Language and Desktop Publishing Assistant

Organizational context

This role is within the Strategic Communications Section of the UN Secretariat's Department of Political and Peace building Affairs and Department of Peace Operations. The department's mandate is to prevent and resolve conflict through inclusive political solutions, while the other department provides direction to UN peacekeeping operations globally. This position reports to the Chief of Unit.

The Language and Desktop Publishing Assistant supports the Strategic Communications Section by performing essential desktop publishing, proofreading, and data management functions. This role ensures the accurate and timely production of documents, social media content, and website materials in English and French. The assistant will incorporate corrections, format content according to guidelines, and align bi-texts to improve translation memory. They will also assist in managing workflow, processing documentation, and maintaining databases for field missions.

The position contributes to effective information sharing, knowledge management, and the overall communication objectives of the departments, requiring adaptability to various work modes and potential overtime.

Perform desktop publishing for documents, social media, and website content in English and French, incorporating corrections and formatting. Conduct proofreading by comparing successive versions of documents and digital content. Assist Public Information Officers with work planning, distribution, and monitoring progress from field missions. Ensure smooth electronic transmission and processing of documentation. Compile and scope final documents against submissions. Align bi-texts to support translation memory improvements.

Input and assist in analyzing data from field missions for presentations and reports. Collaborate on office support, administrative, and clerical functions. Handle queries from departments and field missions, maintaining process documents and records. Undertake cross-assignments for language support and translation between English and French. Apply and learn relevant language technologies and tools. Be available for assignments outside normal working hours and work effectively in hybrid teams.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position.

A minimum of three years of experience in desktop publishing or a related field is required. This includes draft typing, copy editing, translating, proofreading, and creating typographical layouts. Experience managing professional digital and social media accounts internationally, producing digital material for multiple platforms, and working with UN peacekeeping operations is also required. Experience with data analysis and presentation is desirable.

Professionalism, communication, planning and organizing, desktop publishing, proofreading, data management, language proficiency (English and French), knowledge of UN terminology and structure, adaptability, and willingness to learn new software.

English, French