Interpreter Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNOPS, which is a part of the United Nations system. UNOPS was established to provide project management, infrastructure, and procurement services to a variety of partners, including UN agencies, international financial institutions, governments, and other organizations. The organization aims to help partners implement their projects effectively and efficiently, ensuring that they achieve their goals while adhering to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. UNOPS operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are dedicated to supporting sustainable development and humanitarian efforts worldwide. The organization focuses on delivering quality services in areas such as infrastructure development, procurement, and project management, with a strong emphasis on capacity building and knowledge transfer to local partners.

Job Overview:
The Interpreter Assistant position is crucial for facilitating communication between UNHCR staff and asylum seekers/refugees in Thailand. The primary responsibility of the Interpreter Assistant is to provide accurate and professional interpretation and translation services between Khmer and English. This role involves translating documents related to various protection services, including Registration (REG), Refugee Status Determination (RSD), and Resettlement (RST). The Interpreter Assistant will also interpret during interviews and counseling sessions, ensuring that the needs of asylum seekers and refugees are met effectively. The position requires a high level of professionalism and ethical conduct, as the Interpreter Assistant will be dealing with sensitive information and vulnerable populations. The work can be performed remotely, allowing for flexibility in how services are delivered. The successful candidate will be expected to report on calls and interactions, maintain accurate records, and perform additional interpretation and translation tasks as assigned by supervisors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Interpreter Assistant include:

• Interpreting and translating documents, reports, and other written materials from Khmer to English and vice versa.
• Providing interpretation services during REG, RSD, RST, and community service interviews and counseling sessions.
• Assisting in interpretation for other UNHCR offices and staff members when requested and approved.
• Conducting interpretation during protection information sessions, briefings, and training related to best interest determination.
• Interpreting telephone inquiries from asylum seekers and refugees, ensuring accurate communication.
• Reporting on each call received for database recording and further action.
• Performing other interpretation and translation functions as requested by supervisors.
• Traveling with international staff for field missions and providing interpretation and assistance as needed.
• Arranging meetings and taking minutes/notes during discussions, especially with high-ranking officials. 1
• Facilitating immigration and customs formalities for official personnel at the airport. 1
• Responding to queries related to the area of responsibility and supporting risk management efforts.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Interpreter Assistant position include:

• Proven skills in communicating proficiently in Khmer and English, both verbally and in writing.
• Professional conduct and ethics in performing interpretation and translation services.
• Prior experience in interpretation or translation is desirable but not mandatory.
• Ability to listen, speak, read, and write accurately in both languages.
• Strong reporting skills to document interactions and maintain records.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma or equivalent. A Bachelor's degree or higher is preferred but not mandatory. Relevant certifications in business administration or secretarial work may also be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma. For those with a Bachelor's degree or higher, relevant experience may be less stringent. Experience in interpretation or translation is highly desirable, particularly in contexts involving sensitive information and vulnerable populations.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is Khmer, with proficiency in English also required. Knowledge of additional languages is considered a plus but is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under UNOPS LICA3 and is categorized as having a hardship level of A (least hardship). The role is family-friendly, allowing for family members to accompany the staff. The target start date for this position is March 1, 2026, and the deadline for applications is March 11, 202

• The position can be performed remotely, providing flexibility for the successful candidate. All UNHCR staff members are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, adhering to the organization's core values and ethical standards.