Language Translations Specialist -Somali - State Program Administrator

Working Title: Language Translations Specialist - Somali Job Class: State Program Administrator Agency: Administration Dept Job ID : 80739 Location : St. Paul Telework Eligible : Yes Full/Part Time : Full-Time Regular/Temporary : Unlimited Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted : 10/07/2024 Closing Date : Open until filled. First review of applications/resumes to begin after 10/21/2024. Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Administration Dept / Administration-MAPE Division/Unit : Translations Office Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift Days of Work : Monday - Friday Travel Required : No Salary Range: $23.63 - $34.18 / hourly; $49,339 - $71,367 / annually Classified Status : Classified Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status : Non-exempt Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : Yes - applications will be reviewed in batches The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities. For government services to be truly effective, they must be accessible to all residents. Removing language barriers is essential to high quality public service. This is the founding principle of the State of Minnesota's Enterprise Translations Office (ETO), established in 2023 to provide dedicated translation services for the state's Executive Branch. We are seeking a Somali Language Translations Specialist to provide high quality translation services for Minnesota’s state agencies and departments. In this role, you will accurately translate documents and materials from English into the targeted language and vice versa ensuring that they are linguistically correct, culturally relevant, and accessible to diverse communities within the state. This role involves a keen understanding of linguistic nuances, desired language proficiency, and the ability to maintain the integrity of the original message while adapting it to the target language. Language proficiency in Somali will be required. With a division that is less than one (1) year old, you will need to think innovatively, creatively, and solve problems identifying ambiguities or inconsistencies in source materials, balancing linguistic precision with cultural sensitivity, and contributing to the ongoing evolution of translation practices within ETO. In addition, through improved translation, ETO is expanding access to government services, especially for communities that have traditionally been left out. This vital work will help break down traditional language barriers and create more accessibility and inclusion for Minnesota's diverse communities. To promote a culture of flexibility, we offer staff a hybrid work environment that varies by team, position, and business needs. With a telework arrangement, onsite attendance may be required for team meetings or as requested by management to meet business needs. At this time, one (1) onsite day per week is required. Completion of a telework agreement will be required. Minimum Qualifications Applicants must demonstrate language proficiency in Somali. Two (2) years of experience translating text between English and Somali. An Associate degree in a field that demonstrates and supports language proficiency in Somali may be substituted for six (6) months of experience. Additionally, applicants will be further assessed for the following: In-depth knowledge of Somali and English, including grammar, idioms, colloquial expressions and nuances, and cultural considerations in multilingual communication. Proficiency in accurately and efficiently translating a wide range of materials, including legal, medical, and educational materials. Familiarity with various translation methodologies and best practices to maintain the integrity of the original message. Some familiarity with translation software tools including artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and general office software (such as Microsoft Office applications: Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, and SharePoint). Interpersonal and human relations skills to work positively and effectively with stakeholders, partners, and customers. Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities, new technologies, and evolving best practices. Cultural competency, sensitivity, and awareness of cultural differences, which are vital in ensuring translations are not only technically accurate but also culturally appropriate. Preferred Qualifications Language proficiency certification OR ability to obtain a language proficiency certification in the future. Flexibility to adapt to changes in workflows, software tools, and translation assignments. Ability to concentrate on precise material for extended periods to ensure translated materials are accurate and error-free. Good time management skills to manage workload under tight deadlines and pressure. Ability to work independently and as part of team fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. Champion change by continuously seeking and examining best practices. Additional Requirements Successful applicants must pass a criminal background check through American Databank and employment reference checks prior to employment. Additionally, as part of the interviewing and screening process, selected applicants will participate in a language proficiency evaluation. This practical assessment will consist of a conversation with one of our team members in the required language. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status. Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] . Please indicate what assistance is needed.