Publications Specialist II - Magazine Editor

Manhattan Strategy Group; Bethesda (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Manhattan Strategy Group is seeking a Publications Specialist II to manage the complete lifecycle and editorial excellence of the customer’s quarterly research magazine, from initial content intake through final distribution.

The role emphasizes coordinating writers, reviewers, and designers, ensuring compliance with GPO/Chicago styles and Section 508 standards, and maintaining production schedules for a Federal agency audience.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting publications for a Federal agency.
• Bachelor's degree in communications-related field; advanced degree desirable.
• 7–10 years of editorial/publication management experience.
• Proven track record overseeing periodical production.
• Strong knowledge of Section 508 and federal publishing standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full magazine production lifecycle, including schedules and version tracking.
• Provide high-level editorial support for content development and promos.
• Serve as liaison between writers and layout/design teams.
• Manage multi-stakeholder review processes with authors and legal.
• Ensure articles and final magazine meet style guidelines and accessibility standards.
• Obtain necessary sign-offs before public release.
• Handle administrative and formatting aspects of distribution.

Skills

Editorial management

Content development

Stakeholder coordination

Cross-functional collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications/English/Journalism

Master's degree or equivalent certification desirable

Job description

Description
Manhattan Strategy Group is seeking a Publications Specialist II to manage the complete lifecycle and editorial excellence of the customer's quarterly research magazine, from initial content intake through final distribution.

Description
Manhattan Strategy Group is seeking a Publications Specialist II to manage the complete lifecycle and editorial excellence of the customer's quarterly research magazine, from initial content intake through final distribution.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the complete magazine production lifecycle, including schedules and article version tracking for a Federal agency
• Provide high-level editorial support, assisting with content development and promotional materials
• Serve as primary liaison between writing/author teams and layout/design teams
• Manage complex, multi-stakeholder review processes involving authors, technical reviewers, and legal counsel
• Ensure all articles and the completed magazine adhere to the GPO Style Manual, Chicago Manual of Style, and Section 508 requirements
• Confirm all necessary sign-offs and approvals are secured before public release
• Manage administrative and formatting aspects of distribution to ensure professional final release

Minimum Qualifications

• REQUIRED - Experience supporting publications and content for a Federal agency
• Bachelor\'s degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or a closely related field; Master\'s degree or equivalent professional certification highly desirable
• 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in editorial and publication management
• Proven track record overseeing production of a periodical, preferably technical or specialty
• Deep understanding of Section 508 compliance and Federal publishing standards