Interpreter/Translator for Unaccompanied Minors

Interpreter/Translator for Unaccompanied Minors

International Organization For Migration (IOM)

May 22, 2025July 6, 2025AthensGreece
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization established in 1951, dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. With over 173 member states and offices in more than 100 countries, IOM works to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration, including humanitarian assistance, migration management, and integration of migrants into host communities. IOM's mission is to provide services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike, ensuring that the rights and dignity of migrants are respected and upheld.

Job Overview:
The position of Interpreter/Translator for Unaccompanied Minors (UMC) is crucial in facilitating effective communication between IOM staff and the UMC residing in accommodation centers. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting the integration and adjustment of these minors into their new environment by providing interpretation and translation services. This role requires not only linguistic skills but also cultural sensitivity and the ability to understand the unique challenges faced by unaccompanied minors. The candidate will assist in various project activities under the supervision of the Project Coordinator and Shelter Coordinator, ensuring that the needs of the UMC are met through effective communication and support services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Interpreter/Translator include:
  • Providing interpretation services to facilitate communication between IOM staff and UMC, ensuring that messages are accurately conveyed in a language understood by the minors.
  • Assisting with translation of written materials to be disseminated to UMC, ensuring clarity and cultural appropriateness.
  • Acting as a cultural mediator to help UMC adjust to their new environment, providing insights into local customs and practices.
  • Facilitating communication between UMC and health providers, public authorities, and local services, ensuring that minors receive the necessary support and information.
  • Gathering feedback from UMC to help IOM staff better understand their perceptions and needs.
  • Performing additional duties as assigned by the supervisors, contributing to the overall success of the project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school degree or certificate, with a Bachelor's degree in Interpretation/Translation, Social Science, Humanities, or a relevant discipline considered an advantage. Previous experience in a similar role, particularly in direct assistance to migrants and/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 Interpretation/Translation, Social Science, Humanities, or a related field is preferred and will be viewed favorably during the selection process. Candidates are encouraged to have their degrees from accredited universities recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires previous experience in a similar role, with a preference for candidates who have certification or training in interpretation or translation. Experience working directly with migrants and/or refugees is highly valued, as is familiarity with the challenges faced by these populations. Additionally, experience in a multicultural work environment is considered an asset, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate diverse cultural contexts effectively.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English or Greek is required for this position. Fluency in Farsi/Dari, both written and oral, is mandatory, as it is essential for effective communication with the UMC. The selection process will specifically evaluate the proficiency of the required languages, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates meet the necessary language skills for the role. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish, but proficiency in these is not mandatory for this position.

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 the candidate's medical fitness for the role, as well as verification of residency, visa, and any necessary authorizations from the relevant government authorities. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts the organization's aims and objectives, including issues related to sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination. Candidates should be aware that IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system. For more information and additional job postings, candidates are encouraged to visit the IOM Careers and Job Vacancies website.
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