S

Locum Associate or Senior Editor, Communications Earth & Environment

Springer Nature
Full-time
On-site
Shanghai, Shanghai, China
πŸ“£ Marketing Communications (MarCom)

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Locum Associate or Senior Editor, Communications Earth & Environment

πŸ”Ή Company: Springer Nature

πŸ”Ή Location: Shanghai, Beijing, or Berlin - Hybrid Working Model

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full-Time, Fixed-Term

πŸ”Ή Category: Publishing, Editorial

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: 8th May 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 5-10 years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: Hybrid (Office and Remote)

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Selecting and preparing manuscripts for publication in the journal
  • Promoting the journal’s coverage of Earth and environmental sciences, focusing on climate sciences, hydrology, and cryospheric science
  • Managing a team of external editors and ensuring they understand and implement the journal’s philosophy and policies
  • Attending conferences and visiting research institutions to report on activities
  • Collaborating with advertising and marketing teams to provide insights and suggestions

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong scientific background and excellent communication skills. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility while maintaining a presence in the office.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Select manuscripts for publication, ensuring they are accessible to a wide readership

βœ… Ensure manuscripts accepted for publication are transferred to production in an appropriate, complete state

βœ… Recommend appropriate manuscripts for journal press releases and write press release drafts

βœ… Recruit, train, support, and keep engaged a team of external editors

βœ… Attend conferences and meetings, and visit research institutions to report on activities

βœ… Advise advertising and marketing teams as required

βœ… Devise and supply editorial content for special projects as agreed with the Chief Editor

ASSUMPTION: The role involves a high level of autonomy and requires strong decision-making skills. The successful candidate will be able to work independently and manage their time effectively.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: PhD level (or equivalent) in one or more disciplines that fall within the environmental or environmental social sciences

Experience: Research experience and broad training will be an advantage

Required Skills:

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with fluency in English (written and spoken)
  • Ability to read and assess the novelty, context, and implications of research submitted to the journal from different disciplines
  • Desire to meet scientists worldwide, online and in person, and to learn more about them and their research

Preferred Skills:

  • Editorial experience
  • Postdoctoral experience

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong scientific background and a passion for communication will be well-suited to this role. Previous editorial experience is desirable but not essential.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this role is estimated to be between CNY 400,000 - 600,000 per year for Shanghai and Beijing, and EUR 50,000 - 70,000 per year for Berlin, depending on experience and qualifications. This is based on industry standards for editorial roles in publishing.

Benefits:

  • Competitive benefits package
  • Opportunities for professional development and growth
  • Hybrid working model, offering flexibility and work-life balance

Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM local time, with flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work as needed

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for editorial roles in publishing. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Springer Nature operates in the book and periodical publishing industry, focusing on academic and professional publishing. The company is a global leader in scientific, technical, and medical publishing, with a strong presence in the Earth and environmental sciences.

Company Size: Springer Nature is a large organization with over 10,000 employees worldwide. This size allows for ample opportunities for growth and collaboration across various imprints and brands.

Founded: Springer Nature was founded in 2015 through the merger of Springer Science+Business Media and Nature Publishing Group. The company has a rich history dating back over 180 years, with many well-known brands and imprints.

Company Description:

  • Springer Nature is a global publishing company that opens doors to discovery for researchers, educators, clinicians, and other professionals. The company provides access to millions of people through its imprints, books, journals, platforms, and technology solutions.
  • Springer Nature is committed to ensuring that fundamental knowledge can be found, verified, understood, and used, enabling progress, improving lives, and protecting the planet for future generations.
  • The company is home to some of the best-known names in research, health, educational, and professional publishing, including Nature, Springer, BMC, Palgrave Macmillan, Apress, Macmillan Education, Scientific American, Springer Healthcare, Springer Medizin, Research Square, J.B. Metzler, BSL, and Adis.

Company Specialties:

  • Publishing
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Medicine
  • Business
  • Education
  • and Research

Company Website: https://group.springernature.com/

ASSUMPTION: Springer Nature’s large size and global presence offer applicants numerous opportunities for career growth and development. The company’s commitment to progress and innovation makes it an attractive employer in the publishing industry.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is suitable for candidates with 5-10 years of research experience, preferably at the postdoctoral level. The role offers opportunities for career progression within the editorial team and the wider organization.

Reporting Structure: The Locum Associate or Senior Editor will report directly to the Chief Editor of Communications Earth & Environment. They will also work closely with the editorial team, external editors, and other stakeholders within Springer Nature.

Work Arrangement: The hybrid working model allows for a combination of office-based and remote work. The specific arrangement will be agreed upon with the successful candidate.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Progression to a permanent role within the editorial team or other departments within Springer Nature
  • Expanding editorial responsibilities and taking on more complex manuscripts
  • Developing expertise in specific areas of the Earth and environmental sciences
  • Gaining experience in project management, team leadership, and strategic decision-making

ASSUMPTION: The hybrid working model and opportunities for career progression make this role an attractive option for candidates looking to advance their careers in publishing and editorial work.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Springer Nature’s offices in Shanghai, Beijing, or Berlin. The offices are modern, collaborative spaces designed to foster innovation and creativity.

