International Committee of the Red Cross - ICRC
International Committee of the Red Cross - ICRC
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is a global humanitarian organization working to protect and assist people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. Since its founding in 1863, the ICRC has operated according to the principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence. Its work spans healthcare, emergency response, logistics, humanitarian consulting, and efforts to promote respect for international humanitarian law, with teams supporting communities in need around the world.

Arabic Interpreter — ICRC, Switzerland (On-site Contract)

Support confidential humanitarian operations as an Arabic-English interpreter with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Switzerland. The role combines field interpretation, written translation, detention-related reporting, and family-links support.

Description

  • Interpret between Arabic and English during confidential interviews with people deprived of liberty
  • Interpret ICRC presentations and discussions with government authorities
  • Assist family-links work by delivering Red Cross messages, tracing relatives, and visiting detainees’ families
  • Translate Arabic newspapers, correspondence, and other materials into English
  • Assess and report on detention conditions, security issues, and matters connected to the ICRC mandate
  • Contribute to additional protection activities when required
  • Engage with authorities, partner-organization representatives, and beneficiaries inside and outside detention facilities
  • Build operational contact networks as needed
  • Coordinate internally with colleagues across other departments

Requirements

  • C1-level English proficiency is required
  • C1-level Arabic proficiency is required
  • Knowledge of another ICRC operational language—English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, or Portuguese—is a strong advantage
  • At least two years of professional experience
  • Prior interpreting or translation experience is advantageous
  • Demonstrated commitment to humanitarian work
  • Capacity to perform under pressure in potentially dangerous conditions
  • An open-minded and adaptable approach
  • Good health and completion of a medical examination before field departure
  • A driving licence for manual-transmission vehicles
  • Willingness to undertake unaccompanied postings for the first two missions, lasting at least 12 months each or 24 months in total
  • University-level education or a degree in interpreting or translation is advantageous

Benefits

  • Two-week introductory orientation course
  • Additional opportunities for internal training
  • Attractive social benefits
  • Eligibility for the ICRC talent pool and consideration for future assignments in other locations
  • Meaningful work in a multicultural humanitarian setting
  • Inclusive workplace environment
  • Opportunities for global deployment

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