Manager, Production Design (National Geographic)

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 $117,200.00 to $157,100.00 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