Job Descriptions

Lexicographer Job Description

What is the job description of a Lexicographer? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Lexicographer? What does a Lexicographer do?

Job description of a Lexicographer

Lexicographers write, compile and edit dictionaries for both print and online publication. Lexicographers edit, proofread and check the accuracy of their own and others’ text, and perform editorial tasks. They reassess existing entries and use evidence and judgement to identify and consider possible new entries.

This Lexicographer job description example includes the list of most important Lexicographer duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Lexicographer profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Lexicographer Duties and Responsibilities

Lexicographer job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Research and identify new words that are in common usage for inclusion in the dictionary
  • Create new entries using accurate and succinct definitions
  • Check and proofread entries
  • Make sure that the style and format of words is in strict accordance with previously agreed protocols
  • Translate words and expressions in both directions (as a bilingual lexicographer).
  • Accurately represent the various meanings of new and existing words
  • Assess which meaning of a word is the primary (most used) meaning and which meanings are secondary or less commonly used
  • Review and edit existing definitions

Lexicographer Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Lexicographer job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A degree in English language
  • An excellent command of English and, for bilingual lexicographers, relevant foreign language expertise
  • A practical understanding of the mechanics of grammar and the ability to use grammar correctly, identifying instances of incorrect usage
  • An excellent eye for detail, both for spotting errors and for identifying inconsistencies of presentation style
  • Team working and communication skills
  • Effective time management and organisational skills
  • The ability to work rapidly and logically with complex information
  • The ability to describe complex things in a few words, and for English language lexicographers, the ability to recognise subtle differences between meanings, an appreciation of how English is used in other English-speaking countries and an appreciation of the difficulties of learning English
  • Confidence in using a range of specialist software, such as corpus-querying software, dictionary-writing software and WordPress
  • An understanding of SEO and how websites can increase their traffic and engage with users.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Lexicographer starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Lexicographer job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Lexicographer may also reference it in preparation for the interview.