Office Location(s): Shanghai (Changle Rd), Beijing (Ideal Plaza), and Berlin (Heidelberger Platz 3)

Geographic Context:

  • Shanghai is a major commercial and financial hub in China, with a vibrant scientific community and a strong focus on environmental research
  • Beijing is the capital of China and a major political, cultural, and educational center. It is home to numerous universities and research institutions
  • Berlin is the capital of Germany and a major hub for science, technology, and innovation. It is home to several renowned universities and research institutes

Work Schedule: The work schedule is typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM local time, with flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. The hybrid working model allows for a balance between office-based and remote work.

ASSUMPTION: The location of the role in major scientific hubs offers applicants the opportunity to engage with a diverse and vibrant scientific community. The hybrid working model provides flexibility and work-life balance.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission
  • Phone or video screening with the Human Resources department
  • In-depth interview with the hiring manager and/or other team members
  • Final decision and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Scientific knowledge and expertise in the Earth and environmental sciences
  • Editorial experience and skills
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Cultural fit with Springer Nature and the editorial team

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant scientific and editorial experience
  • Prepare a brief outline (no more than 300 words) of an exciting development in climate science, hydrology, or cryospheric sciences, referring to a recent scientific publication or news media article
  • Be ready to discuss your salary expectations and how your qualifications and experience align with the role’s requirements

ATS Keywords: Climate Research, Editorial Experience, Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Research Experience, Attention to Detail, Team Management, Scientific Writing, Assessment of Research, Public Engagement, Training, Support, Networking, Project Management, Adaptability, Passion for Science

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is competitive, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their scientific expertise and editorial skills. The interview process will focus on assessing the candidate’s fit with the role and the company’s culture.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Springer Nature’s editorial management system
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Email and calendar tools (Outlook, Google Workspace)
  • Project management tools (Asana, Trello)

ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will be comfortable using Springer Nature’s editorial management system and other common publishing tools. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools is also beneficial.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Progress
  • Quality
  • Integrity
  • Innovation
  • Collaboration

Work Style:

  • Dynamic and fast-paced
  • Collaborative and team-oriented
  • Focused on progress and innovation
  • Committed to quality and excellence

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • How do you align with Springer Nature’s values of progress, quality, integrity, innovation, and collaboration?
  • How comfortable are you working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and managing multiple priorities?
  • How do you approach building and maintaining effective working relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including scientists, editors, and marketing teams?

ASSUMPTION: Candidates who are passionate about science, open-minded, and enjoy reading papers outside their chosen area of research will be well-suited to the editorial team of Communications Earth & Environment. The role requires strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, dynamic environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • The role may require occasional evening or weekend work to meet deadlines or attend events
  • The hybrid working model may present challenges in terms of communication and collaboration with remote team members
  • The role may require travel to attend conferences or visit research institutions
  • The publishing industry is subject to change and evolution, which may present challenges and opportunities for the role

ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will be able to manage their time effectively, balance work and personal responsibilities, and adapt to change in a dynamic working environment.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • This role is unique in its focus on the Earth and environmental sciences, with a particular emphasis on climate sciences, hydrology, and cryospheric science
  • Compared to related editorial roles, this position offers a unique opportunity to work on a fast-growing, multidisciplinary open-access journal
  • Career progression in this role may lead to opportunities in other editorial teams or departments within Springer Nature

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should consider the unique aspects of this role and how it aligns with their career goals and interests in the Earth and environmental sciences.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Managing the peer review process for a high-profile manuscript on climate change mitigation strategies
  • Organizing a special issue on the cryosphere and its role in the Earth system
  • Collaborating with the marketing team to promote a series of articles on hydrological modeling and water resource management

ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will have experience managing complex projects, working with diverse teams, and delivering high-quality outcomes under tight deadlines.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • Can you describe the typical workflow for a manuscript from submission to publication?
  • How does the editorial team collaborate with other departments within Springer Nature, such as marketing and advertising?
  • What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the editorial team and the wider organization?
  • How does the hybrid working model support work-life balance and flexibility?
  • What are the key priorities for the role in the first 30-60-90 days?

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should use the interview process to gain a deeper understanding of the role, the editorial team, and Springer Nature as an employer.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through this link: https://springernature.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/SpringerNatureCareers/job/Shanghai/Locum-Associate-or-Senior-Editor--Communications-Earth---Environment_JR102921
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant scientific and editorial experience
  • Prepare a brief outline (no more than 300 words) of an exciting development in climate science, hydrology, or cryospheric sciences, referring to a recent scientific publication or news media article
  • Be ready to discuss your salary expectations and how your qualifications and experience align with the role’s requirements
  • Follow up with the hiring manager or Human Resources department one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about the next steps in the process

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.