Language Assistant (English)

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

1. Reviews and proofreads documents, reports, tables, graphics and other materials to ensure consistency with originals, completeness and correctness in respect of grammar, spelling, house style, references and cross-references, and identifies issues relating to format, formatting and font, and potential issues relating to consistent terminology, references, etc.

2. Checks proofs of publications after layout at request of originating unit, ensuring page layout, choice/size of fonts, etc. are correct and appropriate in relation to both the original and the target language.

3. Contacts professional technical, editorial, and/or translation staff to obtain clarification on specific issues and/or terminology.

4. Follows-up on identified issues with the Team Lead to ensure that revisions are included in all versions of the document, particularly in the case of documents that have received multiple corrections.

5. Processes and formats documents, reports, statistical tables, official letters and other materials from different sources, using a variety of programs and in accordance with current departmental standards; imports graphics from source files and redesigns them for insertion into the master file (which may use different software), taking into consideration the layout requirements of other languages.

6. Performs pre-processing of documents as required to support computer-assisted translation (CAT) and related processes.

7. Stores final documents in the official repository for CAT and aligns bi-texts in order to support the production of high-quality translation memories.

8. Supervises and manages performance of team, including temporary staff for governing body meetings, and assists in training and mentoring new staff.

9. Performs other related duties.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential: Completion of secondary school education or equivalent
Desirable: Completion of specialized courses in document production to prepare a variety of documents and correspondence and import documents from a variety of formats.

Experience

Essential: At least 3 years of relevant experience, including experience in WHO, or other UN system or international organization working with document production standards associated with official, governance, governing body and technical documents involving specialized formats and terminology.
Desirable: Previous experience in language services. Relevant experience in WHO or another UN agency an asset. Experience in user management would be an asset.

Skills

• Strong skills working in a team.

• Demonstrated ability in advanced word processing and desktop publishing/document production methods and practices, particularly in respect of graphics, including the latest software and related techniques.

• Good knowledge of the principles and practices associated with proof-reading and quality control.

• Knowledge of public health terminology an advantage.
  

WHO Competencies

• Teamwork

• Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences

• Communication

• Knowing and managing yourself

• Moving forward in a changing environment
  

Use of Language Skills

Essential: Expert knowledge of English. Intermediate knowledge of French.
Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of official WHO languages.