Deadline Looms for WIPO Translation Chief Hire with Nearly USD 150k Salary

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is hiring a Head of the Translation and Terminology Section in Geneva.

The role sits within WIPO’s Madrid Operations Support Service, Madrid Operations Division of the Madrid Registry in the Brands and Designs Sector, and is responsible for translation activities related to international applications filed under the Madrid, Hague, and Lisbon Systems. The working languages in the Madrid Registry are English, French, and Spanish.

According to the job posting, the role includes leading the strategic transformation of translation services, with a focus on the adoption and operational use of translation technologies, including AI translation. This includes ensuring effective use of these technologies across teams, defining requirements for future technology solutions, and overseeing implementation in collaboration with WIPO’s internal technology units.

Beyond technology adoption, the role carries responsibility for quality assurance of both human and AI translations, process optimization, performance monitoring, and staff development. The position also includes oversight of external translation vendors, including contributing to outsourcing policies, tender processes, and quality monitoring.

WIPO has disclosed salary details for the post. The position carries an annual base salary of USD 77,326, plus post adjustment of USD 70,444, bringing total estimated annual remuneration to USD 147,770, paid in Swiss francs.

To qualify, candidates should demonstrate extensive experience in translation and terminology management, including leadership of translation teams and a proven track record in implementing translation technologies, including AI translation. Desirable experience explicitly references AI-driven initiatives such as AI translation pilots, large language models integration, and custom AI solutions for quality assurance workflows.

An advanced degree in translation, computational linguistics, or related tech fields is required, though equivalent professional experience may substitute.

The initial appointment is two years, renewable up to five years, subject to performance and other conditions. 

Applications close on January 20, 2026.