Assistant Editor

Job Title

Assistant Editor

Agency

Texas A&M Transportation Institute

Department

Proposal & Editorial Services

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Bryan, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

COVID-19 information: TTI monitors and updates our recruiting, hiring and onboarding processes to align with local, state and federally mandated health guidelines to keep employees, prospective employees, and visitors as safe as possible. To ensure a safe and healthful work environment for all, each department has established both remote and in-person procedures for conducting these processes, which include sanitizing common spaces, a mask policy, and maintaining safe physical distancing to the extent possible. Departments will communicate these procedures at each step of the recruiting process.

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Job Summary:

The Assistant Editor will be responsible for general editorial tasks including detailed technical editing, proofreading, desktop publishing file comparisons, application of editorial styles, consistent writing style, and grammar and clarity checks. Expert assistance in using Microsoft Office Word. Expert assistance in file conversion to portable document format (PDF) files. Knowledge and assistance in compliance with electronic accessibility requirements for document files. Maintaining accurate files, records, and tracking to document tasks performed. Related tasks as assigned. Continued employment in this position is contingent upon availability of funding and satisfactory performance.

Essential Duties:

• Editorial tasks: Edit technical reports and other written materials in both hard-copy form and using electronic in-file markups. Use customized specifications or standard edit practices, apply editing knowledge, and provide sound reasoning to indicate necessary and suggested changes. Perform proofreading, file comparisons, application of editorial styles, consistent writing style, and grammar and clarity checks. Other editorial duties as needed. 40%

• Expertise and assistance in use of Microsoft Word: Assist with formatting documents, compatibility issues, and conversion to portable document format (PDF) files. Conduct trainings if needed. 15%

• Expert assistance in file conversion to portable document format (PDF) files: Assist with file conversion to portable document format (PDF) files including attention to interaction, linking, electronic accessibility, and format. 5%

• Compliance of document files with electronic accessibility requirements: Assist with electronic accessibility compliance, issues, and techniques regarding document files. 5%

• Processing, tracking, and documenting work performed: Use spreadsheets, databases, files, and other methods to document and track tasks performed. Develop and implement methods and processes when needed. 10%

• Design and format of technical documents: Provide formatting recommendations and assistance for technical documents laid out in Microsoft Word files. 20%

• Other duties as assigned: Perform other tasks applicable to team and position. 5%

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, English, or technical editing/writing, or equivalent combination of education and experience (HS Diploma + 4 YOE OR Master’s Degree + 0 YOE)

• 2 years of related work experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent and accurate use of English language.

• Familiarity with editorial styles, including but not limited to Associated Press Stylebook and The Chicago Manual of Style .

• Proficient in use of personal computers and standard software packages.

• Proficient in use of Microsoft Office software.

• Have a valid Texas driver license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in English, or technical editing/writing.

• Proven editing experience with a technical emphasis, including but not limited to a college-level technical editing course.

• Certification in Microsoft Office use.

• Expert level certification in Microsoft Word software.

• Experience with content management software (e.g., WordPress) or similar application.

• Experience with online marketing/formatted email management applications (e.g., Constant Contact or MailChimp).

• Writing experience, including developing web content.

• Skills in layout and production of documents.

• Certified specialization in technical editing/writing.

Physical Requirements :

• Ability to perform common office functions.

• Ability to frequently communicate with other individuals within the workplace.

• Ability to operate a computer and other office productivity machinery.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/AffirmativeAction/Veterans/Disability Employer committed to diversity.