About the Role
The Department of Basic Education is seeking a dedicated Language Practitioner to join its team in Pretoria. This role plays a crucial part in enhancing communication and ensuring that all departmental documentation is clear, accurate, and accessible to all. By translating documents and providing language support, the Language Practitioner ensures that the public service operates effectively and inclusively, reflecting the diversity of South Africa’s official languages. This position not only aids in the smooth functioning of the department but also reinforces the importance of language in promoting education and community engagement across the nation.
In Pretoria, the Language Practitioner will engage with various stakeholders, conducting research and consultations on translation issues. This role is vital for the development of terminology and language awareness within the department, thus contributing to the implementation of the departmental language policy. Your work will directly impact how effectively the government communicates with the public, making it a significant position within the public service landscape.
About the Department
The Department of Basic Education is committed to providing quality education to all South Africans. Its mission encompasses the promotion of effective teaching and learning, ensuring that every learner has access to educational resources in their preferred language. Working here means being part of an organization that values inclusivity and strives to elevate the educational standards in the country. The department plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of South Africa by fostering an environment where language diversity is celebrated and utilized effectively.
What You’ll Do
- Translate various documents to ensure clear communication across departments.
- Conduct research and consult on language translation issues.
- Edit and proofread translations for accuracy and coherence.
- Assist in terminology development by extracting, defining terms, and providing equivalents.
- Collaborate with stakeholders involved in terminology development.
- Foster language awareness and provide language-related support to departmental employees.
- Monitor the implementation of the departmental language policy.
- Record and file edited documents while liaising with branches on document-related queries.
What You’ll Need
- National Diploma (NQF 6) in Applied Linguistics, Language Practice, or a relevant qualification recognized by SAQA, specializing in Sepedi and translation studies.
- At least one year of experience in language services, translation, or a related field.
- Good understanding of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and relevant language legislation.
- Strong knowledge of translation and editing processes.
- Familiarity with public service policies and administrative procedures.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Proficient in MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Word, Outlook, and internet navigation.
- Innovative, proactive, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
How to Apply
Please refer to the application instructions below.
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Requirements
National Diploma (NQF 6) in Applied Linguistics / Language Practice or relevant qualification, in the related field as recognised by SAQA, with specialisation in Sepedi and translation studies.A minimum of one (1) year experience in language services, translation or a related field.
Understanding the utilisation of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996; the Use of Official Languages Act, 2012 (Act No.
12 of 2012); and the Pan South African Language Board Act, 1995 (Act No.
59 of 1995), among other related legislation.
Knowledge of translation and editing.
Knowledge of public service policies and administration procedures.
Good interpersonal skills, excellent communication skills (written and verbal), as well as analytical, coordination, and stakeholder liaison skills.
Be computer literate with knowledge of MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Word, Outlook, and the Internet.
Possess personal attributes such as being innovative and proactive, be able to gather and analyse information, work independently and in a team, work under pressure, be willing to work long hours, and be responsible and loyal.
Job Duties
Translate documents.Conduct research and consult on translation issues.
Edit and proofread translations.
Provide support in terminology development by extracting and defining terms, as well as providing provisional equivalents.
Collaborate with other terminology development stakeholders.
Create language awareness and provide language-related support to departmental employees.
Provide support in monitoring the implementation of the departmental language policy.
Provide support by editing documents, as well as recording and filing edited documents.
Liaise with branches regarding queries related to documents to be edited.
