About the position
Postion Summary:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) seeks to make an appointment for the position of Language Policy Specialist who will be responsible for facilitating the establishment of the NRF Language Unit and implementation of the NRF Language Policy including utilisation of all South African official languages across NRF entities (Corporate, Business Units and National Facilities).
Key Responsibilities:
- Facilitate and oversee the review of the NRF Language Policy until approval as guided by the NRF Policy on PoliciesConsult with each Business Unit and National Facility to ensure the most spoken language(s) in their area of operation are incorporated in the engagement with local communitiesLiaise with PanSALB to ensure the NRF Policy aligns with relevant government legislationEstablish, thereafter, manage the Language Unit in accordance with approved guidelines and strategiesDevelop an operational plan with clear outputs, products and services and Standard Operating ProceduresDrive implementation of the Language Policy across the organisationEnsure Corporate statutory reports are fully compliant with the Language Policy as it applies to themSupport the internal communications by monitoring and facilitating the correct application of approved languages in organisational communications across all NRF entities
- Develop internal stakeholder engagement planDevelop an awareness campaign with clear objectives and timelines, to nurture linguistic diversity as part of the organizational culture and as guided by the Language PolicyCoordinate and oversee the day-to-day running of the Language Unit including translations, editing, proofreading and quality assurance of written content (notices, posters, forewords, signage etc
- ) aimed at Institutional image building and branding
- Either offer the services inhouse or outsource to a qualified service provider
Minimum Qualification:
- Bachelors Degree / Advanced Diploma / NQF 7
Minimum Experience:
- Degree in African Languages/Translation Studies/Linguistics/Language Practice or related
- An honours degree will be an added advantage Proficiency in at least two/three African Languages will be an added advantageAt least 7 years’ experience in a similar role (Language Unit) and of which (3) years or more of progressive language policy implementation is preferred
Experience:
- Conflict ManagementContract developmentProblem solving skillsTime Management skillsOutstanding business writing skillsStakeholder managementExcellent organisational skillsOutstanding written and oral communication skillsProject Management skillsFinancial Management skillsAbility to effectively interact with people of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgroundsStrong Leadership skillsGood interpersonal skillsLinguistic skillProfessional presentations skills
Knowledge:
- Understanding of the South African Multilingual Policy legislative prescripts and frameworks and its significance in the higher education/research/science and innovation environmentAbility to work independently and as a member of a team and proven evidence of ability to establish positive and respectful working relationships with employees and statutory bodiesunderstanding of public, research and/or academic sectorExperience in project management or coordination within a translation or language studio
- Proficiency in translation software and other relevant tools
The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant·s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Desired Skills:
- Skilled in applied field of position
- Knowledge to be relevant
- Responsible in performing duties
About The Employer:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) is established by an Act of Parliament and mandated to contribute to national development by supporting, promoting and advancing research and human capacity development, through funding and the provision of the necessary research infrastructure, in order to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including humanities, social sciences and indigenous knowledge; and supporting and promoting public awareness of, and engagement with, science. The NRF is a well-established organisation that is highly networked within the knowledge system, nationally and internationally. It is the principal organisation responsible for promoting the national research enterprise and is the primary public funder of postgraduate students and researchers and provider of research infrastructure in the country. It has well-developed, best practice research evaluation and support systems.
