Plain Language/Easy Read Editor (Short-term Retainer)
A Plain Language/Easy Read Editor under a short-term retainer contract with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), based in Suva, Fiji. The position is part-time with a maximum of 130 working days over one year. Below is a detailed breakdown of the job, including its background, responsibilities, expected outcomes, required qualifications, and other relevant details.
1. Background and Organizational Contexthttp://UNDP Plain Language/Easy Read Editor Job
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network of the United Nations (UN). It works in over 170 countries and territories to help eliminate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience to crises. UNDP focuses on sustainable development, democratic governance, peacebuilding, and climate resilience.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at UNDP
UNDP emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as core principles. It aims to ensure that all employees and partners feel empowered to contribute to its mission. The organization follows a “leave no one behind” approach, meaning it prioritizes marginalized and underserved populations. This commitment extends to its hiring policies, encouraging applications from people who identify as belonging to excluded groups.
Ethical Standards and Policies
UNDP upholds a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse, and discrimination. Candidates must undergo rigorous reference and background checks before hiring.
Electoral Support in the Pacific@vacancyspaces.com
The UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji provides technical and operational support to Election Management Bodies (EMBs) through various election projects. The Plain Language/Easy Read Editor will work under the Pacific Elections Assistance Program (PEAP) and the Voter Outreach for Transparent Elections (VOTE) Fiji project.
Pacific Elections Assistance Program (PEAP) – Key Goals:
- Strengthening the institutional capacity of Election Management Bodies.
- Supporting transparent and accountable electoral processes.
- Enhancing civic engagement and professional development for democratic institutions.
Voter Outreach for Transparent Elections (VOTE) Fiji – Key Goals:
- Developing civic and voter education materials to increase public participation.
- Creating youth-focused election curricula to improve awareness.
- Improving operational procedures to enhance election efficiency.
- Enhancing election security measures and preparedness.
This work aligns with the UNDP Multi-Country Program Document (2023-2027), the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), and the Country & Regional Program Documents (CPD & RPD).
2. Job Role & Responsibilities
The Plain Language/Easy Read Editor will be responsible for reviewing, revising, and simplifying electoral documents. The goal is to make operations manuals and outreach materials clear, accessible, and easily understandable for diverse audiences, including people with low literacy levels or disabilities.
Main Responsibilities:
- Review and Revise Operations Manuals:
- Assess and edit existing election operations manuals.
- Improve language clarity, readability, and accessibility.
- Ensure documents align with plain language and easy-read principles.
- Create Standardized Templates for Future Elections:
- Develop structured, user-friendly templates for election-related documents.
- Ensure materials follow best practices and are easy to use.
- Work with a graphic designer to ensure visually accessible layouts.
- Ensure Accessibility & Provide Training:
- Adapt documents for individuals with reading difficulties or disabilities.
- Conduct training sessions on plain language principles for election officials.
- Implement Quality Assurance Measures:
- Evaluate and test revised manuals to ensure clarity and effectiveness.
- Revise materials based on user feedback and testing results.
- General Editing & Proofreading Support:
- Edit additional public and corporate documents as required.
- Ensure all communications align with Fiji Elections Office (FEO) and UNDP standards.
3. Expected Outcomes & Impact
The work of the Plain Language/Easy Read Editor is expected to:
- Improve transparency and efficiency in electoral administration.
- Reduce procedural errors by making instructions clearer.
- Increase accessibility for people with diverse literacy levels.
- Enhance public trust in electoral processes.
By simplifying voter education materials, the project will help citizens make informed decisions and increase electoral participation.
4. Required Qualifications & Skills
Education Requirements:
- Master’s Degree in Languages, Journalism, or a related field OR
- Bachelor’s Degree + 7 years of experience in editing and plain language writing.
Experience Requirements:
- Minimum 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of editing experience.
- Proven experience in plain language and easy-read editing for technical documents.
- Strong knowledge of accessibility standards and inclusive communication.
- Background in government communication, civic education, or voter outreach.
- Training/facilitation skills related to plain language editing.
Language Requirements:
- Fluency in English (both written and spoken).
5. Core Competencies & Skills
General Competencies:
- Achieve Results – Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Think Innovatively – Identify new ways to improve electoral communication.
- Learn Continuously – Adapt to new challenges and best practices.
- Act with Determination – Overcome obstacles to achieve high-impact outcomes.
- Engage & Partner Effectively – Work collaboratively with different stakeholders.
- Promote Diversity & Inclusion – Ensure materials are accessible to all communities.
Technical & Cross-Functional Competencies:
- Advocacy & Communication Strategy – Ability to develop impactful messaging.
