TASK AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Performing professional written and oral interpretation and translation activities according to supervisor’s specialisation (e.g. MD, RN, IC, Pharmacy, Mental Health, Lab, Logistics, Operations, HR), ensuring medical confidentiality, neutrality and respect towards patients, collaborators, authorities, military factions and MSF staff.
Performing administrative tasks required by supervisor (arrangement of meetings, minute taking, and follow-up for patient care). Providing necessary feedback to supervisor following discussions and negotiations and. Assisting with report writing (MSF and Government required reports), ensuring that all meeting minutes are recorded and that translated documents are properly filed
Depending on the supervisor’s specialisation and the needs of the respective department, establishing and maintaining professional contacts with relevant authorities and communicating MSF’s messages to MoH counterparts and authorities (specifically related to patient care);
Ensuring that supervisor is aware of cultural nuances when dealing with MoH authorities and counterparts to ensure a good working relationship. Educating supervisor on effective methods of culturally sensitive communication and informing international staff about local customs, tradition, etc. that will help in better communication and understanding of the context.
Immediately informing supervisor of any problems that might be linked to individual behaviour (counterproductive and/or culturally insensitivity) and declaring any “conflict of interest” when asked to translate (e.g. personal involvement).
Upholding MSF’s core principles, values, quality standards and Code of Conduct. Respecting MSF’s identification materials and not abusing their use aside from their intended purposes.
Observing security rules and regulations, NOT putting self and others in danger. Promoting and maintaining MSF quality standards.
CONTEXT SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITIES
Translate documents from / to mission language into a local one upon request.
Translate discussions / meetings/ interviews as requested.
Always keep respect towards patients, collaborators, authorities, military factions, and MSF staff participating in discussions.
Ensure confidentiality of all translation is maintained as directed by the Mission/Project coordination team.
Ensure neutrality and accuracy when translating.
Declare any “conflict of interest” when asked to translate (e.g. personal involvement) which would necessitate using other staff members for translation.
Inform international staff about local customs, tradition, etc., that will help understand better the context and better communicate.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND COMPETENCIES
Education Higher education (health degree would be an asset)
Professional training in translating
Experience Essential at least two years previous working experience. Desirable in MSF or other NGOs
Essential at least two years previous working experience. Desirable in MSF or other NGOs
Languages Mission and local language essential (Dari/Pashto/English)
Knowledge Good computer skills (MS word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook) Desirable computer literacy (word, excel)
Competencies Results and Quality Orientation L1
Teamwork and Cooperation L1
Behavioural Flexibility L1
Commitment to MSF Principles L1
Stress Management L2
How to apply
Follow the below link OR scan the QR code to access the online job application survey. Candidates must fill in the survey in order to be considered for shortlisting: Online Application for QUALIFIED TRANSLATOR - Mazar – Fill out form
- After completing the survey, send the following documents to email: msf-balkh-recruitment@msf.org
1. CV and motivation letter
2. Required diplomas/certificates.
3. National ID card both sides
4. Work certificates.
5. 3 professional references.
The email address given in this online survey must be the same as the one used to send your supporting documents.
The interested candidates must answer the online survey and submit their documents before February 3rd, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
**Only applications completing the online survey and sending supporting documents by email will be treated**
The reference QUALIFIED TRANSLATOR MAZAR must be stated in the email to be valid. If you do not clearly state the position for which you are applying & attach the required diploma & other supporting documents, your application may not be considered.
Only candidates who meet the essential criteria will be shortlisted and contacted.
MSF does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. All applications are free for all candidates, and no one should require any payment or compensation during the recruitment process. May the candidate be asked for any fee, he/she must report to MSF Administration through the recruitment contact.
If you are selected to be part of the reserve pool, it means that MSF has validated you to be called in to work on a temporary basis, as needed. It does not guarantee that you will be offered a contract or a permanent position, even if such a position becomes available. A new recruitment can be done according to the current need.
MSF is focused on ensuring that only those who share and demonstrate our values are recruited to work with us. To ensure we meet these standards, MSF has a zero-tolerance response to abuse, maltreatment, and neglect of any kind. We are committed to safeguarding, protection and fulfilling our duty of care to our patients and the individuals and communities we serve, people working in the organisation, and all those MSF interacts with.
All staffs are required to share this commitment through signing and complying with our Behavioural Commitments and all relevant safeguarding policies.
Furthermore, all offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory reference checks.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Doctors Without Borders) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organisation that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion and natural or man-made disasters to populations in danger in more than 70 countries.
