Writer-Editor

Full Job Description

This position is in the Communications and Outreach Section, Office of the Director of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.

The position description number for this posting is 139331. The salary range indicated reflects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.

This is a non-supervisory, bargaining unit position. Relocation expenses will not be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.

Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.

Ability to communicate in writing.** Ability to edit materials for publication.** Ability to lead and direct a cooperative publishing program.** Ability to interact collaboratively with others.

Ability to plan and manage projects. Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing. Major Duties:

Researches, writes and edits materials that are complex or controversial, and read by a diverse audience. Develops and synthesizes final copy based on material submitted by others.

Critiques and rewrites manuscripts for accuracy, logic, completeness, and effective communication for the intended audience; resolving conflicts in written material so that published items are consistent with organizational mission, administrative policies, objectives, and the information program of incumbent's area of assignment.

Frequently, the submitted material requires extensive rewriting, reorganizing, and editing.

Establishes policies for style, readability, and consistency for all scripts, signage, and publications produced.

Evaluates preliminary drafts and offers suggestions to project directors, authors, and/or designers on presentation of subject matter and visuals for a target audience.

Incumbent completes all work in readable, typewritten form. Reviews manuscripts for grammar, spelling, punctuation, clarity, organization, and conformance to the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook.

Eliminates inconsistencies, inaccuracies, and erroneous matter. Uses extensive knowledge of NLSBPD mission, policies, and procedures.

Reviews written materials that explain and interpret complex policies, programs, and functions for a major agency organization, such as a Regional Office, Center, or major agency installation.

Performs a preliminary check of the written material for items such as policy issues needing further clarification, biased positions in written materials, etc.

Provides recommendations and edits changes prepared by the original authors of the materials. Persuades authors to make or accept revisions in the approach and/or content of the materials.

Checks for correct spelling, punctuation, clear and appropriate language, and proper placement of inserted material.

Checks hard copy of materials for such items as presentation quality, quality of print, spacing of headings and tables, etc.

Develops and writes information materials designed to reach selected national audiences through the news media such as wire services, radio, television, newspapers, and magazines.

Written materials include newsletters, news releases, spot radio, television announcements, fact sheets, feature stories, editorials for top agency managers, background statements, etc.

Interviews and confers with management and other program specialists to obtain latest information for use in newsletters, news releases, video news releases, radio programs, articles, and meetings with news media representatives.

Evaluates existing and proposed publications. Evaluates the impact and effectiveness of information materials designed to reach various audiences through the news media.

Designs and prepares briefing materials using a variety of communication methods. Prepares detailed statistical reports concerning the dissemination of information.

After consultation with the COS Section Head on complex, high-visibility, and high-dollar publications, establishes production schedules and ensures adherence to those schedules.

In conjunction with appropriate internal and external partners including LC Print Shop staff, recommends the best methods of printing, selection of paper and ink, and purchase of special services, ensuring the best use of publications funds.

Consults with staff concerning agency dated periodicals, advising them on matters involving coordinating with the LC Print Shop and NLS staff.

Produces graphics and visual materials for publications, while selecting the appropriate formats.

Uses knowledge of visual resources and creativity to plan and prepare graphic design presentations to appropriate program staff for final approval.

All presentations reflect the correct scale, color, photography, typography, and materials that are based on the incumbent's understanding of the objectives of the project.

For initial presentation, prepares conceptual elevations, scaled layouts, or thumbnail sketches for consultation purposes. Final designs are presented in actual format, color, material, and scale.

Performs other duties as assigned.