Interpreter/Translator for Unaccompanied Minors

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Interpreter/Translator for Unaccompanied Minors
Location: Patra
Country: Greece
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on providing services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike, ensuring that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified. IOM's mission includes addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, such as unaccompanied minors, and facilitating their integration into new environments.

Job Overview:
The position of Interpreter/Translator for Unaccompanied Minors involves providing essential support in communication between IOM staff and unaccompanied migrant children (UMC) residing in accommodation centers. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in facilitating effective communication through interpretation and translation services, ensuring that UMC can access necessary services and support. This role requires a deep understanding of the cultural and emotional challenges faced by UMC, as well as the ability to act as a cultural mediator during their adjustment to a new environment. The position demands a proactive approach to assist UMC in navigating their interactions with health providers, public authorities, and local services, thereby enhancing their overall experience and integration process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Interpreter/Translator will be responsible for the following duties:

• Provide interpretation services to facilitate effective communication between IOM staff and UMC.
• Translate written materials and information to be disseminated to UMC, ensuring clarity and understanding.
• Assist UMC in communicating with health providers and public authorities, acting as a liaison to ensure their needs are met.
• Offer cultural mediation to help UMC adjust to their new environment, addressing any concerns or misunderstandings they may have.
• Gather feedback from UMC to provide insights to IOM staff regarding the perceptions and needs of migrants.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Shelter Coordinator or Project Coordinator, contributing to the overall mission of IOM in supporting UMC.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school degree or certificate. A Bachelor’s degree in Interpretation/Translation, Social Science, Humanities, or a relevant discipline is considered an advantage. Previous experience in a similar role, particularly in direct assistance to migrants or refugees, is preferred. Familiarity with working in a multicultural environment is also advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate computer literacy in standard software applications, such as MS Office, and possess a valid driver’s license with at least five years of driving experience, which is considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent. A Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Interpretation/Translation, Social Science, or Humanities is preferred and will be viewed favorably during the selection process. Candidates must have graduated from accredited universities recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires previous experience in a similar role, particularly in providing interpretation or translation services. Experience in direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees is highly preferred. Candidates should also have experience working in a multicultural environment, which will enhance their ability to relate to and support UMC effectively.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English or Greek is required for this position. Fluency in Arabic, both written and oral, is mandatory. Proficiency in IOM’s official languages, which include English, French, and Spanish, will be evaluated during the selection process, potentially through written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Greece will be considered. The appointment will be contingent upon medical fitness certification, verification of residency, visa, and any necessary authorizations from the government. Candidates must provide evidence of full vaccination against COVID-19 as part of the mandatory medical entry clearance. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.