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Role Description

The Editor in Chief of Forest Science , published by the Society of American Foresters, serves in a visible role focused on the editorial and strategic positioning of the Journal. The Journal’s content reflects the breadth of professional interests in the field of forestry and related natural resources. The Editor in Chief serves at the pleasure of SAF for a contract term of three years, extendable for one additional three-year term. The Editor in Chief works closely with SAF’s publications staff, production and publishing vendors, Associate Editors, and at times directly with authors, reviewers, and readers, for the benefit of the Journal and the Society. The anticipated hourly workload will require a commitment of 8 to 10 hours per week. This is a unique opportunity to set the strategic direction for the Journal for the next five to ten years.

Qualifications

• Membership: Active membership to the Society of American Foresters; if not currently a member, the selectee agrees to become a member.
• US Residency: Must be a resident of the United States.
• Publishing Experience: Significant record of authorship of scientific papers published in peer-reviewed journals or successful science communication publications. Preference for candidates with experience as associate editors or editors for journals in forestry.
• Education: Graduate degree (preferably a PhD) in forestry with a broad-based understanding of the field.
• Professional Network: Established network in academia, industry, and federal agencies within forestry and natural resources.
• Technological Aptitude: Proficient in cloud-based computing, email, Microsoft Office Suite, and web-based software. Knowledge of manuscript and peer review management systems is required.
• Strategic and Collaborative Mindset: Ability to coordinate with SAF’s leaders and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
• Judgement, Professionalism, and Accountability: Possess solid judgment skills and willingness to be held accountable for editorial decisions.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Strategic:
  • Work with SAF publishing staff to grow submissions to the Journal, including solicitation for special issues/special sections.
  • Identify opportunities for guided impact factor growth and ethically increase citations.
  • Attract and retain qualified authors and reviewers.
  • Improve the Journal’s performance for key milestones for submitted manuscripts.
  • Support publishing staff on projects related to strategic growth.
• Editorial Board:
  • Identify, invite, and onboard new associate editors.
  • Monitor and assess performance of associate editors; provide guidance when necessary.
• Day-to-Day Management:
  • Timely response to in-process manuscripts requiring action by Editor in Chief.
  • Assign manuscripts to Associate Editors for review process oversight.
  • Fulfill role of Associate Editor for in-process manuscripts if needed.
  • Evaluate and issue final editorial decisions on all submissions.
  • Assist with collection of front matter (podcast selection, cover image, Editor’s Choice, etc.).
• Financial Responsibility and Management:
  • Create and report on opportunities for special supplement sales and sponsorship opportunities.
• Other:
  • Attend and lead annual meeting at SAF’s national convention.
  • Collaborate with publishing staff to deliver yearly report about Journal’s performance.
  • Contribute manuscripts or special items for the Journal as needed.

Remuneration and Other Benefits

• Stipend of $13,200 per annum (paid as $1100 per month).
• No additional funds for assistants/administrative support; support provided by SAF’s publications department.

Conflict of Interest

The Editor in Chief will be expected to reveal any and all (whether real or considered) conflicts of interest and/or financial disclosures, including but not limited to employment, financial support, or relationships.

Employer Support

The Editor in Chief should possess the necessary support from their employer to carry out the duties associated with the role, or demonstrate the ability to conduct the role’s responsibilities on personal time. Past Editors in Chief have been federal employees and successfully obtained ethics clearance to serve in the position. If the selectee is a federal employee, SAF staff will help guide the individual through the process of obtaining the necessary ethics approval.

Location

United States (Remote)

Employment Type

Contractor