Editors/Writers at HSRC

Minimum Requirements

1. A master’s degree in Language, Journalism, Media and Communication or extensive experience in academic writing.
2. Experience working in the social sciences and humanities is preferred.
3. At least 5 years relevant professional experience as an editor/writer of high-quality English language publications.
4. At least 3 years of experience in academic editing.
5. Proficient experience in Microsoft environment including the use of OneDrive and academic software such as RefWorks.
6. Proven experience in editing for scientific publications would be advantageous.
7. Demonstrable writing skills.
8. Some experience with relevant software (e.g. Adobe In Design and Photoshop) would be an advantage;
9. Experience in development of infographic summaries of research findings would be an added advantage.
10. Ability to provide guidance on publications for different audiences.
11. High personal motivation, self-management, and detail-orientation.
12. Temperament to cope with a pressurised, deadline driven work environment

Duties & Responsibilities

The scope of work and expectations of the Editor/Writer will include the following:

1. Editorial and writing services will include but is not limited to:
2. Content editing: Ensure the final product is professionally written, accurate and coherent.
3. Language Editing: Assess drafts for linguistic quality, including grammar, syntax, and consistent use of terminology and style; correct errors and provide a certificate attesting to the language edit if required.
4. Academic Editing: Edit theses for Masters and PhD candidates, ensuring clarity and scholarly quality.
5. Technical Editing: Ensure consistency in font, size, and formatting according to specified requirements.
6. Report and Publication Formatting: Format reports and publications according to guidelines.
7. Proofreading: Check for typos, spelling errors, formatting inconsistencies, and ensure citations and figures are accurate.
8. Summarizing: Write executive summaries of full-length reports.
9. Scientific Short Pieces: Write concise articles for public media based on published journal articles.
10. Rapporteuring: Take detailed notes during workshops and meetings, producing comprehensive or summarized reports.
11. Infographic Development: Create infographic materials that visually represent the content of reports and publications.
12. Read and understand the requirements of the writing/editing assignment paying special attention to the style and format of the intended user of the output (e.g. client report, journal article, dissertation, book chapter or workshop reports).
13. Copy-edit and proofread reports/draft papers submitted to ensure editorial quality standards for publication.
14. Liaise with authors to address any editorial amendments;