Translator/Interpreter will provide language support services to facilitate communication and understanding between Lao national staff and international staff involved in UXO clearance operations and HQ support. The role involves interpreting spoken communication and translating written documents to ensure accurate and effective communication in support of the programme’s objectives.  

They  will be required to work a monthly work cycle (23 days work per month) in Sepon, both in the office and in the field sometimes in remote camps. There will be travel required in the job and translator will need to be flexible to meet the requirements of the staff of the programme.

They are to lead by example and support other staff in the programme. As a member of HALO staff, they will work closely with others and as an example of HALO’s good working practice, always working hard to ensure the job is done and upholding HALO’s reputation. 

At all times all HALO Trust employees are expected to:

• Behave and perform duties to a high standard
• Build and maintain good relations with the local communities that we work in and work to help
• Work well with others and always support our HALO colleagues and respect each other
• Maintain a professional approach, always behaving professionally and wearing HALO uniform.

• Fluency in written and spoken English
• Degree in relevant field (e.g., English, international relations)
• Experience in translation, preferably in an NGO, humanitarian, or development context
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint)
• Have a hardworking and flexible approach
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail
• Be willing to sometimes do different tasks and help others
• Be good at working in a team
• Patient and understanding
• Fast learner
• Ability to work under pressure.

The Translator will be responsible for:

• Acting as an interpreter between Lao / English staff in both the office and the field
• Interpreting for visitors to the programme
• Providing translation of formal and informal letters, SOPs, documents, policies, invitations and other working documents as required
• Assisting with translation for educational training and courses
• Facilitate effective communication between departments and field staff
• Maintain organized records of all translated materials
• Assisting with other administrative tasks as required by head interpreter

The HALO Trust team in Sepon works on a cycle basis. Typically working 22-23 days at the start of the month, with the remainder of the month as standdown. HALO works a short cycle during April with an extended break for public holidays. 

Some regional work travel across Savannakhet may be required. Accommodation provision while working away from home, food allowance, travel cost reimbursement and overtime working are detailed in HALO policies and can be explained during interview. If you are interested in this position, please send your CV and cover letter with the subject line 'Translator/Interpreter' to: hr@halolaos.org, and CC to: yeechang.chongxeng@halolaos.org. For more details, please contact Mr. Yeechang, the HR Manager by 02076500055. 

The application deadline for this position is within one week. As this is an urgent hiring need, we will conduct interviews and may close the application process as soon as a suitable candidate is identified. 

This position is based at the Sepon Office in Savannakhet Province, Lao PDR, and will require occasional travel to areas within the target province.