Publications Specialist - Managing Editor

@ ICF Next, we are fearless in finding new ways to solve problems, relentless in making sure it pays off for our clients and committed to making a positive change in the world.  

Here’s your chance to join our award-winning agency, ICF Next. We’re changemakers, a community of mission driven creatives, communicators, strategists, and technologists. 

Position Summary: The Publications Specialist - Magazine Editor is responsible for the comprehensive lifecycle management and editorial excellence of the agency’s magazine. This senior-level role requires expertise in the logistical administration of a quarterly publication cycle and high-level editorial services. The Editor ensures that the magazine is produced on time, follows rigorous quality standards, and effectively meets strategic communication objectives from initial content intake through final distribution.

Job Location- Hybrid, with approximately two days per week onsite with the client in McLean, Virginia. Onsite schedules are generally coordinated Monday through Thursday and may change based on clients’ need. Occasional travel to other local facilities may be required.

What You Will Be Doing

• Lifecycle & Production Management: Oversee the complete magazine lifecycle, including establishing production schedules, managing the publication cycle, and systematically tracking article versions through a comprehensive approval chain.
• Editorial & Writing Support: Provide high-level editorial support, assisting with content development and the creation of promotional materials. Implement strict version control and quality assurance protocols throughout the editing and document production process.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Act as the primary liaison between writing/author teams and the layout/design teams. Manage complex review processes involving multiple stakeholders, including authors, technical reviewers, and legal counsel.
• Compliance & Quality Control: Ensure all final articles and the complete magazine adhere to the GPO Style Manual, Chicago Manual of Style, and Section 508 accessibility requirements. Confirm all necessary sign-offs and approvals are secured before public release.
• Logistical Oversight: Manage the administrative aspects of distribution and formatting specifications to ensure the final product meets all organizational standards for professional release.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree or equivalent advanced professional certification is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in editorial and publication management.  

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven track record of overseeing the production of a periodical, preferably a technical or specialty publication (e.g., transportation or research journal).
• Experience supporting a government or federal agency 

• Expertise in project management for recurring publication cycles.
• Advanced proficiency in substantive editing, copyediting, and proofreading.
• Deep understanding of Section 508 compliance and federal publishing standards. Ability to manage complex approval workflows and coordinate between technical and creative teams.

Professional Skills

• A self-starter and problem solver who is highly organized and can support multiple priorities; working successfully in a team environment  
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communications skills 

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
• Creative thinker with innovative approach to problem solving

Bot and Third-Party Applications

Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration. Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration.  Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contact [email protected] for assistance.

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$0.00 - $0.00Virginia Client Office (VA88)