VOLUNTEER POSITION: Interpreter or Translator

LOCATION: Remote, unless specified otherwise.

Project HOPE is an international NGO of engaged employees and volunteers who work in more than 25 countries, responding to the world's most pressing global health challenges. Throughout our 60-year legacy, Project HOPE has treated millions of patients and provided more than $3 billion worth of medicines to local health care organizations around the world. We have helped build hundreds of health programs from the ground up and responded to humanitarian crises worldwide.

Code of Conduct

It is our shared responsibility and obligation to treat each other with respect, take affirmative steps to prevent matters involving Sexual Exploitation & Abuse and Trafficking in Persons, and to disclose all potential and actual violations of our Code of Conduct, which may include Conflicts of Interest, Fraud, Corruption, Discrimination or Harassment. Together we can reinforce a culture of respect, integrity, accountability, and transparency.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Volunteer interpreters/translators are integral to the day-to-day running of our programs. They are the bridge between the staff, program participants and partner organizations, providing accurate communication in a common language. Opportunities are available throughout the year but are infrequent and dependent on the demand for interpretation in the language you can offer. The languages that are most often requested are Arabic, Haitian Creole, Amharic, and Mandarin. All languages are welcome though as we are open to a variety of languages and dialects.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support accurate communication in a common language during interviews and other meetings conducted in-person, by telephone, and/or by video conference by providing verbatim (word for word) interpretation services.
• Provide translating services for other materials or handouts as needed.
• Provide interpretation services in the preferred language of the participants without paraphrasing, summarizing, omitting, or adding information; always use the first person (I, me and my) and remain engaged during the interpretation session.
• Maintain strict confidentiality during interpretation sessions and follow designated program procedures regarding the destruction or maintenance of written notes within the required timeframe (e.g. immediately after each interpretation session).
• Remain objective, unbiased, impartial, and neutral when providing interpretation services. Treat all parties to the conversation with courtesy, dignity, and respect, regardless of their age, ethnicity, religion, political opinion, sex characteristics, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, or any other factors.
• Have an appropriate understanding of and sensitivity towards cultural practices and language differences that may exist between the parties to the conversation. Respect the use of proper pronouns that are preferred by the participants, when applicable.
• Inform the Supervisor if you are having difficulty understanding a party to the conversation or if a participant or any other individual offers a bribe, threatens you or tries to influence your interpretation. Immediately inform the Supervisor if you know the participant personally or if you have ever met the individual at any point in the past.
• Abide by Project HOPE''s Code of Ethics and Conduct, and all additional Policies and procedures.
• Participate in relevant training sessions.
• Be available to be evaluated on the quality of your interpretation by a staff member fluent in that specific language.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Fluent in language marked on application.
• At least 21 years old.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and age groups.
• A passion to help with an understanding of cultural differences and non-judgmental attitude.
• Previous interpreter or translation experience is an asset.
• Ability to work as an effective member of a dedicated team of volunteers and staff.
• Sensitivity to and a clear understanding of confidentiality issues.
• Sound understanding of and commitment to Project HOPE mission.

Please note, this position will be utilized on an as needed basis. Ensure to update your language and fluency level in your volunteer profile to be matched with opportunities.

Due to the substantial number of inquiries, we receive, only candidates who have met the required experience & qualifications for this position will be considered.