Online Volunteer Translator

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to lead global efforts to achieve better health for all people. The organization operates in 194 countries and has a workforce of over 7,000 employees. WHO's work encompasses a wide range of health issues, including the response to emerging epidemics, communicable diseases, and chronic health conditions. The organization is committed to ensuring that everyone, everywhere has an equal chance at a safe and healthy life, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating international health responses and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer Translator is focused on supporting the Health Cluster in Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. This role is essential for enhancing communication capacity for joint humanitarian responses and improving the dissemination of critical information. Volunteers will be tasked with translating documents from Sinhala to Tamil and vice versa, which includes reports, briefs, and other communication materials related to the recovery efforts and health coordination" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">cluster coordination. The role requires adherence to UN communication guidelines and a commitment to maintaining accuracy and clarity in translations. Volunteers will work remotely and coordinate with the Health Cluster focal point to ensure that translations meet the needs of diverse target audiences and are delivered in a timely manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected online volunteers will be responsible for translating an estimated 5–10 short documents per month, which may include briefs, factsheets, and situation updates. The volume of work may be adjusted based on the response needs and in agreement with the Health Cluster Focal Point. Key responsibilities include ensuring that translations are accurate, clear, and contextually appropriate, maintaining the original meaning, tone, and intent of the documents in line with UN communication guidelines. Volunteers will also need to adapt translations for various target audiences as indicated, coordinate remotely with the Health Cluster focal point to receive guidance and feedback, incorporate revisions, and ensure timely submission of deliverables. Additionally, candidates must submit a one-paragraph translation sample as part of the selection process to demonstrate their language proficiency.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong language skills in both Sinhala and Tamil, with a proven ability to translate between the two languages accurately and effectively. Familiarity with UN communication guidelines and experience in translating humanitarian or health-related documents will be considered an asset. Volunteers should demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the integrity and context of the original content while adapting translations for different audiences. Strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently and meet deadlines are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in languages, translation, linguistics, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a strong command of both Sinhala and Tamil languages, with an understanding of the cultural nuances that may affect translation.

Experience:
Experience in translation, particularly in the context of humanitarian work or health communication, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to produce high-quality translations under tight deadlines and be familiar with the challenges of translating sensitive content in a humanitarian context.

Languages:
Fluency in both Sinhala and Tamil is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of English may be beneficial but is not explicitly required. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their proficiency in both languages through the submission of a translation sample during the selection process.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and as such, it may not offer financial compensation. The role is remote, allowing volunteers to work from anywhere while contributing to important humanitarian efforts. The commitment is expected to be flexible, with an estimated workload of translating 5–10 documents per month, depending on the needs of the Health Cluster. Volunteers will be part of a coordinated effort to assist approximately 658,370 people affected by Cyclone Ditwah, focusing on health service continuity and access to essential care.