Somali Interpreter

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is a neutral, independent humanitarian organisation that protects and assists people affected by armed conflict and internal violence worldwide. It coordinates international responses, works with national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies, and promotes respect for international humanitarian law. The vacancy is for a Somali Interpreter who will enable clear, confidential communication between ICRC staff, detainees, families, authorities and other stakeholders in the field. The interpreter's daily work revolves around oral and written language support. They will provide real‑time interpretation from Somali to English and back during confidential interviews with detainees, institutional briefings, dialogues with authorities, and family‑link activities such as delivering Red Cross messages and visiting families. In addition, they will translate Somali written material, including newspaper articles and correspondence, into English. When required, they will analyse detention conditions, security issues and other protection‑related matters, and contribute reports that inform ICRC operations. The role demands a high level of language proficiency and relevant experience. Candidates must demonstrate C1‑level command of both English and Somali, and possess at least two years of professional experience in a related field. Good physical health verified by a pre‑deployment medical examination is essential, as is a manual‑transmission driving licence. Applicants must be prepared to accept unaccompanied postings for a minimum of twelve months per mission, amounting to at least twenty‑four months overall, and be capable of performing under pressure in potentially hazardous environments. Additional assets include familiarity with other ICRC operational languages (French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese), prior interpreting or translation work, and a university degree in interpretation or translation. A strong humanitarian motivation, open‑mindedness and adaptability are valued. The position is mobile, with deployments in Somalia or Nairobi, Kenya, and a base in Geneva for coordination. Assignments last twelve months, are extendable, and are offered under a maximum‑term contract with a full‑time (100 %) workload. The ICRC provides a two‑week orientation, ongoing in‑house training, attractive social benefits, and the chance to join a talent pool for future humanitarian missions. What the role asks for: - English language at C1 level (must) - Somali language at C1 level (must) - Minimum 2 years professional experience (must) - Good health confirmed by medical check (must) - Manual transmission driving licence (must) - Accept unaccompanied postings of 12 months each (must) - Ability to work under pressure in dangerous settings (must) - Proficiency in other ICRC operational languages (nice-to-have) - Previous interpreter or translator experience (nice-to-have) - University degree in interpretation or translation (nice-to-have) - Strong motivation for humanitarian work (nice-to-have) - Open‑minded and adaptable attitude (nice-to-have)