Manager Production Design

Job Posting Title: Manager, Production Design (National Geographic) Req ID: 10156253 Job Description: Lead the print production team supporting National Geographic Magazine, Kids/Little Kids, Bookazines, and History publications, ensuring efficient workflows, high-quality output, and on-time release while maintaining design integrity and production excellence. **Responsibilities:** * Lead and develop a team of production specialists. * Oversee production schedules, proofing cycles, and release readiness. Ensure files meet technical, prepress, and printer specifications. * Partner with Design, Editorial, Photo, Graphics, and vendors to resolve issues. * Maintain production standards, workflows, and quality control processes. * Drive operational improvements and production efficiency across publications. **Basic Qualifications:** * Minimum 7 years of experience in print production, magazine publishing, or related media environments. * Experience leading teams and managing complex production workflows. * Advanced expertise in Adobe InDesign and print production processes. * Strong project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills. * Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities. **Preferred Qualifications:** * Experience supporting multiple publication brands or product lines. * Knowledge of publishing workflow systems such as K4. * Experience with printer/vendor management and release processes. * Understanding of color correction, retouching, and image reproduction standards. * Proven success improving workflows and production operations. **Required Education:** * Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Publishing, Communications, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. **Preferred Education:** * Advanced degree or specialized training in Publishing, Graphic Design, Production Management, or a related discipline. The hiring range for this position in Washington, D.C. is $115,500 to $154,800 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered. Job Posting Segment: National Geographic Job Posting Primary Business: National Geographic (DET) Primary Job Posting Category: Editorial - Graphic Development Employment Type: Full time Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code: Washington, DC, USA Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code: Date Posted: 2026-07-21