Applications are invited for the position of Website and Copy Editor for the Dictionary of Irish Biography (DIB) based at the Royal Irish Academy
Applications are invited for the position of Website and Copy Editor for the Dictionary of Irish Biography (DIB) based at the Royal Irish Academy. The Royal Irish Academy is a predominantly publicly funded institution established for the promotion of learning in the sciences and humanities across the island of Ireland.
Closing date for applications is 5 January 2024.
The role
The Website and Copy Editor will copy-edit written materials for the DIB research programme in order to improve accuracy and readability and ensure content is in accordance with DIB editorial conventions. The successful candidate will also have responsibility for updating and maintaining the programme’s website (www.dib.ie), and oversee work to improve the website’s functionality, performance and user experience. In addition, the post holder will research and write biographical entries for the DIB.
Key accountabilities
- Copy-editing entries for the DIB’s twice-yearly online updates, in line with DIB conventions
- Recording and implementing corrections and revisions to the DIB’s online corpus, in co-ordination with the Managing Editor
- Uploading new content (entries, news items, blogs) to the DIB website
- Working with web developers to implement ongoing improvements to the DIB website, to evaluate website performance and to contribute ideas for improvements to content and functionality
- Copy-editing/proofreading material for DIB commemorative, thematic and supplementary volumes
- Researching and writing entries for publication in DIB as assigned by the Managing Editor, and proposing new subjects for inclusion
- Contributing to and implementing marketing strategies for DIB content through digital and traditional media channels (e.g. email marketing, social, partnerships with other public bodies, research or history projects/publications and the press)
- Sourcing appropriate images to accompany new and existing DIB entries online
- Writing blogs and news items
- Reviewing and updating DIB editorial guidelines as required
- Engaging in outreach activities to publicise the DIB’s work
- Liaising with other members of the in-house team in research and copy-editing activities
Note: This job description is a guide to broad areas of responsibility and accountability and should not be regarded as a comprehensive listing. The job description may be subject to review in the view of new structures and / or the changing needs of the Academy.
Essential qualifications
- A degree-level qualification in a relevant discipline
- A postgraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Communications, Journalism, History, English/Irish or similar subjects)
- A minimum of three years’ experience in copy-editing academic (or similar) material
- Professional work experience editing websites and working with developers to build/redesign websites
- Broad IT and digital communications/marketing skills including image editing, email marketing, social media platforms, website performance analysis tools
- An excellent knowledge of English grammar and punctuation
- Ability to edit material with accuracy and sensitivity in line with DIB conventions
- Excellent proofreading skills
- Strong research skills, including up-to-date knowledge of hard copy and digital research tools
- Ability to liaise with internal and external contributors to DIB on copy-editing matters
- A thorough knowledge of Irish history, current affairs and cultural life
- Excellent time management skills, including the ability to keep to tight deadlines
- Attention to detail, conscientiousness, self-motivation and flexibility
Desirable qualifications
- A qualification in digital marketing or communications or similar subject area
- A record of publication in academic journals, or similar publications
- Experience editing audio material/podcast development
- Experience editing or creating visual/video material
- Proficiency in the Irish language
Further Information
Salary is on the Assistant Editor Scale €38,658 – €55,832. Candidates should note that entry will be at the minimum of the scale and the rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with government pay policy. Candidates should note that different pay and conditions may apply if, immediately prior to appointment, the appointee is a serving civil or public servant.
For further information on the position and how to apply, please see here.
