Senior Designer (Book Publishing / Academic Press)

Oakland, CA (Hybrid) | Full-Time | $80,785-$94,189/yr

About the Role

One of the most forward-thinking scholarly publishers in the country is hiring a Senior Designer to join its creative team and design compelling books for both academic and trade audiences. The press publishes work that influences public discourse, advances scholarship, and challenges the status quo.

The Senior Designer manages the creative design and production of assigned books from initial concept through final files and printed copies. Approximately 75% of the role focuses on jacket and cover design, with the remainder dedicated to interior design, production, and freelance/vendor management. The position is based in Oakland with an on-site requirement of at least two days per week (Wednesday and Thursday).

Candidates must live in California.

What the Role Covers

• Creating original book jacket and cover designs for academic and trade titles
• Developing interior book designs, page layouts, typographic systems, and detailed type specifications
• Adapting existing design templates for books requiring customized treatments or special editorial elements
• Preparing production-ready electronic files, mechanicals, and materials for printers and prepress vendors
• Collaborating with acquisitions, marketing, editorial, production, authors, and other stakeholders to determine the right visual approach for each title
• Incorporating feedback thoughtfully while maintaining strong design standards
• Reviewing proofs throughout the production process and inspecting printer proofs and finished books
• Evaluating illustrations and determining sizing, placement, and reproduction requirements
• Designing complex or heavily illustrated page layouts
• Adapting existing files for print-on-demand and electronic book formats
• Writing clear design briefs and communicating specifications to composition and production vendors
• Art directing and managing projects assigned to freelance designers and other creative vendors
• Supporting occasional collateral, annual reports, journal covers, and other design projects
• Sharing expertise and helping train or support junior colleagues

Qualifications

• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Acrobat
• At least 2 years of experience designing or composing book interiors, developing design specifications, and adapting existing specifications for customized designs
• Knowledge of color proofing and printing methods
• Experience developing comprehensive typographic specifications and communicating effectively with composition vendors
• Strong design judgment with ability to solve complex design problems creatively and collaboratively
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Strong project-management and organizational skills with ability to manage numerous projects at different production stages
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision
• Ability to work creatively within budget and schedule constraints
• A portfolio demonstrating strong book design or comparable graphic design work
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel
• High school diploma, two years of art training, and three years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination

Preferred

• Book graphic design experience
• Knowledge of printing and production processes
• Experience managing freelance designers or freelance creative work
• Experience creating coordinated materials within an established brand system
• Familiarity with Google Workspace

Additional Details

Compensation is $38.69-$45.11 per hour (approximately $80,785-$94,189 annually), depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include access to the University of California's comprehensive benefits program covering health and welfare, retirement, and additional employee resources. First application review is October 15, 2026.

The position will remain open until filled. Candidates should be prepared to provide a portfolio of relevant design work.

To Apply

Visit Mediabistro for full details and application instructions.