Proofreader / Copy Editor at the Bible Society of Nigeria

The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) believes the Bible is for all Nigerians. Traditionally, the work of the BSN is to make the Bible available and affordable. The Society has come to see that provision of the printed text, however well-presented, is only a part of the task. To achieve the most effective and meaningful distribution, the BSN also recognizes the need to develop programmes, using all forms of media to stimulate and facilitate encounter with the biblical text in Churches and public places. We actualize our mission through five major functions, namely: Translation, Publishing, Distribution, Programmes and Fundraising.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Proofreader / Copy Editor

Location: Mainlaind, Lagos
Employment Type: Full-time

Purpose of the Job

• Copy editor/proofreader is to assist in ensuring that texts due for publication are well written and grammatically correct.
• S/he checks basic spelling, punctuation, typographical errors, style consistency or accuracy using the original document and makes sure that the structure and content of the document are equally good.
• Performs a 'quality check' on all publications before they go to print.
• S/he will get involved in typesetting of scripture text after Typesetters have done their jobs.
• It is the proofreader's role to act as a fresh pair of eyes, spotting any mistake(s) others might have missed.

Nature and Scope of Position
The Proof Reader / Copy Editor is a Senior Staff Member of the BSN with the following responsibilities:

• Resolving queries directly with the Typesetters and translators, e.g., style and text inconsistencies.
• Spotting and correcting spelling mistakes, punctuation and grammatical errors.
• Creating artwork briefs to detail the content of illustrations.
• Ensuring that illustrations are correctly captioned and referred to in the text.
• Producing or working to a style checklist to ensure consistency in hyphenation, capitalization, formatting of references, etc.
• Sub-editing text written by a number of authors to ensure consistent house style.
• Preparing preliminary pages for the title, contents and preface of a publication.
• Ensuring that text matches the original.
• Ensuring that good editorial work has been done on materials to be published by describing the overall work done from the editorial context, design, illustration, etc. to handing over the electronic text for production.
• Ensuring that the final presentation of text, illustrations and design features of the publication are error-free and complete.
• Ensuring safekeeping, archiving and re-using of materials used for Publishing.
• Working closely with the Translation Officer(s) and Publishing Staff to ensure completeness, correctness and accuracy of all materials/items submitted for publication.
• S/he shall be responsible for the editorial work of all Publications of The Bible Society of Nigeria.
• Ensuring that spelling and style are correct and consistent.
• Ensuring that page numbers, headings and captions are correct.
• Scrutinizing documents to the minute detail in order to identify errors.
• Identifying the common proof errors that are often missed by translators.
• Using a structured proofreading process to ensure error-free copy.
• Providing necessary support to ensure that BSN newsletter is published on scheduled dates on quarterly basis, as shown below:
  • January-March edition - February 15 is the deadline.
  • April-June edition - May 15 is the deadline.
  • July-September edition - August 15 is the deadline.
  • October-December edition - November 15 is the deadline.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of First Degree in English Language, Linguistics, or Mass Communication with working knowledge in Biblical Studies (Theology) background from a recognized university.
• A minimum of 2 years experience as a translator, editor, or publishing officer in a reputable publishing organization.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• Biblical knowledge
• Versatility in I.Tskills, especially Microsoft Office.
• Tact and diplomacy for negotiating changes with translators and typesetters.
• Ability to stay focused throughout an entire document, which may be long.
• A committed Christian with deep understanding of the Bible.
• A high-level oral and written communication skill.
• A methodical working style.
• High level of concentration, accuracy, and great attention to detail.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their Curriculum Vitae (CV) and photocopies of credentials in writing to the General Secretary / CEO via: [email protected] using the job title as the subject of the email.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

Application Deadline 22nd January, 2025.