- Customer Satisfaction & Client Management – Understand and meet user needs.
- System Thinking – Recognize how different processes interact in electoral systems.
- Decision Making – Make informed, timely decisions within project guidelines.
- Partnership Management – Build relationships with government agencies & stakeholders.
6. Contract & Hiring Process
- Position Type: International Personnel Service Agreement (IPSA-10).
- Contract Duration: 1 year (up to 130 days of work).
- Location: Home-based (some coordination with the Fiji Elections Office).
- Vacancy Timeline: 1 week (Application deadline: February 18, 2025).
Additional Hiring Information:
- U.S. Permanent Residents must switch to a G-4 visa if selected.
- UNDP may retain applications for future roles with similar requirements.
- No application fees – UN warns against recruitment scams.
7. How to Apply & Next Steps
To apply, visit the official UNDP careers portal and submit:
- Updated CV/resume.
- Cover letter detailing relevant experience.
- Samples of previous plain language/easy-read editing work.
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Emphasize experience in plain language editing & accessibility.
- Highlight work with government institutions or voter education projects.
- Show training experience in communication or editing.
Final Thoughts
This role is an excellent opportunity for experienced editors passionate about clear communication and democratic processes. By simplifying complex electoral materials, the Editor will play a crucial role in promoting voter engagement and electoral integrity in Fiji and the Pacific region.
That’s a very detailed breakdown already, but I can certainly expand further by elaborating on additional aspects of the job, the role’s importance, the broader impact on democratic governance, and insights into UNDP’s global mission and values.
Plain Language/Easy Read Editor (Short-term Retainer) – Detailed Analysis
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has posted a job vacancy for a Plain Language/Easy Read Editor to support its electoral assistance work in Suva, Fiji. This part-time, short-term role (maximum 130 working days over one year) aims to enhance the clarity, accessibility, and usability of electoral operations manuals and public outreach materials.
The goal is to ensure that election-related documents are easily understood by a wide range of stakeholders, including election officials, voters, and marginalized communities. This role is especially important in fostering transparency, reducing errors, and improving the overall efficiency of electoral processes in Fiji and the Pacific region.
This document provides a comprehensive exploration of the job, the responsibilities involved, the impact on democratic governance, and the broader significance of UNDP’s electoral assistance efforts worldwide.
1. Understanding UNDP’s Role in Electoral Support
What is UNDP?
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s leading organization for international development. It works in over 170 countries and territories to fight poverty, build democratic institutions, and promote sustainable human development.
UNDP’s work covers multiple areas, including:
- Democratic governance and peacebuilding
- Poverty reduction and economic development
- Climate resilience and environmental sustainability
- Crisis response and humanitarian aid
Within the scope of democratic governance, UNDP provides technical and operational assistance to governments to strengthen electoral integrity, inclusiveness, and transparency.
Why Electoral Support is Important
Free, fair, and transparent elections are fundamental to democracy. However, many countries—especially those in transition or developing regions—face challenges such as:
- Low voter turnout due to lack of civic education
- Confusing or inaccessible election materials
- Procedural errors by election staff due to unclear guidelines
- Exclusion of marginalized groups, including people with disabilities
By simplifying election-related materials through plain language and easy-read formats, the UNDP helps ensure that:
- Election officials correctly implement procedures
- Voters understand their rights and the voting process
- Marginalized communities (e.g., people with low literacy or disabilities) are included
The Plain Language/Easy Read Editor will play a direct role in making electoral processes more inclusive and effective.
2. The Role of the Plain Language/Easy Read Editor
What is Plain Language?
Plain language refers to writing that is clear, concise, and structured in a way that allows readers to quickly and easily understand the message.
What is Easy Read?
Easy Read is a writing style designed for people with low literacy levels, cognitive disabilities, or learning difficulties. It involves:
- Using short, simple sentences
- Avoiding jargon and complex words
- Including visual elements (e.g., icons, diagrams, or images) to aid understanding
As the Plain Language/Easy Read Editor, the selected candidate will revise and simplify election-related materials to improve accessibility and clarity.
3. Key Responsibilities in Detail
A. Review and Revise Operations Manuals
- Analyze existing electoral operations manuals to identify areas where language is too complex or unclear.
- Rewrite sections to ensure that election staff can follow procedures with minimal confusion.
- Simplify complex legal and procedural terminology while maintaining accuracy.
- Ensure that all documents align with accessibility standards.
B. Develop Standardized Templates for Future Elections
- Create easy-to-follow templates that election management bodies can use in future electoral events.
- Incorporate user-friendly formats to ensure consistency across different elections.
