Copy Editor
Edit and proofread publications for quality and consistency
Overview
Edit and proofread publications for quality and consistency
You have:
- At least 5 years of relevant work experience
- Fluency in English and French is essential
- University degree in translation, linguistics, literature or other relevant degree
- A University degree in a subject related to the Environment will also be accepted with proven copyediting experience
- Advanced degree in relevant subject would be an asset
- Proven written communication skills
- Basic understanding of the international context and the work of UNEP and its Disasters and Conflicts sub-programme
- Experience in copyediting technical publications relating to environmental issues is an advantage
Result of Service Review and edit publications, improving the style, fixing punctuation, spelling, and grammar mistakes. The copyeditor will be expected to work with the relevant supervisor to ensure that the copyedited document adheres to our high-quality standards and is of publishable quality.
Work Location Home based
Expected duration Between 1 February 2022 to 1 February 2023
Duties and Responsibilities UNEP’s Disasters and Conflicts Branch extends UNEP's work in areas of the world where the natural and human environment have been damaged from conflicts or disasters. Specialized environmental expertise is provided to rapidly identify risks to health, livelihoods and ecosystem services and to integrate environmental needs within the recovery process. UNEP/D&C promotes sustainable management of natural resources in conflict and disaster affected countries and demonstrates to decision makers the importance of natural resources management as a precondition for sustainable development and as an instrument for peace building and disaster risk reduction. Since 1999, the team has conducted field operations in over 40 countries and works in close cooperation with the humanitarian, development and peace building frameworks of the UN system.
A copy editor is needed to edit and rewrite a number of publications and other products related to UNEP/D&C’s work (in English and French).
The following outputs/deliverables are required depending on the specific need of the relevant report or publication:
- Provide a copyedited version of the report, including all captions and text embedded in images/infographics
- Finalize the copyedited version, subject to comments and feedback from the designated supervisor
Selected candidates will undertake the copyediting of reports, documentation or other, as required.
1. Copyedit reports and other publications (giving attention to grammatical consistency, spelling and usage) 2. Ensure that copyedited documents have a uniform style and tone 3. Work with the designated supervisor to finalize the copyedited documents, where necessary 4. Submit finalized report
Qualifications/special skills Competency: - Ability to deliver timely and high-quality results within tight deadlines - Excellent coordination skills - Very high level of attention to detail - Full computer literacy - Strong organizational ability - Ability to work independently from home
Academic Qualifications: - University degree in translation, linguistics, literature or other relevant degree. A University degree in a subject related to the Environment will also be accepted with proven copyediting experience. - Advanced degree in relevant subject would be an asset.
Experience: - At least 5 years of relevant work experience - Proven written communication skills - Basic understanding of the international context and the work of UNEP and its Disasters and Conflicts sub-programme. - Experience in copyediting technical publications relating to environmental issues is an advantage.
Language: - Fluency in English and French is essential
No Fee THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.
Potential interview questions
| Describe a time when you had to meet a tight deadline while editing a document. | This assesses your ability to manage time and prioritize tasks effectively. | Provide an example demonstrating your organizational skills and how you ensured quality under pressure. |
| How do you ensure attention to detail in your editing work? | This question evaluates your approach to maintaining high standards in your work. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you provide an example of a challenging document you edited and how you approached it? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What strategies do you use to maintain a consistent tone across various publications? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Why is understanding the subject matter important in copyediting? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |