Lead Editorial Assistant

Contract InformationThe first year of contract will be probationary with the possibility of further extension subject to satisfactory performance. This post is limited to local status* only. *Local status requires applicants to have unhindered permission to live and work in the UK

Salary InformationApproximately £40,487 net per annum, (subject to deductions), free of income tax in the UK. Excellent benefits including medical insurance and UN pension scheme

PurposeThe post of Lead Editorial Assistant in the Russian Translation Section is a critical technical role supporting the production and finalisation of multilingual documentation, directly contributing to the delivery of IMO’s official outputs in one of its working languages. The incumbent independently prepares, formats and finalises a wide range of official documents and publications in Russian, using advanced tools such as Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, Adobe InDesign, and the Organization’s document management system (gDoc 2.0)

Duties and Responsibilities1. Prepare Russian-language versions of IMO publications and official documents using Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, Adobe Illustrator and other relevant software, ensuring that layout, formatting and paragraph numbering match the source text. This includes processing infographics and other visual content to reflect the original format.2. Independently proofread and verify complex and lengthy Russian texts for consistency with the source, checking grammar, punctuation, syntax, spelling, terminology, references and formatting, in accordance with IMO editorial guidelines.3. Finalize documents in PDF or other required formats for official issuance in print and/or electronic form, following established publishing procedures.4. Use internal systems, such as gDoc 2.0, the Organization’s document management system, to apply editorial and linguistic corrections, and format and finalize documents, incorporating all editorial and linguistic corrections and ensuring proper version control.5. Format and process a wide range of documentation, including resolutions, circulars, annexes and publications, some involving complex layouts, tables or multilingual content, using standard templates and formatting rules.6. Plan and prioritize assigned tasks, estimate time and resource requirements, and complete document processing independently in high volumes and against tight deadlines.7. Ensure that all elements of the source text—including cross-references, footnotes, citations, tables and annexes—are accurately reflected in the Russian version. Liaise with editors, translators and revisers to resolve inconsistencies or omissions, making informed proposals when discrepancies arise.8. Review updated source documents against earlier translations, identify reused content, and prepare consolidated Russian drafts by integrating existing translations and highlighting new content for translation.9. Conduct terminology and reference checks using official sources and established IMO usage to ensure alignment with adopted texts and consistent application of terms.10. Convert documents between formats (Word, PDF, etc.) and perform quality control checks on formatting and completeness prior to processing or publication.11. Align bilingual documents using eLUNa to support translation memory development and consistency in computer-assisted translation workflows.12. Provide technical guidance and support to temporary staff and interns on proofreading and formatting standards, document templates, internal systems and workflows.13. Assist the Editorial Coordination Associate with administrative tasks, such as preparing monthly statistics, tracking submissions and completions, and maintaining leave records. In their absence, support the daily coordination of the Section.14. In the absence of the Editorial Coordination Associate, deputize in managing the day-to-day coordination of the Section’s document processing activities, including tracking submissions, preparing statistical reports and supporting administrative follow-up.15. Carry out tasks with a high level of autonomy, resolve routine processing issues, and contribute to improvements in formatting procedures, workflows and file management.16. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Russian Translation Section and the delivery of multilingual documentation

Required CompetenciesThoroughness and attention to detail, ensuring accuracy of output.Ability to organize and prioritize tasks and high volume of work under pressure to tight deadlines.Sense of initiative and ability to work independently.Teamwork and demonstrated ability to deputize for the Editorial Coordination Associate, in managing day-to-day operational tasks.Demonstrated training skills.Positive attitude, flexibility and willingness to work late hours, even at short notice.Ability to work in a multicultural environment and to establish working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, at all levels

ExperienceAt least six years of relevant professional experience in processing meeting documents, editing and proofreading is essential. Experience in deputizing for / covering a senior staff member would be an asset. Understanding of the use of computer-assisted translation tools would be an asset. Experience in similar work in an international organization or within the UN system would be an asset. Experience in providing training or guidance on work procedures would be an asset

EducationSecondary education or equivalent to university entrance standard

Language SkillsNative level of Russian both written and oral with excellent knowledge of syntax, punctuation, orthographic rules and stylistic conventions, and complete proficiency in English (both oral and written) are both essential. Working knowledge of any other official UN language would be an asset

OthersExcellent proofreading and formatting skills are required. Proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Adobe Acrobat, etc.) is essential. Good understanding of computer-assisted translation programs such as eLUNA, SDL Trados, or similar platform would be an advantage. Proficiency or familiarity with industry-standard software for desktop publishing and design would be highly advantageous