Online Volunteer Translator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is a UN organization dedicated to promoting peace and development through volunteerism on a global scale. Established to harness the power of volunteerism, UNV aims to engage individuals in addressing development challenges and enhancing the pace and nature of development. The organization emphasizes the dual benefits of volunteerism, which not only aids societal progress but also enriches the lives of individual volunteers by fostering trust, solidarity, and reciprocity among citizens. UNV advocates for the recognition of volunteers and collaborates with various partners to integrate volunteerism into development programming. With a commitment to inclusivity, UNV acknowledges the diverse nature of volunteerism and the core values that underpin it, such as free will, commitment, engagement, and solidarity. Headquartered in Bonn, Germany, UNV operates in approximately 130 countries each year, with Field Units established in 86 countries, and is represented globally through the offices of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), reporting directly to the UNDP Executive Board.

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer Translator is crucial for supporting the Regional Coordinator for the International Volunteer Year for Sustainable Development (IVY) 2026 in the West and Central Africa Region. The primary function of this role is to facilitate the translation of essential documents and materials from English to French and vice versa. This includes translating a variety of documents such as the Logo Guidance, Communications Guide, Key Messages, and newsletters, which are vital for the effective communication and implementation of the IVY 2026 initiative. The role requires a commitment to ensuring that the translated materials maintain the original message and intent, thereby contributing to the overall success of the program. Volunteers in this position will play a significant role in enhancing the accessibility of information and resources for stakeholders in the region, thereby promoting the objectives of the IVY 2026 initiative.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Translate documents from English to French and French to English, ensuring accuracy and clarity in the translation of key materials related to the IVY 2026 initiative.
• Work closely with the Regional Coordinator to understand the context and nuances of the materials being translated.
• Review and edit translations to ensure they are free of errors and convey the intended message effectively.
• Collaborate with other volunteers and stakeholders to gather feedback on translations and make necessary adjustments.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
• Meet deadlines for translation tasks to ensure timely delivery of materials for the IVY 2026 initiative.
• Participate in virtual meetings and discussions as required to align on project goals and expectations.

Required Qualifications:

• Proficiency in both English and French, with strong written communication skills in both languages.
• Previous experience in translation or a related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with the themes of sustainable development and volunteerism is an asset.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Good organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• A commitment to the values and mission of the United Nations Volunteers program.

Educational Background:
A degree in languages, translation, international relations, or a related field is preferred. Candidates with relevant certifications in translation or interpretation will be given priority. Additionally, experience in volunteer work or involvement in development projects can be beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have prior experience in translation, particularly in a professional or volunteer capacity. Experience working with international organizations or in multicultural environments is highly desirable. Familiarity with the UN system and its operations can be an advantage.

Languages:
Mandatory languages for this position are English and French. Proficiency in Portuguese is considered a plus, as materials may also need to be translated into this language. Knowledge of additional languages can enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and as such, it may not offer financial compensation. However, it provides valuable experience in international development and translation work. The role is flexible and can be performed remotely, allowing volunteers to contribute from anywhere. The duration of the commitment is not specified, but volunteers are expected to meet deadlines for translation tasks as they arise.