- Work with graphic designers to develop visual layouts that enhance accessibility.
C. Ensure Accessibility and Provide Training
- Adapt manuals and publications to be more inclusive for people with disabilities, low literacy levels, or different language backgrounds.
- Provide training sessions to electoral staff on how to use the newly revised documents effectively.
- Educate officials on the importance of clear communication in elections.
D. Quality Assurance and Testing
- Conduct usability testing of the revised manuals with target users (election officials, voters, civil society groups, etc.).
- Gather feedback from stakeholders and make necessary revisions.
- Ensure that manuals meet international best practices for accessible communication.
E. General Editing and Proofreading Support
- Provide editing support for other UNDP electoral materials, including press releases, reports, and public information campaigns.
- Ensure that all materials meet UNDP’s communication standards.
4. Expected Impact of the Role
By improving the readability and accessibility of electoral materials, the Plain Language/Easy Read Editor will contribute to:
✅ Increased efficiency and accuracy – Clearer manuals mean election staff will make fewer mistakes.
✅ Greater voter participation – Voters will better understand how and when to vote.
✅ More inclusive elections – People with disabilities and those with low literacy levels will have equal access to information.
✅ Improved public trust – Transparent and understandable election processes reduce skepticism and misinformation.
The success of this role will directly influence the fairness and credibility of elections in Fiji and the Pacific region.
5. Required Skills and Qualifications
Educational Requirements
- Master’s Degree in Languages, Journalism, Communication, or a related field.
- OR Bachelor’s Degree + 7 years of experience in editing and plain language communication.
Experience Requirements
- At least 5 years (with a Master’s) or 7 years (with a Bachelor’s) of professional editing experience.
- Proven expertise in plain language and easy-read editing.
- Strong understanding of accessibility standards and best practices.
- Experience in government, civic education, or voter outreach communication.
- Training or facilitation experience in communication or editing is a plus.
Core Competencies
- Excellent written communication skills in English.
- Ability to simplify complex information while maintaining accuracy.
- Experience working with government agencies and international organizations.
6. Hiring Process and Contract Details
Contract Type & Duration
- International Personnel Service Agreement (IPSA-10)
- Maximum 130 working days over 1 year
- Location: Home-based, with coordination in Suva, Fiji
- Application Deadline: February 18, 2025
Additional Notes
- No application or recruitment fees – Beware of scams!
- UNDP may retain applications for future roles with similar job descriptions.
7. How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare the following:
📌 Updated CV/resume
📌 Cover letter explaining relevant experience
📌 Samples of previous plain language or easy-read editing work
Applications must be submitted through the UNDP online recruitment portal before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
This role is an exciting opportunity for a skilled editor passionate about clear communication, accessibility, and democratic governance. By making election materials easier to understand, the editor will empower voters, improve electoral processes, and strengthen democracy in the Pacific region
e Plain Language/Easy Read Editor role for the UNDP position in Suva, Fiji. Below, I will provide an expanded analysis covering:
- A deeper dive into UNDP’s electoral work
- More details on the impact of plain language and easy-read formats
- Additional insights into the job responsibilities, challenges, and how it fits within global democratic initiatives
- A step-by-step application guide
This extended document aims to give comprehensive information for anyone considering this position, as well as insights into how clear communication improves governance.
UNDP Plain Language/Easy Read Editor – An In-Depth Exploration
Introduction
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the most influential international organizations dedicated to global development, governance, and human rights. This role, based in Suva, Fiji, focuses on enhancing electoral transparency and efficiency by improving official documentation for election processes.
At its core, this position is about simplifying complex election-related content so that both election officials and voters can easily understand and follow procedures. The impact of this work extends far beyond just editing—it plays a critical role in democracy by ensuring accessibility and reducing misunderstandings that could lead to election errors or voter disenfranchisement.
To truly appreciate the importance of this job, let’s explore the bigger picture behind it, from UNDP’s election assistance programs to the significance of plain language communication in governance.
1. UNDP’s Global Mission and Electoral Support
What is UNDP?
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) operates in over 170 countries, focusing on:
✔ Democratic governance and peacebuilding
✔ Economic development and poverty reduction
✔ Gender equality and social inclusion
✔ Environmental sustainability and climate action
One of UNDP’s major responsibilities is helping countries build strong electoral systems that ensure fair, transparent, and credible elections.
The Importance of Electoral Support
Elections are a fundamental part of democracy and governance, but they often face challenges, including:
❌ Lack of voter education – People may not understand how to vote correctly.
❌ Confusing election materials – Complex legal jargon can lead to misinterpretation.
