with a strong understanding of curriculum requirements, teaching and learning processes, and educational publishing.
Our ideal candidates must be meticulous, with excellent attention to detail and the ability to undertake content editing,
copy editing, structural editing and proofreading of educational materials. They must be able to manage multiple book
projects simultaneously, work effectively under pressure and meet strict publishing deadlines. Candidates should also
demonstrate strong communication, research, problem-solving, organisational and computer skills.
Job Summary
- Employer: secondarybookpress
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Editing
- Closing Date: 2026-09-13
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out content editing, copy editing, structural editing and proofreading of manuscripts and designed books.
- Ensure content is accurate, age-appropriate and aligned with approved curricula and syllabi.
- Check grammar, spelling, punctuation, consistency, activities, assessments, illustrations, diagrams and tables.
- Work closely with authors, designers, illustrators and other stakeholders throughout the publishing process.
- Commission and guide authors, ensuring manuscripts meet agreed specifications and deadlines.
- Conduct research and fact-check content for accuracy and relevance.
- Manage multiple manuscripts and projects while meeting production schedules.
- Review designed proofs and identify editorial, content and design-related errors before publication.
- Maintain editorial records and project documentation and perform other duties assigned by management.
Requirements
- A relevant degree or diploma from a recognised college or university.
- Vast teaching experience in the relevant learning area or subject.
- Strong knowledge of curriculum and syllabus requirements.
- Excellent command of the English Language.
- Knowledge of content editing, copy editing, structural editing and proofreading.
- Strong research and fact-checking skills.
- Ability to multi-task, meet deadlines and work under pressure.
- Computer literacy, particularly proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Experience in educational publishing or development of teaching and learning materials is an added advantage.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for an Editor role at a secondary book press in Zimbabwe?
A degree in English, Linguistics, or a relevant subject is usually essential. Many employers also prefer candidates with a teaching qualification or experience with the ZIMSEC secondary school curriculum.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
Editors review manuscripts for grammatical accuracy and alignment with national educational standards. They also coordinate with subject matter experts and authors to ensure content is pedagogically sound.
What does the career progression look like for editors in the Zimbabwean publishing industry?
Entry-level editors can progress to Senior Editor or Commissioning Editor roles. Some eventually move into editorial management or transition into freelance consultancy for various educational publishers.
What benefits can I expect from a publishing house in Zimbabwe?
Standard packages typically include annual leave and contributions toward a pension fund. Some employers may also offer medical aid or transport allowances depending on the company's size.
How should I apply, and what do Zimbabwean employers look for in a portfolio?
Submit a professional CV and a cover letter highlighting your familiarity with secondary school textbooks. Employers value a portfolio that demonstrates a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of local curriculum requirements.
