Editorial and Desktop Publishing Assistant (English/French)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is dedicated to delivering ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, guided by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 206

• Established to address the continent's challenges, UNECA operates with a mission to provide macroeconomic and structural policy options, innovative financing models, and solutions to regional challenges, while advocating for Africa's position in global governance. The organization emphasizes knowledge sharing and collaboration to enhance economic diversification and job creation across the continent.

Job Overview:
The Editorial and Desktop Publishing Assistant will play a crucial role in the Editorial and Desktop Publishing Unit (EDPU) within the Publication and Conference Management Section (PCMS) of UNECA. This position requires proficiency in both English and French, as the assistant will be responsible for producing camera-ready documents, ensuring accuracy in proofreading, and maintaining high standards in desktop publishing. The role involves collaborating with a team to prepare parliamentary and miscellaneous documentation, managing the layout of final products, and ensuring that all manuscript elements are correctly formatted and cross-linked. The assistant will also be tasked with storing final texts in the United Nations Official Document System (ODS) and assisting with data analysis and presentations, making this position integral to the effective dissemination of information within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Editorial and Desktop Publishing Assistant include producing camera-ready documents through typing, transcribing, editing, and formatting. The assistant will perform proofreading functions to ensure accuracy in document versions, check numerical data, and correct errors in content and format. They will participate in the production of documentation in both English and French, compile corrections, and store final texts in the ODS. The assistant will also align bi-texts for translation memory production, create and maintain macros and templates, and train junior staff. Additional responsibilities include assisting with data collection and analysis, updating information materials, and performing other related tasks as required. The role may require overtime and on-call assignments based on service needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional formal training in desktop publishing or a related field being highly desirable. A minimum of five years of experience in desktop publishing or a related field is required, including skills in draft typing, copy editing, formatting, and creating typographical layouts. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum experience requirement is reduced to three years. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also desirable, showcasing the need for a well-rounded skill set in both publishing and data management.

Educational Background:
The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational qualification. Additional formal training in desktop publishing or a related field is highly desirable, indicating that candidates with specialized education will have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The role necessitates a minimum of five years of relevant experience in desktop publishing or a related field. This experience should encompass draft typing, copy editing, formatting, and creating typographical layouts. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the required experience is reduced to three years. Furthermore, having at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related area is considered desirable, emphasizing the importance of analytical skills in this position.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and French is mandatory for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered desirable, which could enhance the candidate's profile and ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office, regardless of their nationality. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and organizational needs. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.