About Company
World Vision International is a global Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and communities to overcome extreme poverty and injustice. Operating in nearly 100 countries, including a significant presence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), we are committed to bringing lasting solutions to communities in need. In the DRC, World Vision focuses on various sectors including health, nutrition, education, child protection, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and livelihoods, striving to improve the well-being of vulnerable children and their families. Our work in Maniema Province, and specifically in Kindu, involves direct engagement with local communities, government stakeholders, and other humanitarian partners to implement programs that foster sustainable development and resilience. We believe in the power of local voices and effective communication to achieve our mission, making roles like this Interpreter pivotal to our success and impact. Join us in our mission to create a better future for children.
Job Description
Are you a skilled linguist with a profound passion for humanitarian work and an unwavering commitment to fostering understanding across diverse cultures? World Vision International is seeking a dedicated and experienced Interpreter to join our dynamic and impactful team in Kindu, Maniema Province. In this crucial and highly visible role, you will serve as the indispensable bridge that connects our international teams with local communities, program beneficiaries, government officials, and other vital partners during a wide array of NGO events, crucial meetings, intensive workshops, and essential field visits. Your exceptional linguistic expertise will be instrumental in ensuring accurate, nuanced, and culturally sensitive communication, which is absolutely vital for effective program planning, successful implementation, gathering authentic feedback, and meaningful community engagement. You will be primarily responsible for providing high-quality consecutive and simultaneous interpretation between English, French, and local languages, predominantly Swahili and Lingala. This ensures that all participants, regardless of their native tongue, can fully comprehend intricate discussions, contribute meaningfully to critical dialogues, and collaborate effectively towards shared goals. This position demands not only outstanding linguistic abilities but also a deep understanding of humanitarian principles, strong cultural sensitivity, impeccable discretion, and a steadfast commitment to neutrality. You will play a pivotal role in facilitating dialogues on critical issues such as child protection, public health initiatives, quality education, sustainable economic development, and peacebuilding efforts, directly contributing to the success and lasting impact of World Vision’s life-changing initiatives in the region. If you are deeply passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable children and their families, and thrive in a fast-paced, challenging, yet incredibly rewarding environment, we wholeheartedly encourage you to apply and help us amplify the voices and experiences of the communities we are privileged to serve.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide accurate and culturally appropriate consecutive and simultaneous interpretation between English, French, Swahili, and Lingala during various NGO events, meetings, workshops, field visits, and community dialogues.
- Facilitate clear, effective, and impartial communication between international staff, local communities, beneficiaries, government officials, and other critical stakeholders.
- Ensure accurate rendition of technical terms, humanitarian jargon, sensitive information, and cultural nuances while maintaining strict confidentiality, impartiality, and professional ethics.
- Assist in clarifying cultural context and specific meanings to prevent misunderstandings and promote mutual respect.
- Thoroughly prepare for interpretation assignments by reviewing relevant documents, terminology glossaries, and background information pertinent to the event or discussion.
- Maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and strictly adhere to World Vision's ethical guidelines, safeguarding policies, and codes of conduct.
- Provide informal translation of short documents, reports, communication materials, and correspondence as required to support program operations.
- Support the logistical aspects of events to ensure a seamless communication flow and efficient execution.
- Proactively report any challenges or potential issues related to interpretation accuracy, communication gaps, or cultural sensitivities to the relevant supervisor.
Required Skills
- Proven exceptional fluency in written and spoken English, French, Swahili, and Lingala.
- Minimum of 3 years of professional experience as an interpreter, with a strong preference for experience within an NGO or humanitarian context.
- Excellent active listening, memory retention, and precise note-taking skills essential for high-quality consecutive interpretation.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain absolute neutrality, accuracy, and cultural appropriateness during all interpretation assignments.
- Profound cultural sensitivity and deep awareness of local customs, traditions, and socio-political dynamics in Maniema Province.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills, cross-cultural communication abilities, and a collaborative spirit.
- Proven ability to work effectively under pressure, manage multiple assignments, and thrive in diverse team environments.
- High level of discretion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to confidentiality regarding sensitive information.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics, Translation, Communication, International Relations, or a closely related field.
- Certification in interpretation or translation from a recognized professional institution or body.
- Extensive experience with specialized terminology in critical humanitarian sectors such as health, WASH, nutrition, education, child protection, or livelihoods.
- In-depth familiarity with the socio-political, economic, and cultural context of the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly Maniema Province.
- Proficiency in additional local languages spoken in the Kindu region.
Perks & Benefits
- A unique opportunity to make a direct and significant impact on vulnerable communities and children's lives.
- An engaging, challenging, and intellectually stimulating work environment collaborating with diverse international and local teams.
- Continuous professional development and training opportunities to enhance your skills and career growth.
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs to support your well-being.
- Generous leave policy to ensure work-life balance.
- The profound satisfaction of contributing to a global mission of child well-being and justice.
- Valuable local travel opportunities within Maniema Province for critical field visits and community engagement events.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications and are passionate about humanitarian work are strongly encouraged to apply by clicking on the dedicated application link below. Please ensure your comprehensive CV and a compelling cover letter clearly articulate your linguistic capabilities, relevant professional experience, and demonstrate your commitment to working in an NGO setting. We genuinely appreciate all applications received, but kindly note that only shortlisted candidates who best match our requirements will be contacted for further assessment and interviews. World Vision International is a committed equal opportunity employer and deeply values diversity in its workforce. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified individuals, without discrimination. Female candidates and individuals from diverse backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply.