the support we need.
As managing editor, you will:
- Collaborate with PLAIN to define the direction of the publication and future issues
- Generate content ideas and reach out to potential contributors as needed
- Oversee the production of each issue from start to finish, ensuring timelines are met
- Write the call for submissions and the introduction for each issue
- Ensure all articles align with the issue’s theme, working closely with contributors to maintain editorial standards
- Edit each issue directly, communicating with contributors, incorporating feedback, and coordinating with the graphic designer
- Handle additional duties and projects as assigned.
Your tasks will include:
Producing the e-journal
- Proposing topics for issues to the PLAIN board members and collecting feedback
- Writing and posting calls for submissions
- Managing publications inbox
- Commissioning articles from authors as needed
- Receiving proposals and responding to them
- Substantive/developmental editing and working with authors (first round of editing)
- Copy-editing with house style (second round of editing)
- Coordinating final proofreading (third round of editing)
- Coordinating foreword with PLAIN president
- Writing introduction to journal
- Coordinating layout with designer
- Coordinating with PLAIN’s communications committee for publication (website, email to members).
Internal communication
- Managing all timelines
- Updating style guide and contributor guide as needed
- Managing files in Dropbox.
Sponsors and advertisers
- Reaching out to potential sponsors
- Responding to advertisers’ requests
- Coordinating sponsor/ad files
- Cooperating with plain’s treasurer to collect sponsor/advertiser contributions.
Qualified candidates must have:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent and three years of relevant experience
- Demonstrated experience working in plain language
- Strong written communication skills in English
- Availability to work a minimum of 25 hours per issue
- Ability to invoice PLAIN.
We are looking for people who have:
- A creative and independent work style, with the ability to take feedback from the PLAIN board.
- A connection to the plain language community
- Knowledge of other languages
- Proficiency with cloud storage software, authoring and co-editing software, and team collaboration apps such as Slack
- Professional email etiquette (clear, friendly, and helpful)
- Strong time management skills.
- Ability to work remotely.
Terms of appointment
This is a one-year term appointment with the potential for renewal. The pay rate is USD 25-30 per hour, depending on experience.
Applications
Think you’re a good fit? Please send us:
- your CV/resume
- a letter describing why you would be the perfect fit for this position
- 2 references.
Send your application to profdev@plainlanguagenetwork.org. The deadline for applications is Friday, 15 November 2024. The chosen candidate will start in January 2025.