This post is located within the Conference Services Section (CSS), Administrative Services Division (ASD) of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA)- The Editorial and Desktop Publishing Assistant reports directly to the head of unit, and will be under the overall supervision of the Chief of CSS.
Within limits of delegated authority, the Editorial and Desktop Publishing Assistant will be responsible for the following duties
- Produces camera-ready documents for reproduction by formatting complex documents in desktop publishing layout; this includes data input from audio or live dictation- Incorporates changes as marked by editors, translators and revisers, ensuring that the final version of the document conforms to, as the case may be (a) the draft translation as to contents, and/or (b) the original language manuscript as to format and typography, in accordance with existing editorial guidelines;
- Performs proof-reading functions ensuring that changes have been incorporated as marked in the draft copy and alerting the responsible authority if obvious errors or discrepancies are found in the translated text;
- Stores final text on the database;
- Participates, as member of a team, in the production of parliamentary and miscellaneous documentation, supplements and sales publications, by preparing desktop publishing layout of the final product in relevant language for reproduction in hard copy and electronic dissemination;
- Assists the Assistant Supervisor, when needed;
- Trains and guides temporary and junior staff in the processing of basic and more complex documents;
- Compiles submitted corrections and edits documents in relevant language, according to required format;
- Stays available for overtime and on-call assignments, depending on the needs of the service;
- Performs other related work as required.
Competencies
Professionalism – Knowledge of editorial practices and desktop publishing, including typographic standards; proficiency in the language of the unit and in United Nations terminology; knowledge of United Nations structure and rules of procedure of various organs, including documents production system; shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.
Communication – Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
Teamwork – Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Work Experience
Five years of experience in desktop publishing, including draft typing, copy editing, proof-reading and typographical layout or related area.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat- Arabic is also a working language of ESCWA- For the post advertised, fluency in oral and written Arabic and English is required- Knowledge of French is desirable.
Assessment Method
Short-listed candidates will undergo a written assessment related to the functions of the post and a competency-based interview- Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Special Notice
This position is for local recruitment- External applicants will be considered only if no suitable internal candidates are found.
Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her- In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers In accordance with established rules and procedures.
United Nations Considerations
The United Nations shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs- (Charter of the United Nations – Chapter 3, article 8)- The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.
employment-escwa@un.org
