Online Volunteer for Translation and Proofreading

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the lead UN agency on international development, established to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality across the globe. Operating in 170 countries and territories, UNDP focuses on developing policies, enhancing leadership skills, fostering partnerships, and building institutional capabilities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP's mission is centered around six core development areas, known as signature solutions, which include poverty and inequality, governance, resilience, environment, energy, and gender equality. The organization emphasizes a holistic approach to disaster risk reduction (DRR) and recovery, aiming to strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerabilities through risk-informed development. UNDP's Disaster Risk Reduction and Recovery for Building Resilience Team (DRT) leads global practices in this area, providing policy advice and programmatic support to various UNDP Regional Hubs and Country Offices. The DRT manages a significant portfolio of projects, amounting to approximately USD 60 million, and is committed to enhancing the capacity of governments and communities to manage multi-dimensional risks and shocks.

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer for Translation and Proofreading is crucial for supporting the UNDP's Disaster Risk Reduction and Recovery for Building Resilience Team (DRT). The primary function of this role is to translate and proofread materials related to preparedness from English to French. This includes working on the UNDP Preparedness Toolkit, which is an interactive platform designed to help countries enhance their capabilities for anticipating and preparing for risks and crises. The Toolkit serves as a programmatic manual for UNDP Country Offices, guiding them in designing projects that align with national and local priorities. The role also involves collaborating with the Communications Team to ensure that the translated documents maintain high quality and effectiveness. Volunteers will have the opportunity to learn about the newly developed learning package and its content while receiving feedback on their work, which will contribute to their professional development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Online Volunteers will be responsible for translating knowledge and supporting resources from English to French, ensuring that the text is concise, coherent, and uses consistent terminology throughout the documents. Specific duties include translating six modules of the UNDP Preparedness Learning Pathway, which cover various aspects of risk assessment, institutional capacities for preparedness, operational preparedness, early warning systems, anticipatory action, and financing preparedness. Additionally, volunteers will translate supporting packages, including facilitation guides and other related materials. They are expected to collaborate with the Communications Team to enhance the quality of reports and provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement. The role requires attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality translations that effectively communicate the intended messages.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be fluent or native in French, with a strong command of English. They should possess excellent translation and proofreading skills, with the ability to ensure clarity and consistency in terminology. Familiarity with disaster risk reduction concepts and terminology is advantageous, as is experience in translating technical documents. Volunteers should demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a team. A commitment to the mission and values of UNDP, particularly in relation to disaster risk reduction and resilience-building, is essential.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in languages, translation, international development, or a related field would be beneficial. Candidates should have a strong understanding of both English and French, with the ability to translate complex concepts accurately and effectively.

Experience:
Previous experience in translation, particularly in the context of international development or disaster risk reduction, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of producing high-quality translations and may be required to provide samples of their previous work. Experience working with international organizations or in multicultural environments is also a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as the primary task involves translating materials into French. Proficiency in English is also required, as the source documents are in English. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and while it does not specify a contract duration, it is likely to be project-based. Volunteers will receive a certificate of appreciation upon successful completion of their assignments and may be credited for their contributions where applicable. The role is remote, allowing volunteers to work from anywhere, and it is part-time, providing flexibility in terms of hours worked.