Associate - Editor

Position Summary (the reasons the position exists; a summary of what the position is responsible for):

The Editor provides proofreading, copyediting, and fact-checking services for paper-and-pencil and computer-delivered assessments. The Editor understands and applies test program specifications and style guides and demonstrates advanced knowledge of grammar and language skills. This role edits test materials, including items, manuscripts, typeset copy, certified copy, and printer's proofs. Additionally, the incumbent edits and proofs for style and correctness in meeting test/item specifications. This position uses specialized test creation software in performing day-to-day tasks.

Responsibilities (indicate 5-10 key responsibilities/tasks that effectively describe the position; list from most important to least important):

Proofread, edit, and fact-check a variety of test-related content and materials in a wide range of subject areas Ensure correct styles and conventions are applied to meet test specifications

Understand and follow assessment development and editorial processes and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Utilize test creation software/workflow in editing test items and materials

Serve as a resource for assessment specialists and other staff on matters of grammar, style, and syntax Adhere to schedules with all departments and communicate needs and deadlines

Create program-specific checklists to ensure quality control

Create program-specific style guides for use by editorial, support, and content staff Participate fully in group meetings and engage in all aspects of teamwork within the division Organize, track and schedule workload to meet deadlines and budget requirements.

Perform Fairness Review of test items for multiple programs, as requested

Adhere to ethical standards and comply with the laws and regulations applicable to your job function.

Process Outputs and Deliverables (From the key responsibilities above, describe the most important process outputs of the role)

100% grammatically accurate, correctly edited test and test-related materials (items, manuscripts, typeset copy, certified copy, and ), including those for innovative assessments

Items match program standards

Style guides created; consistent style applied per test specifications Facts are verified and accurate

Records maintenance Quality control

Educational/Technical Skills: 

Copy Editing Proofreading, and Substantive Editing; Understand and applies Organisation’s Fairness Guidelines; Understands and applies test program specifications and style guides; Demonstrates advanced knowledge of grammar and language skills; Adapts to changing software (or versions of software) required to perform day-to-day duties. Can effectively use IBIS to locate, review items and provide feedback and commentary in accordance with IBIS workflow needs. Knowledge of SharePoint, MS office and basic computing skills.

Process: 

Has understanding of the assessment development process from item acquisition to certified test copy. Understands the principles, conventions, terminology, and tools for stages within the process relevant to assigned work. Proposes efficiencies and innovations to improve departmental operations.

Teamwork: 

Has a track record of adding value to official or unofficial teams by actively participating in them and seeking to understand the various interests of team members. Fosters respectful relationships with internal and external colleagues. Demonstrates professionalism. Is customer-focused and sensitive to differing values, abilities and needs of staff.

Learning Agility: 

Has the ability to succeed at working on new assessments, on doing the work in new ways, on dealing successfully with ambiguity. Demonstrates the ability to quickly adapt previous work experiences and gain knowledge from others and successfully provide recommendations or a course of action in new and ambiguous situations. Can adapt to changes to policies and processes and is quick to apply new learnings in an expected or reasonable time frame.

Productivity: 

Has the ability (including problem-solving) and flexibility to adjust project plans and schedules and adapt existing processes and procedures to meet deliverables on time and with the expected quality without negatively impacting colleagues, processes, or other deliverables. Demonstrates a high level of productivity, with attention to quality. Exhibits accountability for assigned work.

Education, Certifications, or Special Licenses:

Bachelor's , or a closely related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and experience can be acquired is required.

Relevant Years of Experience Required:

1-3 years of editorial experience is required

Experience in editing test items and related materials is preferred but not required

Other Requirements (Specialized skill sets, behavioral/technical):

Thorough knowledge of current standards of English grammar, usage, and research methods, including internet searches Outstanding editorial and organizational skills

Strong writing skills and ability to make correct, effective, and concise suggestions to improve text

Ability to learn and effectively use a variety of software applications (including Organisation’s proprietary test creation software as well as third-party platforms and browsers)

Ability to adjust to changing circumstances, production flow, and direction

Ability to communicate clearly and tactfully with internal colleagues and external clients Commitment to producing an error-free product

Ability to work independently in a highly focused manner

Ability to maintain a high level of productivity and to work with ease under deadline pressure