Lexicographer
Lexicographers write, compile and edit dictionaries for both print and online publication. They work on one of the following types of dictionary:
English language lexicographers monitor and record uses of language and use databases to interrogate a wide range of evidence. They consider both the meaning and usages of words and compile definitions in a structured manner. Lexicographers writing definitions for English learner dictionaries also take into consideration the difficulties learners have with learning English. Bilingual lexicographers translate words and expressions, rather than defining them.
Lexicographers edit, proofread and check the accuracy of their own and others' text, and perform editorial tasks. They reassess existing entries, and use evidence and judgement to identify and consider possible new entries.
The daily activities of all types of lexicographer typically include:
Additional daily activities of an English language lexicographer include:
Additional daily tasks of a bilingual lexicographer include:
Daily activities of a project manager role typically include:
Although lexicography is open to all graduates with a good honours degree, the following subjects may increase your chances:
A degree in foreign or classical languages or linguistics may increase your chances of employment as a bilingual lexicographer.
Entry without a degree or with an HND only is unlikely.
Postgraduate study is not essential, although it is possible to undertake a research degree in lexicography (MPhil or PhD) through the Dictionary Research Centre at the University of Birmingham. A Masters degree in language, linguistics or translation may be advantageous for aspiring bilingual lexicographers. Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) qualifications and experience is very likely to be a requirement for English teaching titles.
Experience of proofreading or checking text could be advantageous. This can be demonstrated through previous involvement in writing for or editing a university newspaper or work experience in publishing.
Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:
Some familiarity with older forms of English is useful for working on a historical dictionary.
As with most jobs in publishing, there are many more applicants than places, and the number of places is limited by the fact that there are only a few publishers who produce dictionaries.
As the profession is so small, networking is a very common method of job seeking. It may be possible to undertake a period of work shadowing with a publisher to get a feel for the role and to make contacts within the profession. Alternatively, it you may be able to gain work in a related role, e.g. editorial assistant, and then move in to this role as you gain publishing experience. Candidates who show aptitude for the work and a good attitude might be offered further opportunities as they arise.
For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.
Virtually all training is on the job. Training is provided in the use of the various specialist software packages and databases used by lexicographers - it is not expected that new entrants to the profession would have any prior expertise in using them. Training is also provided in the methods and procedures used in the work and the publisher’s particular house style.
Occasionally, the opportunity may arise to attend short courses in relevant areas, such as proofreading or lexicography, e.g. those offered by Lexicography MasterClass . It is often the responsibility of the individual to raise training or professional development needs with their manager. Deadlines and budgets are often tight, so there may be limited scope for training.
Some lexicographers choose to undertake a research degree in lexicography (MPhil or PhD) through the Dictionary Research Centre at the University of Birmingham. Masters courses in related subjects that include a lexicography module may also be of interest. Bilingual lexicographers may undertake a Masters degree or further research in language, linguistics or translation.
Sometimes the opportunity may arise to attend a conference with other lexicographers from around Europe, e.g. those organised by the European Association for Lexicography (EURALEX) .
Lexicography is often only part of an overall role and job titles reflect this, with a title of 'editor' being more usual than 'lexicographer'.
The typical entry-level post is as assistant editor or the slightly more junior position of editorial assistant. Most of the workload involves routinely working on dictionary entries. Depending upon ability, and with some experience, it is sometimes possible to take on responsibility for small projects.
As you gain experience, you may take on the role of editor or lexicographer. These titles are sometimes used interchangeably but may involve slightly different responsibilities. At this level, you will still spend a large proportion of your time working on dictionary entries, but will also have more input into how the title is put together, perhaps with responsibility for organising a project, coordinating a team of freelancers, and liaising with marketing and printing staff to put the book together and sell it. This work is similar to, but more specialised than, roles in the wider publishing industry.
A few people may move up into a position as a senior editor or managing editor. Only a few positions exist in this type of role and they tend to be taken by people with commercial awareness and drive. Much of the work at this level involves considering and deciding on the methodology for possible future projects.
It is common, after an in-house post, to take on some freelance work, perhaps working part time and combining this with other commitments. Freelance work also enables you to work from a different location.
It is rare for people to change employers once they become experienced. Generally, people progress by remaining with the same publisher or else move into freelance work, and new staff are recruited into entry-level positions.
It is also possible to develop a career by moving out of the narrow field of lexicography into the wider publishing industry, perhaps working on other types of reference books. Some lexicographers may move into creating and delivering training in the field.
There are very few publishers of dictionaries in the UK, and the majority of these no longer employ their own in-house teams of lexicographers. The exceptions are:
Technology has made it possible for people to do the job effectively from home and the majority of lexicographers are now freelance.
Very few publishing companies employ their own in-house teams of lexicographers and the majority of lexicographers work on a freelance basis.
If you are looking for an entry-level position, it is a good idea to send speculative applications to individual publishing companies giving details of any previous publishing experience you have.
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