The John Dickinson Writings Project (JDP), under the auspices of the Morris Library at the University of Delaware (UD), seeks an Assistant Editor to be in residence (health conditions permitting) at UD. The JDP is producing letterpress and digital editions of the writings and selected correspondence of John Dickinson. The successful candidate will assist in the preparation of Volumes Three and Four of The Complete Writings and Selected Correspondence of John Dickinson, published by the University of Delaware Press.

The position will begin at the Assistant Editor level on a contractual basis with the expectation that, within the first year, the successful candidate will transition into a position with more responsibilities and a salary and benefits at UD (contingent on grant funding).

The successful candidates will perform the full range of documentary editing work: collection and cataloguing, transcription, proofreading, annotation, copyediting, and indexing. Because the JDP submits volumes in camera-ready copy, typesetting work is also required. The successful candidates must be dedicated to producing work that meets the high standards set by the Association for Documentary Editing and the JDP.

Pay will be competitive and commensurate with skills and experience. The successful candidate must either be able to commute to Newark, Del., on a daily basis or be willing to relocate by July 2022.

The ideal candidate must possess the following skills and qualifications:

• At least a master’s degree in early American history, or related field
• At least 2 years’ experience with an 18th-century or earlier documentary editing project (US Founding era preferred)
• The ability to work in a team environment and independently is essential
• Experience with editorial work, including strong copyediting skills, familiarity with style guides (CMOS preferred), and a firm grasp of rules of grammar and style
• Meticulous attention to detail is essential
• Ability to manage complex work under the pressure of tight production deadlines
• Ability to learn complex editing protocols quickly
• Outstanding paleographic skills
• Advanced knowledge of programs including MS Word, Adobe Acrobat, and Cindex
• A collegial spirit and good sense of humor are essential

Additional qualifications desired:

• Managerial experience
• Grant-writing experience
• Experience with desktop publishing software (InDesign), or willingness to learn
• Experience in a publishing office, including production work and/or graphic design or book design
• Understanding of HTML or other mark-up language
• Knowledge and/or use of Drupal and other content management systems
• Reading knowledge of Latin, French and/or German

For more information on the JDP, please visit the project information page here.

Review of applications will begin immediately. Applicants invited to interview may be asked to complete a transcription test.

Please submit a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references to:

Dr. Christopher Minty (cfm6b@virginia.edu)

Managing Editor

Questions may be directed to: Dr. Jane E. Calvert (jane.calvert@uky.edu)

Director and Chief Editor