HSRC Language Editors

Job Advert Summary

The HSRC produces leading-edge policy research, through engaged scholarship, to utilise in understanding and explaining social conditions and informing social change for inclusive growth in communities. Dissemination of research findings and promotion of research activities are done through various public events, including conferences, workshops, launches, public dialogues and seminars.

The Communication and Engagement (C&E) unit is responsible for translating and communicating HSRC research to diverse local and international audiences. This includes managing publications, digital and media platforms, public engagement activities, and the HSRC’s overall content and brand presence to ensure accessible, consistent and impactful communication.

The HSRC Review is the organisation’s quarterly publication, available online, and aimed at a broad, informed audience including policymakers, academics, funders, and the public. Articles are written in clear, accessible English for non-specialist readers.

Minimum Requirements

The candidates are expected to have demonstrated professional editing experience.

In addition:

• Minimum: Matric with English Home Language
• At least 3 years’ professional editing experience
• Strong ability to edit complex or academic content for public audiences
• Experience in journalism, publishing, or magazine subediting preferred
• High level of accuracy, judgement, and editorial integrity
• Strong self-management and attention to detail

Application Procedure

In your application, please include:

• Letter of motivation
• Detailed CV with proof of qualifications
• At least two recent reference letters
• Two contactable references
• Three examples of editing work
• Reference number as listed in this advert

Duties and Responsibilities

The scope of work and expectations of the Language Editors will include:

• Language editing of the Word version of the HSRC Review (±10,000–25,000 words)
• Editing for grammar, clarity, structure, tone, and consistency
• Substantive editing to improve readability and accessibility for a general audience
• Refining content to optimal length while preserving meaning and accuracy
• Writing or refining headlines and selecting pull quotes where required
• Reviewing graphics and accompanying text for clarity and alignment with content
• Fact-checking key claims, data points, and references to ensure accuracy and prevent the unintentional inclusion of unverified information
• Identifying and flagging potentially controversial, sensitive, or reputationally risky statements that are not adequately supported by evidence or sources
• Ensuring coherence and logical flow across the publication
• Liaising with the editorial team on queries and revisions