Call for Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) subject matter experts

Inspire Global Assessments is looking for registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs) to serve as subject matter experts in its competency assessment development process. Prior experience in a similar role (as a subject matter expert) is not required.

The project

Inspire is developing a new competency assessment designed to assess a candidate’s competency as an RPN. The assessment provides regulatory bodies with information about the performance of current registrants and internationally educated nurses (IENs) compared to Canadian entry-to-practice expectations.

The assessment is made of two parts: a written exam and a simulation lab assessment where candidates complete a series of scenarios with standardized patients.

The opportunity

Subject matter experts (SMEs) contribute their experience, knowledge and expertise to develop an assessment from start to finish. Key tasks include:

• identifying entry-level competencies to be measured (June 2025)
• writing and reviewing assessment questions and simulation scenarios (summer and fall 2025)
• assisting with pre-launch testing (fall 2025)
• setting scoring standards (early 2026).

This is a unique opportunity for you to support your profession, grow your skills, share your expertise, and network with nursing professionals from across Canada.

What to expect

• Estimated time commitment is 10–40 hours a month based on your availability and the stage of the project. Independent tasks can be completed in your own time. Virtual group meetings are flexible and can occur in the daytime, evenings, or on weekends, depending on the group’s availability. We recognize that most SMEs have other jobs and commitments. This is part-time, occasional work that will take several months to complete.
• If you are selected, you will receive training to learn best practices in exam writing, assessment fairness and psychometrics.
• SMEs must be able to produce quality work independently (for example, drafting exam questions or simulation scenarios) and be comfortable collaborating and exchanging feedback in group settings.
• The work requires a high level of discernment, creative problem-solving and attention to detail. Be prepared to examine decisions from multiple perspectives and consider their far-ranging implications.
• Most tasks will be done remotely. Travel to Vancouver, B.C. may be required for select working sessions. Inspire covers travel expenses per its expense policies.

What are we looking for?

To be eligible, you must:

• have at least 2-years experience practising as a registered psychiatric nurse (RPN)
• be registered with your regulatory body in good standing
• be familiar with entry-level competencies and expectations of RPNs in Canada.

You also need to:

• be available to attend and participate actively in group trainings and meetings;
• have access to a computer with a camera, microphone and high-speed internet, and be comfortable using online tools such as Microsoft Word, videoconferencing apps, or Inspire’s online platform;
• have excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills; and
• not have any conflict of interest with other assessment development organizations.

Assets:

• Experience in item writing or developing nursing assessments and exams
• Experience developing nursing simulation scenarios
• Experience teaching, assessing, and/or supervising entry-level RPNs
• Experience teaching, assessing, and/or supervising internationally-educated nurses (IENs)

Inspire seeks to assemble teams of diverse SMEs who bring a wide range of experiences, expertise, and perspectives. We are committed to fostering an open, welcoming and inclusive environment. We encourage qualified applicants of all backgrounds to apply.

Compensation

Your time and expertise are valuable. Compensation varies by the nature of the work performed and will be detailed in each invitation.

How to apply

1. Update your resume.
2. Complete the application form.
3. If you are shortlisted, we will reach out to you to schedule a brief interview, check professional references (2), and send a short writing test.

At Inspire, we value diversity and inclusion. We believe diverse perspectives and experiences bring both innovation and better outcomes to the work we do and the decisions we make. We welcome participation from nurses who reflect the communities we serve and encourage Indigenous Peoples and members of equity-seeking groups to apply.

Email assessmentdevelopment@Inspireassessments.org if you have any questions.