National Translating/Interpreting/Proofreading Consultants

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women, established in July 2010, is dedicated to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women globally. The organization operates with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, advocating for their rights and ensuring their participation as equal partners in development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. UN Women has a three-pronged mandate focusing on normative, coordination, and programmatic engagement, and it works with national partners to implement international and national commitments to women's rights and gender equality. The organization is active in various thematic areas, including gender-responsive governance, women's economic empowerment, ending violence against women, and women, peace, and security. UN Women invests significantly in coordination with UN agencies, national institutions, civil society organizations, and international development partners, ensuring a comprehensive approach to gender equality across different sectors.

Job Overview:
The position involves engaging national consultants who specialize in translating, interpreting, and proofreading services, particularly in the context of gender equality and women's empowerment. The consultants will be responsible for providing high-quality translation services from Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian (BHS) into English and vice versa. They will also ensure the quality of translations through proofreading and will maintain confidentiality regarding the original texts and translated materials. The role requires the ability to implement comments and corrections effectively. The consultants will work under the supervision of designated programme and communications staff, with overall oversight from the Programme Management Specialist and Country Representative. This consultancy is home-based, with the possibility of travel within Bosnia and Herzegovina as needed, and travel costs will be covered according to UN Women’s rules and procedures. The consultants will be engaged under a retainer contract, allowing for direct engagement based on need and availability, with a pre-agreed fee.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultants will be tasked with providing high-quality translation services from BHS into English and from English into BHS. They will ensure that all translations meet the required standards of accuracy and style, reflecting the nuances of the original text. Additionally, the consultants will provide interpreting services, which may include simultaneous, consecutive, or whispered interpretation, as well as proofreading services in English. Each assignment will come with a specific Terms of Reference that outlines the nature and scope of work, deliverables, timeframe, and expected outcomes. The consultants must maintain a high level of concentration and attention to detail, meet tight deadlines, and work collaboratively with other team members. They will also be expected to engage in continuous learning and adapt to feedback to improve their services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess excellent writing skills in both required languages and demonstrate the ability to provide translating, interpreting, and proofreading services with a high standard of accuracy. Knowledge of international affairs and UN Women’s focus areas is essential, along with a proven ability to maintain productivity without compromising quality. The consultants should also exhibit strong communication skills and a willingness to collaborate with others. A commitment to gender issues and sensitivity towards them is crucial, as is the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders and lead by example in their work.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature or a Bachelor’s degree with a Certified Court Interpreter (English) certification is required. Any additional training in relevant areas, particularly related to gender issues, will be considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of professional experience in translating, interpreting (English/BHS), and proofreading (English). Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of experience in simultaneous, consecutive, or whispered interpretation is required. At least 2 years of experience in translating, interpreting, or proofreading related to development issues and gender equality/women’s rights is also necessary. A proven track record of written translation in topics related to gender equality and women’s rights is essential, and experience delivering services to UN or international organizations will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and verbal communication in Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian and English is mandatory. This requirement is critical for ensuring effective communication and accurate translation of materials.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contracts can vary in duration from one day to a maximum of three years, with payments made as specified in the contract upon satisfactory delivery of services. Entry into the expert roster does not guarantee a contract with UN Women; consultants will be contacted based on their experience when a request for services arises. A specific Terms of Reference will be provided for each assignment, and conditions may be negotiable. UN Women is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and organizational needs. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history.