Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the Russian Interpretation Section of the Interpretation Service, Department for General Assembly and Conference Management (DGACM) at Headquarters, New York. Under the general supervision of the Chief of the Interpretation Service and the direct supervision of the Chief of the Russian Interpretation Section, the incumbent will provide interpretation for all inter-governmental and other meetings at the United Nations.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Interpreter will be responsible for the following duties: • Provides interpretation, as required, into Russian of speeches or statements given in two other official languages. • Services up to seven meetings per week (exceptionally eight), usually of no more than three hours duration, of various United Nations bodies. • Routinely covers sensitive meetings. • Routinely functions as team leader of all interpreters assigned to a given meeting. • May instruct and advise interpreter trainees. • 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. Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; Places team agenda before personal agenda; Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings 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 United Nations Language Competitive Examination for Russian Interpreters.

Job – Specific Qualification

Having passed the United Nations Competitive Examination for Russian Interpreters is required.

Work Experience

At least five (5) years of professional interpreting experience in international organizations is required. Experience providing accurate interpretation in a broad range of United Nations subjects is desirable.

Languages

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