The main responsibility is to sub-edit all copy for publication, ensuring that it is in House and Leisure style and tone and that it is factually and grammatically correct. The job also entails working with the chief copy editor to ensure that deadlines are met, and with the promotions department to write text for advertorials.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:
The copy editor reports to:
• the editor (or, in her absence, the deputy editor); and
• the chief copy editor (this being the primary reporting relationship).
The copy editor also works closely with: the art department, the promotions department and the editorial department. The copy editor stands in for the chief copy editor when she/he is absent in which case the chief copy editor's job responsibilities become hers/his.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES
1) To subedit all editorial and promotional copy, which includes:
• correcting factual and language errors;
• checking style and tone;
• checking all contact details are correct;
• ensuring that all copy is as 'reader-friendly' as possible - ie, easy to understand and a pleasure to read;
• inputting requested changes accurately;
• localising copy where necessary;
• watching out for inconsistencies, contradictions and repetition;
• helping to maintain the editorial standard of excellence.
2) To make sure each page has all the necessary elements, which includes:
• checking layouts for consistency of slugs, fonts and general design style;
• trimming copy to fit layouts;
• writing captions;
• checking that all necessary bylines, credits and taillines appear;
• doing page numbers after book makeup;
• assisting the chief copy editor in compiling the stockists list;
• assisting the chief copy editor in writing the contents page.
3) Liaising with promo department, ensuring all promos are signed off without compromising house style.
4) Sub-editing classifieds each month, and liaising with directory assistant with regards to production.
5) Writing copy for the HL website each month.
6) To work with the chief copy editor in preparing documents for repro and working through final corrections with the art department.
7) Writing text for advertorials, The monthly mailer and other promotional material where needed.
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
The copy editor needs to:
• be a good team worker who can handle deadlines and work effectively under pressure;
• think clearly and creatively;
• have at least one year's experience as a copy editor;
• have an excellent knowledge of - and a love for - the English language;
• be a perfectionist and a stickler for detail;
• have a good general knowledge, to be able to handle copy on a wide variety of topics from decor, design and architecture to art and gardens;
• be proficient in InDesign and be able to use the Internet as a research tool (in a critical and informed manner) when facts need to be checked or explained
Contact Information:
For submissions: click here and search for "copy editor house and leisure"
Website: http://www.assocmags.co.za