Linguist - Plain Language Writer/Editor

About the role

We are looking for two (2) expert-level Linguists (Plain Language Writers/Editors) to join our growing independent contractor team! In this role, you will help make complex information accessible to everyone by transforming government forms, letters, and public notices into clear, simple English. You will champion plain language principles—emphasizing brevity, familiar phrasing, and the avoidance of overly complex vocabulary to meet target literacy levels (such as a 5th-grade reading level).

Responsibilities

• Review, edit, and rewrite source texts into clear, concise, and easy-to-understand language adhering to client brand and style guidelines
• Adapt materials to suit the educational levels, cultural contexts, and accessibility needs of diverse target audiences
• Collaborate closely with project managers and subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure absolute accuracy
• Maintain consistency and continuity across documents, utilizing industry best practices for readability (e.g., Flesch-Kincaid) and accessibility standards
• Conduct thorough quality reviews and finalize documents for delivery

Requirements

• Proven experience in professional writing, editing, or plain language communication (background in government, public sector, or healthcare communications is a strong plus!)
• Strong command of English grammar, syntax, style, and regional/idiomatic nuances
• Familiarity with cognitive accessibility guidelines, "easy read" standards, and document design/remediation
• A strong commitment to professional confidentiality and the secure handling of sensitive public sector information
• Comfort using content management tools, collaboration platforms, and Adobe markup tools for reviews
• A reliable computer and secure/private, high-speed internet connection

Benefits

• Flexible, project-based assignments tailored to your availability
• The opportunity to make important public information clear, equitable, and understandable for diverse communities