Translator, Arabic at United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON)

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Chief of Unit, the incumbent will perform the following:

• Translates, generally subject to revision, from two other UN official languages into the language of the Unit texts covering a broad range of subjects dealt with by the United Nations, often within demanding time limits.
• Identifies new terminology material and submits it for consideration of the revisers.
• Counsels in-house and contractual translators with a view to refining skills and performance and helps maintain uniformity of terminology in the unit.
• Performs other related linguistic and administrative duties and special assignments as required.

Competencies

• PROFESSIONALISM: Ability to demonstrate good writing skills; high standard of accuracy, consistency to the style and nuances of the original text with a good grasp of the subject matter. Knowledge of a broad range of subjects such as political, social, legal, economic, financial, administrative, scientific and technical. Ability to use all sources of references, consultation and information relevant to text at hand. Ability to work under pressure and maintain adequate speed and volume of output. Ability to show a high level of versatility, judgement and discretion. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
• TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
• TECHNOLOGICAL AWARENESS: Keeps abreast of available technology; understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the office; actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks; shows willingness to learn new technology.

Education

• A first-level degree from a university or institution of equivalent status is required. Candidates for this position must have passed the relevant combined United Nations Language Competitive Examination for Translators/Précis-writers, Editors, Verbatim Reporters and Copy Preparers/Proofreaders/Production Editors or relevant United Nations language competitive examinations held before 2017.

Work Experience

• A minimum of two years of experience in translation, précis-writing, editing, self-revision, verbatim reporting, copy preparing, proofreading or production editing is required
• Experience in the use of standard computer-assisted-translation (CAT) tools is required.

Languages

• English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, fluency in Arabic, which must be the candidate’s main language is required. Applicants must also have knowledge of English as tested by the relevant United Nations language competitive examination. Knowledge of one other official United Nations language as tested by the relevant United Nations language competitive examination is desirable.

Closing date 15 May 2022