Background

UNDP’s Human Development Report Office requires the services of an experienced copy editor to assist in the production of a series of academic papers (5-7 papers in total) related to the 2015 Human Development Report.  The consultant will report to the Publications Coordinator and will work from an external office.

Duties and Responsibilities

The copy editor will:

  • Edit texts of a specialized or technical nature related to the 2015 Human Development Report to ensure accuracy, clarity, cohesion and conformity with UNDP and HDRO standards, policy and practice;
  • Consult with the Publications Coordinator to clarify ambiguities, ensure conformity with specific aspects of editorial policy and practice, and rectify substantive errors;
  • Check copy after layout against submitted Word file, noting any omissions, additional text, or final revisions;
  • In consultation with the Publications Coordinator, agree on specific return dates for each paper to be edited and communicate and explain any potential delays immediately to the HDRO Publications Coordinator;
  • Additional responsibilities may include writing headings and figure titles, basic fact checking;
  • Papers to be copy edited will be sent to the editor on an occasional basis throughout the year.

Deliverables:

The following deliverables will be the responsibility of the consultant, to be delivered in accordance with deadlines to be agreed for each item.

  • Final documents should be duly edited and laid-out, and be ready for printing;
  • Documents will follow a report format that will be pre-agreed with the Deputy Director, HDRO – and/or requesting officer.

Competencies

Functional Competencies:

  • Familiarity with economics and development terminology and concepts and international affairs;
  • Familiarity with the United Nations Editorial Manual and the UNDP Style Manual is an asset;
  • Demonstrated commitment to the timely delivery of projects.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

  • Master's degree or equivalent professional experience in English, journalism and other relevant areas;

Experience:

  • Minimum 5 years professional experience as an English-language editor with demonstrated experience working on academic and technical texts in international politics, economics and development;
  • Exceptional skills in grammar, spelling, punctuation, syntax and vocabulary;
  • Efficiency, accuracy, organization skills, dependability, and attention to detail;
  • Strong familiarity with economics and development terminology and concepts;
  • Familiarity with the United Nations Editorial Manual and the UNDP Style Manual is an asset;
  • Demonstrated commitment to the timely delivery of projects.

Language:

  • Fluent in English.

Evaluation of Applicants

Individual consultants will be evaluated based on a cumulative analysis taking into consideration the combination of the applicants’ qualificationsand experience and financial (fee) proposal.

Due to large number of applications we receive, we are able to inform only the successful candidates about the outcome or status of the selection process.