Publications Program Specialist

The Choice is employing an immediate, contract Publications Program Specialist opportunity with our client, a major scientific professional association.

Timeline: ASAP, approximately 6 months. This role is to provide coverage during a temporary staffing shift in the department. If there is opportunity for extension, candidates will be notified later on in the position, as staffing needs are further determined.

Compensation: $29 an hour

Location: We are seeking candidates who reside in the DMV area. The work will be performed from home.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 1-3 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience working in a traditional or online Web-based publishing environment is preferred.
• Experience with scholarly communication is a plus.
• Familiarity with scientific terminology is a plus.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.

Position Summary:

This role manages peer review and publication activities for one or more scientific journals. The Program Specialist works directly with authors, editors, reviewers, and production partners to support journal operations, resolve submission and publication issues, and contribute to departmental strategy and journal performance.

Responsibilities:

• Manage manuscript submissions in GEMS, ensuring compliance with journal scope, timelines, ethical standards, and quality expectations while maintaining positive relationships with editors, authors, and reviewers.
• Monitor peer review workflows, identify operational issues, and troubleshoot or escalate concerns as needed.
• Support editors, authors, and reviewers by providing GEMS assistance, procedural guidance, policy interpretation, troubleshooting, and coordination of editorial board meetings.
• Provide coverage for additional journals during peak volume periods and on an as-needed basis.
• Administer special collections, enhanced article content, corrections, fee waivers, cover and carousel images, and social media activities.
• Partner with management to support journal health and strategic goals through reporting, analytics, and operational recommendations.
• Maintain effective communication with Editors-in-Chief and editorial boards to promote transparency, accountability, and strong journal performance.
• Demonstrate ownership of journal operations by meeting deadlines, maintaining high standards for accuracy and professionalism, and delivering excellent stakeholder service.
• Participate in special projects, contribute new ideas aligned with departmental strategy, and develop enhanced journal content under the guidance of department leadership.
• Perform other duties as assigned.