Interpreter (Arabic-Turkish)

Host entity: IOM Türkiye

Volunteer type: National

Areas of expertise: Communication, advocacy, public information, Community development, Disability, other social inclusion aspects

Application deadline: 11/10/2026

Mission and objectives

Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration and is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. IOM is part of the United Nations system, as a related organization. IOM supports migrants across the world, developing effective responses to the shifting dynamics of migration and, as such, is a key source of advice on migration policy and practice. The organization works in emergency situations, developing the resilience of all people on the move, and particularly those in situations of vulnerability, as well as building capacity within governments to manage all forms and impacts of mobility. The Organization is guided by the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, including upholding human rights for all. Respect for the rights, dignity and well-being of migrants remains paramount.

Assignment context

In coordination with the Labour Migration and Social Inclusion (LMI) Unit, the IOM Protection Unit supports the voluntary and protection-sensitive relocation of Syrians under Temporary Protection and Persons under International Protection within Türkiye to facilitate access to employment opportunities and strengthen long-term socio-economic integration. Through individualized case management, counselling, referrals and tailored relocation assistance, the programme ensures continued access to protection services while reducing protection risks and promoting self-reliance.

Under the overall supervision of the National Protection Officer and the direct supervision of the Senior Project Associate, and in close collaboration with the LMI Unit, the National UN Volunteer (Interpreter) will support the implementation of case management processes and referrals in pilot provinces. The position may require frequent travel and field presence to support programme implementation.

Task description

Under the overall supervision of the National Protection Officer and the direct supervision of the Senior Project Associate, and in close collaboration with the LMI Unit, the National UN Volunteer (Interpreter) will undertake the following tasks:

• Support accurate communication in a common language during interviews, calls and other meetings conducted in-person, by telephone, and/or by video conference by providing verbatim (word for word) interpretation services;
• Provide interpretation services in the preferred language of the beneficiaries without paraphrasing, summarizing, omitting or adding information;
• 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 beneficiaries, when applicable;
• Participate in relevant training sessions on such topics as interpreting for international organizations, respectful terminology and the protection of program beneficiaries, and contribute to terminology lists as requested;
• Be available to be evaluated on the quality of your interpretation by a third party;
• Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor.

Skills and experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Translation, Languages, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field from an accredited academic institution, with at least three years of relevant professional experience, preferably in similar roles OR
Completed High-School degree from an accredited academic institution, with at least four years of relevant working experience, preferably in similar roles.
• Demonstrated interpretation and/or translation experience for international humanitarian organizations, non-government or government institutions/organizations;
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups is an advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to draft and edit translations in writing in the target language;
• Excellent communication skills;
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims

Competencies and values

Values:
• Inclusion and respect for diversity
• Integrity and transparency
• Professionalism
• Empathy
• Courage

Core competencies:
• Teamwork
• Delivering results
• Managing and sharing knowledge
• Accountability
• Communication

Living conditions

This is a volunteer assignment, not employment. By sharing your time, energy, and talents, you can support communities in need and become part of something greater than yourself — a global movement for peace, development, and humanitarian aid. Volunteering strengthens trust, solidarity, and reciprocity among citizens, and it can promote a sense of belonging and purpose.

The assignment will be based in Gaziantep or Kahramanmaraş. The UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging her/his own housing and other living essentials.

The Summary of UNV Entitlement (National UN Volunteer Associate): All paid in local currency

• Current Monthly Living Allowance (MLA): USD 1,488
• Private insurance coverage by CIGNA
Note to citizens of Türkiye: As per UN’s diplomatic mission status, it is not included in National Security Institution’s (SGK) system but can be only initiated on private basis.
• Entry allowance (one-time payment): USD 200
• Free access to different learning platforms and the UN & UNV network

Notes:
1) The allowances are in no way to be understood as a compensation, reward or salary in exchange for the volunteer work.
2) It's important to note that UNV assignments are volunteer assignments, not employment. The purpose of the allowances and entitlements paid to UN Volunteers is to enable UN Volunteers to sustain a secure standard of living at the duty stations in line with United Nations standards without incurring personal costs.
3) You can check full entitlements at the duty station: https://app.unv.org/calculator
4) Please read the complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service is available at https://explore.unv.org/cos
5) An additional IOM security clearance for the shortlisted candidates may be required for this assignment.

Full eligibility requirements, conditions of service and application instructions are available on the official UNV platform.