ISPM Plain English Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) Secretariat is part of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The IPPC was established to develop International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs) aimed at protecting plant health while facilitating safe international trade. The organization operates globally, with a mission to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and sustainable agriculture through effective plant protection measures. The IPPC Secretariat collaborates with various countries and organizations to ensure the implementation of these standards, thereby promoting safe trade and protecting the environment.

Job Overview:
The ISPM Plain English Specialist will serve as a consultant, primarily focusing on the application of plain language principles to complex technical and regulatory texts, specifically for draft ISPMs. The role is crucial in improving the clarity, readability, and usability of these standards for Contracting Parties, ensuring that the technical accuracy and legal meaning are preserved. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Standard setting lead of the IPPC Secretariat and will coordinate closely with Expert Working Groups (EWGs) and the CPM Bureau. This position requires a deep understanding of both the technical aspects of phytosanitary measures and the ability to communicate these effectively in plain language, making the standards more accessible to a broader audience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the ISPM Plain English Specialist include observing the work of Expert Working Groups involved in drafting ISPMs, reviewing draft standards from a plain-language perspective, and identifying barriers to comprehension. The consultant will apply plain-language principles to assess draft ISPM texts, provide evidence-based recommendations for improving readability and usability, and prepare reports summarizing observations and recommendations for the CPM Bureau. Additionally, the specialist will review draft ISPMs and provide annotated versions with clear feedback on potential improvements, as well as prepare concise analytical guidelines that highlight transferable lessons for future ISPM drafting. The role also involves liaising with the Office of Communications and Compliance (OCC) to ensure adherence to FAO standards and guidelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet specific qualifications to be considered for this position. For consultants, an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in communications, professional or scientific writing, linguistics, English literature, or a related field is required. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. For Personal Services Agreements (PSAs), a university degree or technical degree/certificate in a related field is necessary. Additionally, candidates must have a minimum of five years of proven professional experience applying plain language principles to scientific, regulatory, or policy documents, along with a working knowledge (level C) of English.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in communications, professional or scientific writing, linguistics, English literature, or a related field from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. For those applying as PSAs, a university degree or technical degree/certificate in a similar field is acceptable. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of the documents the specialist will be working with and for effectively applying plain language principles.

Experience:
Candidates should possess a minimum of five years of proven professional experience in applying plain language principles to scientific, regulatory, or policy documents. This experience is critical as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to simplify complex technical content without compromising scientific accuracy or legal intent. Familiarity with international standards, regulatory texts, and multilateral institutional processes is also highly valued, as is experience working with multidisciplinary expert groups and providing editorial or analytical support.

Languages:
A working knowledge (level C) of English is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is essential for effectively communicating and reviewing complex documents in English. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the international context of the IPPC's work.

Additional Notes:
This position is a consultancy role, which may involve a flexible contract duration depending on the specific needs of the IPPC Secretariat. The role is remote, allowing for international collaboration without the need for relocation. Candidates will be assessed based on their qualifications, experience, and ability to meet the core competencies outlined by the FAO, which include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. The position is expected to be full-time, and compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.