Burmese Interpreter

Purpose Language is at the heart of humanitarian action; it enables dialogue, builds trust, and ensures that people affected by conflict can express themselves and be heard. The ICRC Interpreter plays a critical role in enabling this by facilitating accurate and meaningful communication among ICRC delegates, affected populations, authorities, and other stakeholders. Through interpretation in sensitive and complex contexts, including protection activities, visits to detainees, family reunification processes, and dialogue with parties to conflict, the Interpreter ensures that every conversation can take place with clarity, respect, and confidentiality. This is a unique, people-centered role that goes beyond translating words. It requires judgment, cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of the humanitarian principles guiding the ICRC’s work, helping build bridges of understanding where communication can make a real difference. Accountabilities & Functional responsibilities Oral interpretation: from Burmese to English and vice versa during confidential interviews with people deprived of liberty, ICRC institutional dissemination, ICRC dialogue with authorities, activities to establish the family links which includes delivering Red Cross messages, family tracing and visits to families of detainees. Written translation: translation of Burmese language (newspaper articles, correspondence, etc.) into written English. Analysis and reporting as required: analysis of conditions of detention, security and other matters relating to the ICRC's mandate. Can be asked to provide support on other protection activities as needed. Relationships Externally, interacts with the authorities, representatives of other organizations and beneficiaries, both within and outside places of detention. May be called upon to develop a network of contacts related to operational needs. Internally, interacts with staff in other departments.

Required profile and skills Excellent command of English (C1) required Excellent command of Burmese (C1) required Proficiency in other ICRC operational languages (French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese) is a strong asset. 2 years of professional experience. Previous interpreter or translator experience is an advantage. Strongly motivated by humanitarian work. Able to work under pressure in a potentially dangerous environment. Open-minded and adaptable. University education/degree in interpretation or translation is an advantage.