Translator

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Position Title: Translator
Location: Nairobi
Country: Kenya
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) serves as the UN headquarters in Africa and represents the Secretary-General. Established to support the implementation of various UN programs, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), UNON provides essential administrative, conference, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and information services. The organization plays a crucial role in facilitating the work of the UN in Kenya and globally, ensuring that the objectives of the UN are met effectively and efficiently. UNON is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity within its workforce, reflecting the values of the United Nations.

Job Overview:
The position of Translator within the translation" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">French Translation and Text-Processing Unit at UNON involves a range of responsibilities centered around the translation and revision of documents related to various subjects handled by the United Nations. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of Unit and is expected to demonstrate a high level of professionalism and expertise in translation. The role requires the ability to translate texts on a self-revising basis, ensuring that translations meet the required standards and deadlines. The Translator will also be responsible for providing feedback to other translators, promoting the use of language technologies, and contributing to the development of terminology standards. Continuous learning and skill development are essential aspects of this role, as the incumbent will actively seek feedback to enhance their translation capabilities. The position demands a proactive approach to coordinating the work of translators and ensuring quality control of translations produced externally, thereby maintaining the integrity and accuracy of UN documents.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Translator include: 1) Revising translations and original summary records across a wide range of subjects relevant to the UN, ensuring adherence to workload standards and deadlines. 2) Translating texts on a self-revising basis, particularly those requiring recognized proficiency. 3) Utilizing language technologies effectively and assisting in their promotion within the unit. 4) Identifying and submitting new terminology for approval, contributing to the establishment of terminology standards. 5) Actively seeking feedback to improve personal skills and knowledge relevant to translation. 6) Advising and assisting fellow translators on procedures, practices, and terminology. 7) Coordinating the work of translators and assigning tasks as necessary. 8) Supporting the Chief in programming long-term work. 9) Performing quality control on externally produced translations and contributing to quality control criteria. 10) Undertaking cross-assignments for other language functions as required. 11) Acting as First Reporting Officer when necessary. 12) Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level degree from a recognized university or institution of equivalent status. Additionally, candidates are required to have passed the relevant United Nations Competitive Examination for Translators/Précis-Writers or the combined examination for Translators, Editors, and Verbatim Reporters. This requirement may be waived for candidates who passed relevant examinations before 2017, subject to an assessment test. Successful completion of degree or non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong command of translation practices and possess the ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards of accuracy and consistency in their work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level degree from a university or an equivalent institution. Candidates must have successfully passed the relevant United Nations Competitive Examination for Translators/Précis-Writers or the combined examination for Translators, Editors, and Verbatim Reporters. This requirement may be waived for candidates who have passed relevant examinations prior to 2017, provided they undergo an assessment test as part of the selection process. Additional qualifications in data analytics or related fields are considered advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of experience in translation or a related language field is required, along with proficiency in relevant language technologies. Candidates should have experience using standard computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools. At least three years of experience in translating on a self-revision basis within the United Nations or a similar international organization is desirable. Proven experience in self-revision translation is also preferred, along with two or more years of experience in data analytics or a related area.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, candidates must have a perfect command of French, which should be their main language, as assessed in the relevant Competitive Examination. Excellent knowledge of English is also required. Knowledge of another UN language is considered desirable. Fluency in this context means a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, understanding), while 'knowledge of' indicates a rating of 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a language post and is initially appointed for a period of one year, with any extensions subject to the availability of funds. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions in accordance with established rules. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance within its staff and encourages female candidates to apply. Internal applicants must ensure that their Professional History Profile (PHP) is complete and up to date. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.