What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and, at the same time, promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

Purpose of the position

The Protection Translator translates and revises ICRC and external documents. S/he also interprets between Arabic and English during meetings with beneficiaries, authorities (including high-level authorities) and representatives of other organizations as required. S/he works both within and outside places of detention as required.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Translates and revises ICRC and external documents, including confidential documents.
• Interprets in high-level meetings; may be called upon to interpret for, or independently carries out registration and interviews with persons deprived of freedom; maintains contact with detainees’ families; follows up on family messages; responds to requests and compiles allegations.
• Interprets for and otherwise contributes to other operational activities, including registration of individual protection cases (protection of the civilian population).
• Gives information sessions, including to high-level authorities.

Education and experience required

• University degree and/or post-graduate qualification in translation or interpreting.
• Minimum of 6 years professional experience in translation, revision and editing.

Desired profile and skills

• Strongly motivated by humanitarian work.
• Able to work under pressure in a potentially dangerous environment.

Languages

• Native Arabic speaker.
• Excellent written English and Arabic skills.

Our operational & field constraints

• In line with the principle of neutrality, the ICRC does not assign personnel to a country of which they are nationals.
• Candidates must be in good health and will have to do a medical check-up prior to departure in the field.
• Candidates must possess a driving licence (for manual transmission vehicles).
• Candidates must be prepared to accept unaccompanied postings (i.e. no spouse, partner, children or dependents) for the first two missions (minimum 12 months each)  or total of 24 months.

What we offer

• Rewarding work in a humanitarian and multicultural environment.
• A two-week orientation course and other opportunities for further in-house training.
• Attractive social benefits.
• Length of assignment:  12 months.
• The opportunity to join an ICRC talent pool and be considered for future assignments elsewhere 

Please consult this  page for more information on our package offer. 

Additional information

• Type of Position: Mobile
• Type of Contract: Fixed Term Contract.
• Estimated Start Date: Selected candidates will integrate in the pool and will be deployed in the field depending on operational needs.
• Location: Global Field Deployment
• Application Deadline: 31st July 2025

Our values

• At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviors based on these shared values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this page.