Proofreader & QA Specialist

Sherbet Agency; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic advertising agency in Johannesburg is seeking a Proofreader & QA Specialist. In this role, you'll ensure all content is error-free and meets client briefs, actively participating in copy checking and testing. Ideal candidates will possess 5 years of experience in proofreading, particularly in FMCG and retail contexts. Strong attention to detail and the ability to handle fast-paced agency life are essential. Interested applicants can apply by sending their CV and cover letter indicating their favorite dessert.

Qualifications

• 5 years of experience in proofreading, copy editing, or QA in an agency environment.
• Experience with proofreading FMCG and retail-related content.

Responsibilities

• Scrutinising various types of content for errors.
• Testing links and ensuring design compliance with briefs.
• Providing constructive feedback to team members.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong grammatical skills

Fact-checking

Ability to work under pressure

Education

Degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

WordPress

Monday

Job description

Sherbet Agency is a dynamic advertising agency located in Bedfordview, Johannesburg. Known for our fresh-thinking and ambitious approach, we excel in crafting innovative strategies that foster genuine engagement.

We are looking for a Proofreader & QA Specialist to be our final line of defense. You are the person who stops a typo from becoming a tweet, and a broken link from becoming a 404 disaster.

You aren’t just looking for spelling mistakes (though you spot those from a mile away). You are looking at logic, flow, formatting, and functionality. You ensure that what we promised the client in the brief is exactly what we deliver—pixel-perfect and error-free.

What you’ll be doing

1. Linguistic Perfection (The Proofreading)
   • Copy Checking: Scrutinising copy, social media posts, web copy, proposals, and internal documents for grammar, spelling, and syntax errors.
   • Tone Police: Ensuring all content aligns perfectly with the client’s unique voice and the internal Sherbet brand guidelines.
   • Fact-Checking: Verifying names, dates, stats, and claims to ensure absolute accuracy.
2. Functional Excellence (The QA)
   • Digital QA: Testing all links.
   • Design QA: checking creative layouts against the original brief. Are the fonts correct? Is the padding consistent? Does the logo have enough breathing room?
   • Brief Compliance: Double-checking that every deliverable ticks every box on the client’s request list.

Who You Are

• The Grammar Geek: You have strong opinions on the Oxford Comma and know the difference between an en-dash and an em-dash.
• The Detail Detective: You notice when a pixel is out of place or when a hyperlink leads to the wrong destination.
• The Calm in the Chaos: Agency life is fast. You can switch between checking a 50-page proposal and checking caption without losing your cool.
• The Communicator: You can give feedback to writers and designers constructively and clearly.

Requirements

• Experience: 5 years of experience in proofreading, copy editing, or QA, preferably in an agency environment.
• FMCG experience: Experience with proofreading FMCG and retail-related adverts and content.
• Tech Stack: Proficiency in Microsoft Office/Google Workspace. Familiarity with CMS platforms (WordPress) and project management tools (Monday) is a massive plus.
• Education: A degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field (or equivalent portfolio/experience).

How to Apply

Send your CV and a brief cover letter to [e-mail].

The 'Sherbet' Test: In your subject line, please include the name of your favourite dessert. (We want to know you read the whole ad!)