Associate Editor

Tags: English Spanish language
  • Added Date: Thursday, 08 May 2025
  • Deadline Date: Thursday, 22 May 2025
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Contract InformationThe first year of contract will be probationary with the possibility of further extension subject to satisfactory performance

Salary InformationUS$ 55,163 net per annum, plus post adjustment (currently US$ 41,427). Salary is free of income tax in the United Kingdom

PurposeUnder the immediate supervision of the Editor (English), and the overall guidance of the Head, Editorial and Production, the incumbent will be responsible for the editorial quality and timeliness of English-language publications produced by the Publishing Service, including model courses. The Publishing Service (PUBS) publishes a wide range of materials in the six official languages of the Organization, including printed books, ebooks and online subscription services. The vast majority of these materials are offered for sale to customers worldwide

Duties and Responsibilities1. Edit copy and manuscripts for publishing products in English, as allocated by the Editor (English) – new titles, new editions of existing titles, amendments, revisions, reprints, posters, etc. Specifically: a) copy-edit manuscripts, ensuring correct grammar, spelling and consistency of editorial style; check references, titles, names, etc.; verify technical drawings and illustrations; compare text against original; propose editorial changes in manuscripts; clarify technical queries; b) update and consolidate existing titles; c) draft tables of contents, forewords, promotional texts, errata and texts for covers as necessary; d) check and mark proofs;e) perform proofreading for books, promotional materials, covers, supplements.2. Manage the editorial workflow for the publication of model courses. This entails:a) identifying freelance editors and preparing files and assignment forms; b) liaising with technical officers for technical queries from freelancer editors;c) proofreading outputs for publication to ensure that obvious errors, discrepancies or incongruities as to content, format and typography have been corrected;d) managing the work of freelancer editors, ensuring budget and deadlines are adhered to, invoices correspond to assignment forms and payments are processed timely;e) instructing graphic designer to produce covers for model courses, proofreading the covers and marking up corrections, if necessary; f) approving model courses for publication; andg) evaluating work done by freelancer editors and providing feedback.3. Manage proofreading requests from other IMO Divisions by being the main point of contact between requisitioners and external proofreaders. This includes identifying an available proofreader, preparing quotes, and project tracking through relevant databases.4. Review editorial elements that are common to publications in multiple languages (i.e. reference lists, cross-references, indexes and numbering of tables, figures and footnotes) with a view to harmonizing practices and ensuring consistency of publications across language editions.5. Produce and maintain metadata for publications, as required, and ensure that relevant data is available and correct in all systems used by the unit. 6. Ensure that all images contained in IMO publications are cleared for commercial reproduction and, if not the case, identify source and secure permission from copyright holders. This requires independently establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with internal and external contacts at several levels.7. Capture progress of projects and other data in relevant databases. Track follow-up items and requirements to help ensure progression along timelines.8. Perform other duties and tasks within the unit, as required

Required Competenciesa) High level of editorial skills with excellent ability to write in correct, clear and concise language and to proofread publications;b) Accuracy and meticulous attention to detail; c) Demonstrated ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines;d) Tact and diplomacy to work as part of a team, including in an international, cross-cultural context;e) Initiative and drive to improve processes;f) Good project management skills

ExperienceA minimum of three years of editorial professional experience in book publishing and/or editorial work in technical/legal texts in English. Experience in copy preparation and proofreading of manuscripts is essential. Experience in a similar role within the UN or international organizations would be an asset

EducationUniversity degree in publishing studies, languages, media or related disciplines is essential. Formal editing/proofreading certification would be an asset

Language SkillsProficiency in English to mother tongue standard, (written and oral), is essential, including excellent knowledge of grammar, spelling rules and publishing conventions is essential. Knowledge of French and/or Spanish would be an asset

OthersProficiency in MS Applications (especially Word) and standard editing tools is essential. Ability to learn and adapt to new IT tools and technology is essential

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