Editor (Scopist)

Summary

Responsible for editing substantially verbatim transcripts prepared by Official Reporters to produce a precise and properly formatted record of House of Representatives proceedings. Requires an understanding of legislative and parliamentary terminology. Uses computer-aided transcription (CAT) software to meet strict deadlines while adhering to House policies and procedures.

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Duties

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• Works cooperatively and courteously with colleagues and handles stress appropriately.

• Edits files prepared by Official Reporters, ensuring accuracy, required formatting, and use of proper grammar, punctuation, and style consistent with House standards, OOR practices, and the GPO Style Manual.

• Ensures the use of appropriate parliamentary language consistent with House rules and procedures to accurately reflect proceedings.

• Confirms names, quoted material, and terminology to ensure an accurate record.

• Coordinates with Official Reporters and fellow editors to resolve inconsistencies, incorporate revisions, and maintain consistency.

• Maintains working knowledge of House floor and committee operations, legislative and parliamentary terminology, and House procedures.

• Meets daily production requirements, including editing a minimum of 125 pages per day.

• Incorporates supervisory feedback, meets attendance expectations, and adjusts work hours as required by House operations, including evenings and weekends, when necessary.

• Provides professional, tactful service and supports additional OOR functions as needed.

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

• Candidate is expected to pass resume review, interview(s), and an assessment to be considered qualified.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform the duties described above and to exercise discretion and independent judgment.

• At least 5 years of experience editing verbatim transcripts is strongly preferred; equivalent experience demonstrating the ability to perform above duties may be accepted in lieu of this requirement.

• Expert knowledge of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary.

• Familiarity with legislative procedures, parliamentary terminology, and congressional operations (preferred; willingness to learn required).

• Knowledge of GPO and institutional formatting standards (preferred; willingness to learn required).

• Skill in using Windows-based systems and CAT software (preferred; willingness to learn required).

• Ability to work extended, irregular, and extended hours as required by House activity.

• Demonstrated reliability, dependability, and consistent attendance.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a national security clearance.

Additional information

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.