Interpreter- Dari

Church World Service - Winchester, VA

Full-time

Winchester, VA

Social Assistance

About the position

At CWS, the Interpreter plays a crucial role in providing professional communication support and services to refugees. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of those seeking refuge and who possess the necessary skills to facilitate effective communication. The Interpreter will be responsible for offering interpretation and translation services to refugee clients, ensuring that they can navigate their new environment and access essential services. This role may also involve providing transportation to interviews and appointments, with mileage compensation provided by CWS for the use of personal vehicles. Maintaining client confidentiality is paramount, and the Interpreter will advocate on behalf of refugees and refugee-serving voluntary agencies, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. In addition to direct client support, the Interpreter will document all contacts and services in client case files and maintain case note logs. This documentation is vital for tracking progress and ensuring that clients receive the appropriate support. The Interpreter will also be expected to attend trainings and conferences as requested by their supervisor, keeping informed about current refugee and immigrant issues, as well as available services. Representing the program at meetings and speaking engagements is another key responsibility, as is performing all duties in a culturally and linguistically appropriate manner. The role requires flexibility, as the Interpreter will work varied hours, including some nights and weekends, to meet the needs of clients. The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma or equivalent life experience, with previous work experience in interpretation and translation being highly desirable. Cultural sensitivity is essential, as the Interpreter will be working with diverse populations. Strong communication skills are critical, as the role involves listening carefully to instructions, advocating for clients, and maintaining a positive and professional image of CWS. The Interpreter will also need to understand the mission and values of CWS and how they apply to their work, demonstrating sound judgment and taking responsibility for their performance. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the well-being of refugees and to support CWS in achieving its goals.

Responsibilities

• Offer professional interpretation and translation services to refugee clients.
• Provide transportation to interviews and appointments as necessary, with mileage compensation for personal vehicle use.
• Maintain client confidentiality at all times.
• Advocate on behalf of refugees and refugee-serving voluntary agencies.
• Document all contacts and services in client case files and maintain case note logs.
• Attend trainings and conferences as requested by supervisor.
• Keep informed about refugee and immigrant issues and available services to refugees.
• Represent the program at meetings and speaking engagements relevant to the responsibilities of the position.
• Perform all duties in a culturally and linguistically appropriate manner.
• Undertake other duties as assigned.
• Work varied hours, including some night and weekend work.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent life experience.
• Previous work experience in interpretation and translation is desired.
• Cultural sensitivity is essential.
• Superior English verbal and written communication skills are required.
• Fluency in a refugee language is required (Dari).
• Proficiency in MS Word.