Language Assistant (chinese)

Organizational Context

The Department of Governing Bodies (GBS) at WHO provides strategic governance and multilateral engagement support to Member States. It ensures consistent application of protocol and health diplomacy in intergovernmental relations, coordinates governance matters, and maintains institutional memory. The Language Services Unit (LNG) within GBS delivers high-quality translation, interpretation, editing, and document production services to make WHO information accessible globally.

Job Purpose

This role supports the Language Services Unit (LNG) within WHO's Department of Governing Bodies (GBS). The primary purpose is to ensure the accuracy, consistency, and quality of official documents, reports, and publications. This involves meticulous proofreading, formatting, and processing of various materials to meet departmental standards and facilitate effective communication in multiple languages. The role contributes to the accessibility of WHO's health policies and technical information for its target audiences worldwide.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include proofreading documents, reports, tables, and graphics for accuracy in grammar, spelling, style, and references, ensuring consistency with originals. The role involves checking publication proofs after layout to verify page design and font appropriateness. It requires contacting technical, editorial, and translation staff for clarification on terminology and issues. Additionally, the position involves processing and formatting documents using various software, importing and redesigning graphics, and performing limited desktop publishing tasks. Pre-processing documents for computer-assisted translation and aligning bi-texts for translation memories are also key duties.

Work Experience

Essential: Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, preferably within WHO, the UN system, or an international organization, with a focus on document production standards for official, governance, and technical documents, including specialized formats and terminology. Desirable: Previous experience in language services, with WHO or another UN agency, and user management experience are advantageous.

Skills

Strong teamwork skills. Demonstrated ability in advanced word processing and desktop publishing/document production methods. Proficiency with the latest software and techniques for document and graphics handling. Good knowledge of proof-reading and quality control principles. Familiarity with public health terminology is an advantage. Expert knowledge of Chinese and intermediate knowledge of English are essential. Intermediate French is desirable.

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