About Company
World Vision Zimbabwe is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Operating in Zimbabwe for over 50 years, we are committed to improving the lives of the most vulnerable, regardless of their religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. Our programs focus on child protection, education, health and nutrition, livelihoods, and emergency response, aiming for sustainable development and resilience in communities across the nation. With a strong presence in Matabeleland South Province, World Vision strives to empower local communities through collaborative partnerships and culturally sensitive interventions, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. Join us in making a lasting impact and transforming lives.
Job Description
World Vision Zimbabwe is seeking a highly skilled and compassionate English Interpreter to join our dedicated team in Plumtree, Matabeleland South Province. In this crucial role, you will serve as a vital link between our international and national staff and the local communities we serve, primarily facilitating communication between English speakers and speakers of local languages such as Ndebele or Shona. Your expertise will enable seamless understanding in various settings, including community meetings, focus group discussions, interviews, workshops, and official communications. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional linguistic abilities, a deep understanding of cultural nuances, and a steadfast commitment to World Vision’s mission.
This position requires not only accurate verbal interpretation but also the ability to translate documents, reports, and informational materials, ensuring clarity, consistency, and cultural appropriateness. You will play a key role in ensuring that the voices of the communities are heard and understood, and that World Vision’s messages are effectively conveyed, thereby contributing directly to the success of our development and humanitarian programs. We are looking for an individual who is not only proficient in languages but also possesses a strong sense of empathy, discretion, and an unwavering commitment to ethical practice. If you are passionate about bridging communication gaps and empowering communities, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide accurate and culturally appropriate consecutive and, at times, simultaneous interpretation between English and local languages (Ndebele and/or Shona) during meetings, workshops, field visits, focus group discussions, and one-on-one interviews.
- Translate a variety of documents, reports, proposals, training materials, advocacy briefs, and correspondence from English into local languages and vice-versa, maintaining accuracy, nuance, and contextual relevance.
- Act as a cultural liaison, bridging communication gaps and fostering mutual understanding and trust between World Vision staff, partners, and community members.
- Ensure strict confidentiality, impartiality, and ethical conduct in all interpretation and translation tasks, adhering to professional standards.
- Assist in clarifying cultural references, customs, and practices to facilitate effective communication and enhance the sensitivity and impact of program implementation.
- Support field teams in engaging with communities, ensuring that program information is clearly understood and that community feedback, concerns, and insights are accurately captured and conveyed.
- Maintain detailed records of translation and interpretation activities as required.
- Contribute to the development of culturally appropriate communication materials.
Required Skills
- Exceptional fluency in written and spoken English, Ndebele, and Shona.
- Proven experience in interpretation and translation, preferably in a humanitarian, development, or community engagement context.
- Strong understanding of cultural sensitivities and local customs prevailing in Matabeleland South Province.
- Excellent interpersonal, cross-cultural communication, and active listening skills.
- High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism in handling sensitive information.
- Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, multicultural environment.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Preferred Qualifications
- A diploma or degree in Linguistics, Translation, Communication, or a closely related field.
- Previous experience working with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or community development projects.
- Familiarity with humanitarian principles and ethical guidelines for interpreters.
- Experience in simultaneous interpretation settings.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Robust health insurance coverage.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
- Extensive opportunities for professional development and continuous training in language and humanitarian aid.
- A chance to make a tangible and meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children and communities.
- Supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunities for career growth within a global organization.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter clearly outline your relevant experience and qualifications for this role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.