Translator & Interpreter (for internal and external candidates)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is a UN agency established in 1949, mandated to assist and protect approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and Gaza. Its mission is to support their human development potential pending a just solution to their plight. UNRWA is the largest UN operation in the Middle East, funded primarily by voluntary contributions.

Job Purpose

This role serves to provide essential translation and interpretation services for UNRWA, ensuring accurate and precise communication between English and Arabic for both internal and external stakeholders. The incumbent will translate documents, reports, and website content, and act as an interpreter at meetings, press briefings, and official events. Additionally, the role involves assisting with the editing of official Arabic language materials, proofreading agency-wide documents, and supporting various departments with their key issuances. The purpose is to facilitate effective communication and information dissemination, contributing to the smooth operation of UNRWA's diverse services and its mission to support Palestine refugees.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include translating various documents, reports, and website content from English to Arabic and vice versa, ensuring high accuracy and precision. The role involves acting as an interpreter during internal and external meetings, press briefings, and other official occasions. The incumbent will also assist in editing UNRWA’s official Arabic language materials and collaborate with the Communications Division’s Arabic desk. Furthermore, the position requires editing and proofreading agency-wide documents, including sensitive materials from departments like Legal Affairs and Human Resources, and supporting their final production. The role may also encompass other assigned duties by the Director of Communications, potentially supporting other offices or departments.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of experience in translation and interpretation between Arabic and English is required, with at least three of those years gained within an international organization. An excellent command of written and spoken English and Arabic is also essential.

Skills

Proficiency in English and Arabic (written and spoken). Technical expertise in translation and interpretation. Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills. Ability to deliver results and demonstrate self-awareness. Capacity to work independently or collaboratively. Tact and well-developed political awareness. Computer proficiency, including word processing in both English and Arabic.

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