Interpreter/Translator (Somali-English)

INTRODUCTION

Save the Children has been working in Rwanda since 1994 in partnership with the Government of Rwanda and local stakeholders to promote a bright future for children. We have experience working in all 30 districts across the country. Our main areas of focus are education, child protection, child rights governance, and health and nutrition, both in humanitarian and development contexts.

GENERAL BACKGROUND

Save the Children is the world’s largest independent child rights organization, with a vision of a world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development, and participation. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives. We implement both development and humanitarian assistance programs in Rwanda and Burundi.

ROLE PURPOSE

The Language Interpreter/Translator (Somali-English) is responsible for providing on-demand interpretation and translation services between Somali and English. The role is critical in facilitating communication at the Transit Centre between our clients, staff, and other stakeholders. The interpreter/translator ensures accurate, culturally sensitive, and timely interpretation, maintaining confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

In the event of a major humanitarian emergency, the post holder may be required to work outside the normal role profile and adjust working hours accordingly.

KEY AREAS OF ACCOUNTABILITY

• Translate spoken messages, live speeches, voice recordings, and written documents between Somali and English with a focus on accuracy, tone, and context.
• Collaborate with colleagues to create and maintain a glossary of key terms and definitions for reference.
• Interpret conversations accurately and ethically, adhering to interpretation protocols and avoiding omissions or additions.
• Speak clearly and professionally in both languages, ensuring proper pronunciation and tone.
• Maintain a professional demeanor at all times, particularly in high-stress or emergency situations.
• Remain punctual and available during scheduled working hours.
• Follow established protocols, especially when interacting with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) individuals.
• Understand and apply appropriate terminology in humanitarian contexts, including Child Protection, SGBV, and Health sectors.
• Respect cultural sensitivities and promote inclusion in a diverse working environment.
• Ensure strict confidentiality of all interpreted and translated information.
• Identify and help resolve any conflicts in meaning, wording, or behavior during interpretation.
•  Be available on-site at the Transit Centre or other designated locations as required.
• Accurately rewrite and translate technical documents, maintaining grammar, structure, and mechanics.

QUALIFICATIONS

A university degree in language interpretation/translation, literature, linguistics, or social sciences with proven experience in interpretation and translation.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience as an interpreter/translator in Child Protection and SGBV-related programs.
• Full professional fluency in Somali and English, both written and spoken.
• Knowledge of Kinyarwanda is an added advantage.
• Understanding of child protection, SGBV, and community-based approaches.
• Experience working with NGOs, especially with refugees or displaced populations, is an asset.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., MS Word, Excel).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines.
• High standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.

CHILD SAFEGUARDING

Level 3 – the post holder will have contact with children and/or young people either frequently (e.g. once a week or more) or intensively (e.g. four days in one month or more or overnight) because they work country programs; or are visiting country programs; or because they are responsible for implementing the police checking/vetting process staff.

ANTI-HARASSMENT POLICY

Save the Children is committed to creating a safe working environment for all staff and those we work with, including children and community members. We have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse, and any behavior that is discriminatory or disrespectful.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.*

Kindly submit your application HERE before June 5th, 2025.

*Save the Children does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.*