Simultaneous Interpreter

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has been operational for over two decades, focusing on making the world safer from various threats including drugs, organized crime, corruption, and terrorism. The organization is dedicated to achieving health, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and justice for all by addressing these issues and promoting peace and sustainable well-being. UNODC provides practical assistance and encourages collaborative approaches to tackle these global challenges. It operates through a network of field offices and global programs, supporting Member States in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Border Management Branch, established in April 2022, aims to deliver comprehensive technical assistance in border management, encompassing various programs such as the Airport Communication Programme (AIRCOP), Container Control Programme (CCP), Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP), Criminal Network Disruption Programme (CRIMJUST), and the UNODC Environment Team, which focuses on crimes affecting the environment.

Job Overview:
The position involves providing simultaneous interpretation services for an online meeting hosted by UNODC, specifically for the Global United Action to Reduce and Dismantle (GUARD) organized wildlife crime project in Central Asia. The interpreter will facilitate communication between international organizations, government representatives from five Central Asian countries, and civil society actors during the meeting. The event is scheduled for 16 February 2026, from 14:00 to 15:30 GMT+5, and will be conducted via the Zoom platform. The role requires not only fluency in English and Russian but also the ability to convey messages accurately and effectively in real-time, ensuring that all participants can engage fully in the discussions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide simultaneous interpretation from English to Russian and vice versa during the online meeting, ensuring clarity and accuracy in communication.
• Prepare for the meeting by reviewing relevant materials and understanding the context of the discussions related to the GUARD Wildlife project.
• Collaborate with the meeting organizers to ensure technical requirements for interpretation are met, including testing equipment and software prior to the event.
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality throughout the meeting, adhering to ethical standards of interpretation.
• Manage any technical issues that may arise during the interpretation process, ensuring minimal disruption to the flow of the meeting.
• Engage with participants to clarify any ambiguities in communication and provide feedback on the interpretation process if necessary.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in simultaneous interpretation, particularly in a conference or meeting setting.
• Strong command of both English and Russian languages, with the ability to interpret complex discussions accurately.
• Familiarity with the topics of organized crime, wildlife crime, and sustainable development is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Technical proficiency in using online meeting platforms, particularly Zoom, and interpretation equipment.

Educational Background:
A degree in interpretation, linguistics, or a related field is preferred. Additional certifications in interpretation or translation will be considered an asset. Continuous professional development in the field of interpretation is encouraged.

Experience:
A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in simultaneous interpretation, preferably in international settings or for organizations such as the UN. Experience working with governmental and non-governmental organizations in Central Asia is a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Russian is mandatory. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Central Asian region would be advantageous but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is for a specific event scheduled for 16 February 2026, and the interpreter will be contracted for the duration of the meeting. This is a remote position, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. Compensation details will be discussed during the hiring process.