Layout & Design Sub Editor

Job description

• To provide an overall layout & design function and handle all aspects of copy editing
• Producing high-quality layout and design that is structured well with good story-telling techniques
• Taking ownership of pages and/or applying page designs, and creating page layouts based on knowledge of layout principles and aesthetic design concepts.
• Styling of typography, placing and etching of images
• Assisting with content accuracy and strong headlines
• Working within the framework of design guidelines
• Making the content fit in the most visually pleasing way
• Applying a good understanding of legal, ethical, and copyright issues
• Troubleshooting technical issues
• Managing production requirements for assigned pages, including copy flow, managing artwork, providing layout, and applying typography principles
• Understanding pre-press printing requirements and ensuring adherence to deadlines.
• Ensuring that pages are completed on time and potential delays are avoided.
• Proofing pages for title editor, and content manager
• Applying corrections to content, and passing pages.
• Soft proofing pages
• Translation of copy
• Providing feedback to editorial production leadership

• Relevant tertiary qualification in journalism , layout, design or equivalent
• Must have more than 5 years of experience as a layout and copy sub-editor in a newspaper environment
• Must have an excellent understanding of the Isolezwe & Isolezwe  Weekend content requirements
• Excellent command of English and isiZulu
• Excellent knowledge of all software in the production process
• Must be well-versed in Journalistic Principles, Ethics & Media law
• Advanced knowledge of Google applications (Email, sheets, docs, etc.)
• Well-developed news sense and excellent general knowledge

• Excellent communication skills (both written and oral)
• Good listening skills
• Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure
• Ability to work alone and as part of a team
• Possesses copy-editing skills
• Excellent planning and organisation skills
• Excellent problem-solving ability
• Meticulous attention to detail
• High organisational and team commitment
• Knowledge of all software required in the production process
• Ability to handle multiple articles and pages
• Ability to cobble (merge) text, manage images and visualise pages