Online Volunteer Interpreter

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations is an esteemed international organization established in 1945, dedicated to the promotion of international peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, fostering friendly relations among nations, and advocating for social progress, improved living standards, and human rights. With a unique international character and the authority granted by its founding Charter, the UN addresses a wide array of global issues and serves as a platform for its 193 Member States to voice their perspectives through various bodies such as the General Assembly, the Security Council, and the Economic and Social Council. The organization's work spans critical areas including sustainable development, environmental protection, refugee assistance, disaster relief, counter-terrorism, and disarmament efforts. The UN is currently in the process of inducting 12 newly elected treaty body members, with an induction scheduled for February 10th and 11th, which will involve sessions lasting two hours each, although there is a possibility of consolidating this into a single three-hour session on one of those dates, pending confirmation.

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer Interpreter is designed for individuals who can provide remote interpretation support during an online event organized by the United Nations. This role is crucial as it facilitates effective communication among participants who speak different languages. The event will require six online volunteers, with two interpreters needed for each of the following languages: English, French, and Spanish. The interpreters will play a vital role in ensuring that all attendees can engage fully in the discussions, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the event. The work will be conducted via a Teams meeting, and the specific duration of the event is yet to be confirmed, with options being either a single three-hour session or two separate two-hour sessions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties and responsibilities of the Online Volunteer Interpreter include providing accurate and clear interpretation of spoken content during the online event, ensuring that all participants can understand and engage with the material presented. Volunteers will need to prepare for the sessions by familiarizing themselves with the topics to be discussed and any relevant terminology. They will also be responsible for maintaining professionalism and neutrality throughout the event, managing any technical issues that may arise during the interpretation process, and collaborating effectively with other interpreters to ensure a seamless experience for all attendees. Additionally, volunteers may be required to participate in pre-event briefings to align on expectations and procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Online Volunteer Interpreter position should possess strong language skills in at least one of the required languages (English, French, or Spanish) and have a good understanding of interpretation techniques. Previous experience in interpretation or translation is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the United Nations' work and its core values. Volunteers should demonstrate excellent communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and impartiality during the event. Technical proficiency with online meeting platforms, particularly Microsoft Teams, is also essential.

Educational Background:
While there are no specific educational requirements listed for this volunteer position, a background in languages, linguistics, international relations, or a related field would be advantageous. Formal training in interpretation or translation is preferred but not mandatory, as long as candidates can demonstrate their language proficiency and interpretation skills effectively.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience in interpretation or translation, particularly in a professional or volunteer capacity. Experience working in multicultural environments or with international organizations is a plus, as it indicates familiarity with the dynamics of global communication and the importance of cultural sensitivity in interpretation.

Languages:
Mandatory languages for this position include English, French, and Spanish, as the event will require interpretation in these languages. Proficiency in any additional languages would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to contribute to the event and support a broader range of participants.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and as such, it does not offer financial compensation. The role is expected to be conducted remotely, allowing for flexibility in participation. The duration of the commitment is limited to the event dates, which are tentatively set for February 10th and 11th, with the possibility of a single session or multiple sessions. Volunteers should be prepared to engage actively during the event and may need to adjust their schedules accordingly to accommodate the timing of the sessions.