Interpreter (Dari and Pashto)

On behalf of the MOD, we are looking for x20 Interpreters (Inside IR35) to join our client on an ad hoc basis contract that runs up until 31st March, 2026 in Whitehall London.
As an Interpreter for DARR you will play a pivotal role in facilitating effective written communication between DARR staff and our customers who speak Dari and Pashto. Your exceptional language proficiency, cultural sensitivity, and strong interpersonal skills will be instrumental in bridging linguistic gaps, enabling successful written interactions with ARAP customers, and case work resolution.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is a central government department with a mission to protect our country and provide the ultimate guarantee of its security and independence, as well as helping to protect its values and interests abroad.
To do this we have an annual budget of almost £40 billion and a workforce comprising 193,000 people, almost 59,000 of whom are civilians. We currently manage more than £11 billion of spend every year.
Our work really matters; we offer engaging roles which have a direct impact on the quality of services we provide. We employ people in many different roles and in many locations across the UK and abroad. We have jobs in policy, finance, HR, IS/IT, commercial and project management and all the types of jobs you would expect to find in a government department, or indeed in the private sector. We also employ doctors, dentists, teachers, police, fire service, quantity surveyors, and engineers to name a few. There are many opportunities to develop and progress both within MOD and across the wider Civil Service, whether you’re a permanent appointee or an interim.
**As a Interpreter, your main responsibilities will be**:

- Interpretation Services: Provide accurate and timely translations of Afghan documents and ability to translate to English and vice versa.
- Cultural Competence: Possess a deep understanding and appreciation of cultural nuances to ensure the accurate transmission of meanings during translation.
- Active Listening: If and when, required, actively listen and comprehend the speaker's message, conveying the intended meaning faithfully while maintaining impartiality and professionalism.
- Confidentiality: Maintain the highest level of confidentiality and integrity, safeguarding sensitive information encountered during interpretation assignments.
- Note-Taking: if required effectively take notes during interpretation to assist in conveying complex or lengthy information accurately.
- Team Collaboration: Collaborate with other interpreters and language professionals to share insights, improve skills, and enhance overall service quality.
- Continuous Professional Development: Engage in ongoing training and professional development to stay updated with language trends, MOD best practices, and relevant technology.

**Essential**:

- Language Proficiency: Fluency in Dari and Pashto, demonstrated through formal education or professional experience.
- Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, coupled with the ability to remain composed under pressure and adapt to various speaking styles.
- Cultural Awareness: Deep understanding of cultural differences and sensitivities, with a strong commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding.
- Knows formal documentation to recognise if genuine.
- Knowledge of military units/locations in Afghan would be highly desirable.
- Professional Experience: Proven experience in interpretation services is desirable.
- Technology Aptitude: Familiarity with Microsoft and willingness to learn how to use the DARR platforms.
- Punctuality and Reliability: A track record of punctuality and dependability
- Dual nationals are acceptable for this role, as long as one nationality is UK

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not overseas.
Disability Confident
Armed Forces Covenant