❌ Exclusion of marginalized communities – Some groups, such as people with disabilities, low literacy, or language barriers, struggle to access electoral information.
❌ Operational inefficiencies – Election officials may misapply procedures due to unclear manuals and guidelines.
To address these challenges, UNDP provides technical and operational assistance to Election Management Bodies (EMBs) worldwide, including in Fiji and the Pacific region.
Electoral Support in Fiji and the Pacific
The UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji runs several election assistance programs, including:
1️⃣ Pacific Elections Assistance Program (PEAP) – Strengthening electoral decision-making and administration.
2️⃣ Voter Outreach for Transparent Elections (VOTE) Fiji – Enhancing voter education and civic engagement.
Through these projects, UNDP aims to:
✅ Increase trust in elections
✅ Improve voter education
✅ Enhance operational efficiency
✅ Support inclusive democracy
The Plain Language/Easy Read Editor will play a direct role in achieving these goals by making election materials clearer and more accessible.
2. The Role of a Plain Language/Easy Read Editor
What is Plain Language?
Plain language means writing that is:
✔ Clear and concise
✔ Free of jargon and complex terms
✔ Easy to understand on the first read
✔ Organized logically for quick navigation
What is Easy Read?
Easy Read is a specialized format designed for people with cognitive disabilities, low literacy, or learning difficulties. It includes:
✔ Short, simple sentences
✔ Visual aids (icons, diagrams, or pictures)
✔ Step-by-step structure
The UNDP Plain Language/Easy Read Editor will revise election manuals, templates, and outreach materials to ensure they follow these principles.
Why Does This Matter?
📌 Election officials need clear instructions to ensure procedures are followed correctly.
📌 Voters need easy-to-understand materials to participate in elections confidently.
📌 Marginalized groups (e.g., people with disabilities, indigenous communities) must not be excluded.
By improving comprehension and accessibility, this role directly strengthens democracy and reduces electoral errors.
3. Detailed Job Responsibilities
A. Editing and Revising Election Materials
✅ Review and analyze existing electoral documents.
✅ Rewrite content in plain language and easy-read formats.
✅ Ensure all materials are free from ambiguity or legal jargon.
✅ Structure documents logically with headings, bullet points, and summaries.
B. Developing Standardized Templates
✅ Create user-friendly templates for future elections.
✅ Ensure templates maintain consistency across different elections.
✅ Work with graphic designers to incorporate visual elements for clarity.
C. Training and Accessibility Advocacy
✅ Educate election officials on the importance of clear communication.
✅ Provide training on how to use easy-read manuals effectively.
✅ Ensure materials meet international accessibility standards.
D. Quality Assurance and Feedback Implementation
✅ Test revised materials with target audiences.
✅ Collect feedback and refine documents based on real-world usability.
✅ Ensure continuous improvement of electoral communication.
E. Additional Editing Support
✅ Assist in reviewing public reports, outreach campaigns, and educational materials.
✅ Ensure consistency with UNDP’s global communication standards.
4. Challenges and Solutions
Potential Challenges
🚧 Balancing simplicity with accuracy – Electoral processes involve legal complexities that must be simplified without misinterpretation.
🚧 Ensuring inclusivity – Materials must be accessible to diverse audiences, including people with disabilities.
🚧 Training adoption – Election officials may resist adopting new formats.
Solutions
✔ Work closely with legal and electoral experts to maintain accuracy.
✔ Follow global best practices for accessibility and inclusivity.
✔ Provide hands-on training to encourage effective use of materials.
5. Qualifications and Skills Required
Education
🎓 Master’s Degree in Languages, Journalism, or Communication.
🎓 OR Bachelor’s Degree + 7 years of relevant experience.
Experience
📌 5+ years (Master’s) or 7+ years (Bachelor’s) in editing and plain language writing.
📌 Strong knowledge of accessibility standards and inclusive communication.
📌 Experience working with government institutions and civic education.
Core Competencies
✔ Excellent written communication skills in English.
✔ Ability to simplify complex content while maintaining accuracy.
✔ Training or facilitation experience is a plus.
6. How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
📌 1. Prepare an Updated CV – Highlight relevant experience in plain language editing.
📌 2. Write a Cover Letter – Emphasize your skills in accessibility and civic education.
📌 3. Provide Work Samples – Show examples of edited documents in easy-read formats.
📌 4. Submit via UNDP’s Online Portal – Ensure the application is complete before the deadline: February 18, 2025.
Final Thoughts
This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to strengthening democracy in the Pacific region by making election materials clear, inclusive, and accessible.
Would you like help with your CV, cover letter, or interview preparation? Let me know, and I’ll be happy to assist! 😊
