Online Volunteer Interpreter

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is dedicated to contributing to peace and development through volunteerism on a global scale. Established to promote the value of volunteerism, UNV works with various partners to integrate qualified and motivated volunteers into development programming. The organization emphasizes the importance of volunteerism in achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing community resilience. UNV operates in numerous countries worldwide, engaging volunteers in diverse roles that support local and international development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer Interpreter position is designed to support the UNV’s mission of fostering collaboration with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) in Moldova. This role involves providing real-time interpretation in International Sign during a live Zoom webinar, which aims to facilitate dialogue and joint planning among OPDs and the UNV Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia. The webinar will focus on disability rights and inclusive volunteering, ensuring that all participants, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can engage fully in the discussion. The selected volunteer will play a crucial role in making the session accessible, thereby upholding the principles of the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibility of the Online Volunteer Interpreter will be to provide accurate and respectful real-time interpretation from spoken English into International Sign during the live webinar. This includes:

• Participating in a preparatory briefing to familiarize with the agenda and key terminology.
• Interpreting spoken content during the 1.5-hour live session, ensuring clarity and accessibility for all participants.
• Maintaining a professional visual setup, including appropriate lighting and camera framing, to enhance the visibility of signs.
• Ensuring that communication is respectful and accessible, adhering to the principles of inclusive communication practices.
• Collaborating with the UNV team and OPDs to ensure that the session meets the needs of all participants, particularly those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong command of both spoken English and International Sign, with proven experience in interpretation. They should demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, particularly in the context of disability rights. Familiarity with the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a virtual environment.

Educational Background:
While there are no specific educational requirements listed, candidates with formal training in interpretation, particularly in International Sign, will be preferred. Relevant certifications or qualifications in sign language interpretation or related fields will enhance a candidate's application.

Experience:
Candidates should have prior experience in providing interpretation services, particularly in a live setting. Experience working with or alongside Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) or in disability rights advocacy will be considered an asset. Familiarity with virtual platforms such as Zoom is also important, as the role requires effective communication in an online environment.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken English is mandatory, as the interpretation will be from English into International Sign. Proficiency in additional sign languages or knowledge of other languages may be considered beneficial but is not required for this position.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position for a specific event scheduled for 30 June 202

• The role is part-time, focusing on a single webinar session lasting approximately 1.5 hours. The selected volunteer will be expected to participate in a preparatory briefing prior to the event. This position is open to individuals who can work remotely, allowing for flexibility in participation.