UNESCO WWAP French and Spanish Editorial Consultant
Organizational Context
The UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP), in collaboration with the Government of Italy, produces the United Nations World Water Development Report (UN WWDR). This initiative aims to provide timely and reliable information on water resources development and management to UN Member States and the international community. The program supports the 2027 edition of the UN WWDR, focusing on the theme "Water and Health."
Job Purpose
This role supports the 2027 edition of the UN World Water Development Report (UN WWDR), focusing on "Water and Health." The consultant will manage editorial processes, oversee translations, perform copyediting, and conduct proofreading to ensure adherence to UNESCO standards and production timelines. Responsibilities include managing the French edition's editorial and layout process, including liaising with translation services and graphic designers. Additionally, the role involves copyediting and proofreading the French version of the report and related materials, ensuring linguistic accuracy, coherence, and compliance with UN editorial standards. Support will also be provided for the Spanish version of the UN WWDR 2027, ensuring consistency and quality throughout the production cycle.
Responsibilities
Manage the editorial and layout process for the French edition of the UN WWDR 2027, including preparing terms of reference for translation services and advising on the selection of translation companies. Transmit final English texts with clear instructions for translation and serve as the primary contact for translation companies, addressing all terminology and technical queries. Liaise with graphic designers to ensure the French layout adheres to the English template, incorporating all corrections after proofreading and finalizing the French version on schedule. Submit ready-to-print French files according to the production calendar. Copyedit and proofread the French edition of the UN WWDR 2027 and related materials, ensuring linguistic accuracy, coherence, and compliance with UNESCO/UN editorial standards. Verify technical and referential consistency, ensuring accurate translation and formatting of all elements. Proofread the layout version against the approved manuscript, correcting errors and ensuring uniformity. Review typography and layout for visual quality and consistency. Provide editorial and production support for the Spanish version of the UN WWDR 2027, transmitting English texts with precise instructions to partner institutions and acting as the main liaison for translation and proofreading. Ensure the Spanish translated text is complete and accurate, coordinate corrections, and liaise with graphic designers for layout conformity.
Work Experience
Proven experience in editing and proofreading scientific publications, books, and reports, particularly on environmental affairs and water resources management. Experience with technical document editing and layout coordination is required. Familiarity with UN and UNESCO style guides and editorial standards is essential. Ability to manage concurrent workflows and meet tight deadlines is crucial.
Skills
Excellent communication, accountability, and innovation skills. Ability to share knowledge and continuously improve. Strong planning and organizational capabilities. Focus on results and effective teamwork are essential. Excellent grammatical, stylistic, and organizational skills in French and Spanish.