Chief Art Director, Scientific American

Title: Chief Art Director, Scientific American

Location: New York– Hybrid Working

About Springer Nature

Springer Nature is one of the leading publishers of research in the world. We publish the largest number of journals and books and are a pioneer in open research. Through our leading brands, trusted for more than 180 years, we provide technology-enabled products, platforms and services that help researchers to uncover new ideas and share their discoveries, health professionals to stay at the forefront of medical science, and educators to advance learning. We are proud to be part of progress, working together with the communities we serve to share knowledge and bring greater understanding to the world. For more information, please visit about.springernature.com and follow @SpringerNature.

About the Brand

Founded in 1845, Scientific American is the oldest continuously published magazine in the U.S. and the leading authoritative publication for science and technology in the general media. Together with scientificamerican.com and eight local language editions around the world, it reaches more than nine million readers. Scientific American is published by Springer Nature.

Visit scientificamerican.com and follow @ScientificAmerican / @Sciam

About the Role

Scientific American is looking for a Chief Art Director to manage print and digital design at one of the most respected brands in media. You’ll be a key player in shaping the creative direction of all our varied products, helping a 180-year-old brand –the longest-running continually published magazine in the country– establish its identity for the next two centuries.

The Chief Art Director oversees the entire creative process from concept to execution, ensuring that every magazine page and image reflects our voice and engages our audience. They must be a skilled manager, able to juggle several projects and freelancers on tight deadlines, and be comfortable laying out a page or sketching a cover concept.

Candidates for the position must understand the nuances of print magazine design (we’re looking for InDesign power users) and have a keen eye for typography, photography, and user experience. The director should be eager to collaborate with editors, photographers, and other designers to produce visually stunning layouts.

The ideal candidate combines classic taste with edgy thinking; they’re excited to push creative boundaries but understand the importance of history. They love science, nature, and technology, and they’re passionate about making something meaningful.

This role is based in our New York office on a hybrid working model. 

Responsibilities: 

• Overseeing the design of content for both print and digital platforms

• Brainstorming and designing print covers, features, and packages

• Working with editors on visually-driven story ideas

• Collaborating with staff and freelancers to produce photos and illustrations

• Managing a budget and ensuring that projects are completed on time 

Experience, Skills & Qualifications:

Essential 

• Experience in creative design and direction at a consumer media outlet

• Expertise in graphic design, typography, photography, and other visual elements

• Ability to manage complex projects and communicate effectively

• Ability to develop creative strategies, solve design challenges, and adapt to changing needs

• Understanding of journalistic principles, editorial workflows, and the media landscape

• Experience with design software, especially InDesign, and other relevant tools.

Desirable

• Experience in science or technology journalism

• Experience at a print magazine

• A strong network of freelance designers, illustrators, photographers, and artists

• A graduate degree in design or fine arts

• A passion for all things science

Springer Nature US provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package which includes the benefit offerings listed below:

• Medical, Dental and Vision

• 401(k) with company match and contribution

• Hybrid office working policy, Summer Hours, and paid time off

• Flexible Spending and Commuter programs

• Multiple Life insurance options

• Disability coverage

• Tuition Assistance

• Voluntary benefits: Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, and Legal Assistance Insurance

• Employee Assistance Program

• Family friendly benefits and a variety of employee discounts

• An array of Employee Social Networks

US Annualized Base Salary: $135,000 - 150,00 The salary offer may vary based on work experience, education, skill level, and equity. The US salary range does not align with the salary ranges in other countries when converted to the currency of that country.

Springer Nature is an Equal Opportunity Employer that complies with the laws and regulations set forth in the following poster.

At Springer Nature, our mission is to be part of progress – and that begins with inclusion: of people, perspectives, and ideas. We believe that diverse perspectives drive progress, and we are committed to creating an environment where people and ideas can flourish. If you have any access needs related to disability, neurodivergence or a chronic condition, please contact us so we can make all necessary accommodation. Find out more about our DEI work here:

For more information about career opportunities in Springer Nature please visit

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