Democracy Reporting International Job Summary

Job Title: English Copy Editor (m/f/d)
Job Location: Remote
Closing Date: 19 June 2026, 18:00 CET
Contract Duration: 2 years with possibility of extension
Contract Type: Freelance consultancy (framework contract)
Start Date: 1 July 2026

Job Summary

Calling Copy Editors! 📢 We’re expanding our pool of external editorial consultants and seeking a skilled English language Copy Editor to support the production of high-quality publications, research reports, policy papers, and communications materials.

Background

Democracy Reporting International (DRI) is a non-partisan, independent, not-for-profit organization registered in Berlin. DRI promotes political participation of citizens, accountability of state bodies, and the development of democratic institutions worldwide.

DRI produces a substantial volume of written outputs in English, including research reports, policy briefing papers, factsheets, web articles, newsletters, annual reports, and advocacy materials across a broad portfolio of projects.

Key Responsibilities

Core Copy-Editing Duties

Correct errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar, syntax, and style in accordance with DRI’s house style guide (British English).
Review and edit content to improve readability, ensuring complex ideas are clear and accessible.
Ensure consistency of terminology, style, and voice across multi-author documents.

Identify and flag inconsistencies in formatting, layout, headings, captions, footnotes, and cross-references.
Discuss and resolve editorial queries with authors and the Communications Coordinator.
Proofread final layouts (Word files or PDFs) prior to publication for typographical and formatting errors.

Enhanced Duties

Apply inclusive, bias-free language checks in line with DRI’s gender-sensitive language guidelines.
Review and refine drafts for stylistic coherence, tonal consistency, and adherence to DRI’s voice.
Ensure formatting complies with DRI’s visual identity guidelines.
Advise the Communications team on persistent style issues or common errors to support capacity building.

Deliverables and Timeline

Copy-edited documents returned in tracked-changes format or as agreed.
Brief editorial notes summarizing key issues, errors, and unresolved queries for longer documents.
Final proofreading sign-off before layout or print.
Turnaround times range from 2 to 12 working days depending on complexity, with occasional rush assignments.

Required Qualifications and Competencies

Native or near-native proficiency in British English.
Minimum 4 years of professional copy-editing or proofreading experience, especially in international, non-profit, policy, or journalistic contexts.
Familiarity with DRI’s house style (based on The Economist Style Guide).

Experience editing documents in social sciences, political analysis, law, governance, or human rights.
Excellent attention to detail and ability to work accurately under pressure.
Ability to work independently and manage feedback diplomatically.

Knowledge of inclusive and gender-sensitive language guidelines.
Experience editing AI-generated text is a strong advantage.
Registered freelancer or self-employed status required.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents in English via the application form by 19 June 2026, 18:00 CET:

A brief cover letter (max one page) describing editorial experience and approach.
Portfolio containing at least two recent copy-edited samples (preferably before-and-after).
Curriculum vitae or professional profile.
Financial quotation including per-word and/or net day rate in EUR (VAT included/excluded as applicable).

Selected candidates will be invited to complete a timed editing test and a virtual interview. Successful applicants will join DRI’s roster of trusted editorial consultants for ongoing assignments throughout the year.