Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the French Interpretation Section, Interpretation Service, Department for General Assembly and Conference Services (DGACM), New York. Under the general supervision of the Chief of Interpretation Service and the direct supervision of the Chief of the French Interpretation Section, the incumbent provides interpretation for all intergovernmental and other meetings at the United Nations.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Interpreter will be responsible for the following duties: • Services up to seven meetings per week (exceptionally eight), usually of no more than three hours duration. • Provides interpretation into French of speeches or statements given in English, Russian and/or Spanish. • Routinely covers sensitive meetings. • Routinely functions as team leader of all interpreters assigned to a given meeting. • May assist in the screening, training, and examining of prospective French interpreters. • May provide guidance and coaching to junior interpreters. • May function as Programming Officer. • May perform other related duties, as required.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM: Ability to demonstrate a high level of concentration; split-second accuracy. Ability to work under continuous stress and deliver clear interpretation on an exceedingly broad range of subjects. 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. COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors’ language, tone, style, and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS LEARNING: Keeps abreast of new developments in own occupation/profession; actively seeks to develop oneself professionally and personally; contributes to the learning of colleagues and subordinates; shows willingness to learn from others; seeks feedback to learn and improve.

Education

A first level degree from a university or from an institution of equivalent status is required. A Master’s degree is desirable. Candidates for this position must have passed the French United Nations Language Competitive Examination for French Interpreters.

Job – Specific Qualification

A Master’s degree is desirable. A first level degree from a university or from an institution of equivalent status is required. Having passed the United Nations Competitive Examination for French Interpreters is required.

Work Experience

At least five (5) years of professional interpreting experience in international organizations is required. Experience providing accurate interpretation of a broad range of UN subjects is desirable. Experience in training and coaching interpreter trainees and junior staff interpreters is desirable. Experience in grading interpretation exams and/or assessing freelance colleagues’ performance is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages in the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency / perfect command of French, normally expected to be the incumbent’s main language is required. Candidates for this position must also possess an excellent knowledge of English, Russian and/or Spanish. NOTE: “fluency equals a rating of “fluent” in all four areas (read, write, speak, understand) and ” Knowledge of” equals a rating of ” confident” in two of the four areas.