Interpreter / Protection Clerk

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, providing assistance to millions of people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. The organization works to ensure that refugees can access essential services, including healthcare, education, and legal assistance, and advocates for their rights at national and international levels. UNHCR is committed to finding durable solutions for refugees, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, including field staff who work directly with refugees in various contexts, including camps and urban settings.

Job Overview:
The Interpreter/Protection Clerk (LICA3) position is crucial for supporting UNHCR’s protection activities in Thailand, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges faced by refugees along the Thai-Myanmar border. This role involves providing essential interpretation and clerical support to facilitate communication between UNHCR and refugees, camp leadership, community-based organizations (CBOs), NGOs, and Thai authorities. The incumbent will play a vital role in case management for persons of concern, ensuring that refugees have access to necessary services and support. The position requires a strong presence in the field to ensure effective communication and timely follow-up on cases. The Interpreter/Protection Clerk will assist in various activities, including interpretation during interviews and meetings, supporting case management processes, and contributing to community engagement initiatives. This role is integral to promoting refugee inclusion in national systems and enhancing their access to state services, especially following the recent policy shifts in Thailand that aim to improve the situation for refugees.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Interpreter/Protection Clerk include:

• Providing interpretation and translation services during interviews, meetings, and field visits for UNHCR staff and partners.
• Assisting in case management activities, including collecting information, updating records, and supporting referrals for persons of concern both inside and outside camps.
• Supporting activities that promote access to State services and inclusion, including sharing information with refugees and assisting with documentation or referrals as instructed.
• Conducting regular field visits to share information with persons of concern, distribute Core Relief Items, and follow up on cases as instructed.
• Supporting data entry and updates in ProGres and assisting in maintaining dashboards using Kobo tools.
• Drafting correspondence, meeting notes, and maintaining organized filing systems for protection activities.
• Monitoring and reporting on community concerns and protection issues observed during field visits.
• Accompanying senior staff during meetings with refugees and camp authorities and providing interpretation as required.
• Performing other clerical and protection-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Interpreter/Protection Clerk position include:

• Completion of secondary education is the minimum requirement.
• Post-secondary training or a certificate in Business Administration, Education, Social Work, Translation, or a related field is desirable.
• Fluency in English and Karen and/or Burmese and/or Kayah (Karenni) is mandatory; working knowledge of Thai is essential.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills are necessary for effective interaction with refugees and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in computer skills, particularly MS Office applications such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of ProGres and completion of UNHCR-specific training is an advantage.
• Familiarity with UNHCR’s administrative and protection procedures is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background needed for the Interpreter/Protection Clerk position includes a minimum of secondary education. Candidates with post-secondary training or certificates in relevant fields such as Business Administration, Education, Social Work, Translation, or similar areas will be preferred. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of the role and effectively supporting UNHCR’s protection activities.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Interpreter/Protection Clerk position is at least one year of relevant experience with a High School Diploma. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent higher education may also be considered. Relevant experience in a similar role, particularly in humanitarian or refugee contexts, will be advantageous and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the position.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position include fluency in English and either Karen, Burmese, or Kayah (Karenni). A working knowledge of Thai is also essential. Candidates who possess additional language skills, particularly in Burmese or Thai, will be viewed favorably, as these languages are beneficial for effective communication with the refugee population and local authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA3 level, corresponding to G

• The contract duration is from March 1, 2026, to December 31, 202
• The role is not remote and requires the incumbent to be present in Mae Hong Son, Thailand. The position is categorized as a family staff member or affiliate type, and it is important to note that the hardship level is classified as B, which indicates the living conditions and challenges associated with the duty station. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UNHCR standards, and the organization is committed to providing a safe and empowering work environment for all staff members.