Sign Language Interpretation

Host entity: UNRCO

Application deadline: 18/09/2026

Mission and objectives

MISSION OF UNRCO IN ZIMBABWE & OVERVIEW OF FUNCTIONS :

The Resident Coordination (RC) system aims to bring together the different UN agencies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operational activities at the country level. It comprises a series of global, regional and country-level working mechanisms that provide guidance and support the work of UN Resident Coordinators around the world.

The UN Resident Coordinator (RC) leads the Resident Coordinator System at the country level and represents the UN Secretary General to the Government of Zimbabwe. The RC, as the highest-ranking senior UN official in the country, is the primary interlocutor for the UN Development System with the Head of State and Government.

In Zimbabwe, the RC is responsible for coordinating and providing leadership to the UN Country Team (UNCT) in strategy setting, planning, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of development programmes at the country level as outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2022-2026, which will direct the country’s development priorities over the next years.

The RC also provides leadership on joint communications, advocacy, and resource mobilization efforts. In Zimbabwe, the RC is also the Humanitarian Coordinator, Designated Official for Safety and Security, and Director of the UN Information Centre.

Assignment context

The UN Resident Coordinator's Office is convening an interactive engagement meeting with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and the UN Resident Coordinator (RC). The primary purpose of this meeting is to establish direct rapport, foster mutual understanding, and create a collaborative dialogue between OPDs leadership and the UN RC.
This meeting will serve as a dedicated platform for OPDs to share their core advocacy priorities and community realities, for the RC to outline the UN’s commitment to disability-inclusive development, and for both parties to explore concrete ways to support each other moving forward.

Task description

We are seeking an Online Volunteer to provide sign language interpretation services for a one-day meeting, as well as support during pre- and post-meeting sessions, focused on the UN Resident Coordinator's engagement with the leadership of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs).

• Providing live, real-time sign language interpretation during the meeting with OPD stakeholders.

The Online Volunteer will gain insights into UN frameworks on inclusive communication and build connections with UN Volunteers and OPD partners.

Skills and experience

• Technical Skills: Professional experience in Sign Language Interpretation (National or International Sign Language). Prior experience interpreting in formal, academic, or policy-focused settings is highly desirable.
• Domain Knowledge: Basic familiarity with disability inclusion, gender equality, or human rights concepts.
• Core Competencies: High degree of professionalism, adherence to interpreter code of ethics (confidentiality, impartiality), and strong communication skills.
• Technical Setup: Reliable internet connection, web camera, and a quiet background setup suitable for live virtual interpretation.

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