Interpreter and Translator

1. Introduction

The International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) is seeking qualified service providers for the provision of Interpretation and Translation Services in Istanbul and Ankara. This call aims to support ICMC’s operations, including its Resettlement Support Center (RSC) for the United States resettlement program and Resettlement Support Facility (RSF) for various European resettlement programs.

Interpreters and translators play a pivotal role in achieving ICMC’s mission, ensuring effective communication with refugees and stakeholders.

2. Scope of Services

Service providers will be responsible for delivering interpretation and translation services, including but not limited to:

• Interpretation during refugee interviews, orientations, medical examinations, and other relevant settings in Istanbul and Ankara.
• Translation of documents such as ID cards, medical/police/court reports, and other materials from the target language into English.
• Accompanying refugees at ICMC or other designated sites as needed.
• Performing additional job-relevant tasks as required.

3. General Requirements

3.1 Qualifications and Competencies

• Native speaker of at least one of the target languages: Arabic, Dari-Farsi-Tajik, Kurmanji, Pashto, Sorani, Somali, Uzbek.
• Excellent command of English is required. Knowledge of French and/or Turkish is an asset.
• Familiarity with appropriate terminology and the ability to explain idiomatic expressions and cultural nuances.
• Ability to process information quickly and concisely, with strong listening and retention skills.
• University degree or current enrollment in a degree program.
• Understanding of common NGO procedures and practices is an asset.
• Prior interpretation/translation experience is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment.

3.2 Behavioral Competencies/Skills

• Strict adherence to ICMC’s Interpreter Code of Ethics, which includes:
  • Accuracy in interpretation and translation
  • Linguistic competence
  • Clarity of role boundaries
  • Confidentiality
  • Impartiality and neutrality
  • Professional conduct and development
  • Reporting unethical conduct
• Adaptability in different work environments.
• Strong communication skills and professional demeanor.
• Punctuality and presentability.

3.3 Technical Competencies/Skills

• Proficient in listening, reading, writing, and speaking both in English and the target language.
• Strong memory and vocabulary for accurate interpretation.
• General knowledge of the culture, history, politics, and geography of the refugees’ countries of origin.

4. Pay Structure

The payment structure is divided into two grades based on experience and qualifications:

• Grade 1:
  • Daily rate: US$100 (excluding taxes)
  • Hourly rate: US$12.50 (excluding taxes)
• Grade 2:
  • Daily rate: US$160 (excluding taxes)
  • Hourly rate: US$20.00 (excluding taxes)

Interpreters are typically scheduled for eight-hour days, and daily rates will apply. For workdays that are shorter or longer than eight hours, hourly rates will be applied.

5. Evaluation Criteria

The evaluation of candidates will be based on the following criteria:

1. Qualification of Interpreters – Experience, language proficiency, and adherence to the required skills and knowledge.
2. Service Delivery Plan – Ability to meet the requirements, including location availability and scheduling flexibility.
3. References – Past performance and relevant experience, including previous work with NGOs or refugee programs.
4. Cost Proposal – Competitive and transparent pricing, aligned with the pay structure outlined above.

6. Submission Guidelines

Interested service providers are required to submit the following:

1. Company Profile – A detailed overview of the service provider, including experience in delivering interpretation and translation services.
2. Interpreter Qualifications – CVs of the interpreters who will be engaged in the project, outlining relevant experience and language proficiency.
3. Service Delivery Plan – An outline of how the services will be provided, including timelines, availability, and staffing arrangements.
4. Pricing Proposal – A detailed pricing breakdown for both Grade 1 and Grade 2 interpreters, including daily and hourly rates.
5. References – At least two references from previous clients for whom similar services were provided.

7. Submission Deadline

All applications must be submitted by 15 December 2024. Late submissions will not be considered.

8. Contact Information

For further information or clarification, please contact: [email protected]