Project Associate (Interpretation & Translation) in Kaiserslautern bei IOM Internationale Organisation für Migration

IOM Internationale Organisation für Migration

Position Title : Project Associate (Interpretation & Translation)

Duty Station : Kaiserslautern, Germany

Reference Code : VN-DE2-2023-20

Classification : General Service Staff, G4

Type of Appointment : One Year Fixed-Term Contract - (40hrs/week)

Estimated Start Date : As soon as possible

Closing Date : 21 September 2023

IOM is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. Read more about diversity and inclusion at IOM at www.iom.int/diversity. For all IOM vacancies, applications from qualified and eligible first-tier candidates are considered before those of qualified and eligible second-tier candidates in the selection process. For the purpose of this vacancy, internal candidates are considered first-tier candidates. Second tier candidates include all external candidates.

Context:

Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. As the leading international organization for migration, IOM acts with its partners in the international community to assist in meeting the growing operational challenges of migration management; advance understanding of migration issues; encourage social and economic development through migration and uphold the human dignity and well-being of migrants affected by the ongoing emergency.

IOM’s operations cover diverse thematic areas such as: Humanitarian Relief Assistance, Protection (including Gender based Violence and Child Protection), Shelter and Non-food items, Health and Psychosocial Support, Resettlement, and Movement Management.

Under the overall guidance of the Head of Office, the direct supervision of the Senior Project Associate (Interpretation and Translation) and in close coordination with relevant units at Headquarters and Administrative Centres, the incumbent will be responsible and accountable for the following:

Core Functions / Responsibilities:

1. Support accurate communication in a common language during interviews and other meetings conducted in-person, by telephone, and/or by video conference by providing verbatim (word for word) interpretation services;

2. Provide interpretation services in the preferred language of the beneficiaries without paraphrasing, summarizing, omitting or adding information;

3. Maintain strict confidentiality during interpretation sessions and follow designated program procedures regarding the destruction or maintenance of written notes within the required timeframe (e.g. immediately after each interpretation session);

4. Remain objective, unbiased, impartial and neutral when providing interpretation services. Treat all parties to the conversation with courtesy, dignity and respect, regardless of their age, ethnicity, religion, political opinion, sex characteristics, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability or any other factors;

5. Have an appropriate understanding of and sensitivity towards cultural practices and language differences that may exist between the parties to the conversation. Respect the use of proper pronouns that are preferred by the beneficiaries, when applicable;

6. Participate in relevant training sessions on such topics as interpreting for international organizations, respectful terminology and the protection of program beneficiaries, and contribute to terminology lists as requested;

7. Be available to be evaluated on the quality of your interpretation by a third party;

8. Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Education

Bachelors’ degree (or higher) in Translation, Languages, Political Science, International Relations or a related field from an accredited academic institution, with at least two years of relevant professional experience, preferably in similar roles; or,

Completed High School degree from an accredited academic institution, with at least four years of relevant working experience, preferably in similar roles.

Experience

• Demonstrated interpretation and/or translation experience for international humanitarian organizations, non-government or government institutions/organizations.
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking and other vulnerable groups is an advantage.

Skills

• Excellent knowledge and skills in translation and interpreting between the target languages;
• Demonstrated ability to draft and edit translations in writing in the target language;
• Excellent communication skills;
• Proven ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with persons of diverse cultural and national backgrounds;