Translator in City of London

Newsgathering and Planning sits at the heart of Volant Media's journalism, connecting correspondents, contributors, planning and output teams to deliver distinctive, high-quality content across linear and digital platforms.

Reporting to the Head of Newsgathering & Planning, the Simultaneous Translator is responsible for delivering accurate, fluent and contextually appropriate real-time translation of live news events, interviews, press conferences and breaking news coverage from English into Farsi. Working closely with Editors, Presenters, Correspondents and other editorial colleagues, the Simultaneous Translator plays a critical role in ensuring international and regional news coverage is accessible to Farsi-speaking audiences without compromising accuracy, meaning, tone or editorial integrity.

The role requires exceptional language skills, strong editorial judgement, comprehensive knowledge of current affairs and the ability to interpret complex and rapidly developing information accurately under the pressure of live broadcasting.

Responsibilities

• Provide accurate, fluent and high-quality simultaneous translation of live news events, interviews, press conferences, speeches and breaking news coverage from English, and other languages where possible, into Farsi.
• Preserve the meaning, tone, context and intent of original material while ensuring translations are clear, natural and appropriate for Farsi-speaking audiences.
• Maintain accuracy, neutrality and editorial integrity throughout live translation, particularly during breaking news and other high-pressure situations.
• Remain fully informed about major Iranian, Afghan, regional and international stories to ensure strong contextual understanding and accurate interpretation during live coverage.
• Prepare thoroughly for planned live events by reviewing relevant background material, terminology, names, organisations and other information required to support accurate translation.
• Work closely with Editors, Presenters, Correspondents and other editorial colleagues to support the effective delivery of live coverage.
• Respond quickly and effectively to changes in live coverage, including breaking news, unscheduled interviews and rapidly developing events.
• Identify and immediately flag any editorial, linguistic or contextual concerns arising during translation to the appropriate editorial colleagues.
• Apply sound editorial judgement when translating complex, sensitive or potentially legally significant material.
• Maintain consistently high standards of language, pronunciation, terminology and cultural understanding.
• Support the preparation of background material, terminology guides, translation briefs and other editorial resources where required.
• Contribute to the consistent use of agreed terminology across live output and support colleagues in resolving complex linguistic or translation issues where appropriate.
• Maintain professional composure and concentration during extended periods of live translation and fast-moving breaking news coverage.
• Contribute to editorial preparation and planning discussions where translation requirements or linguistic expertise are relevant to upcoming coverage.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Newsgathering & Planning and other editorial teams to support the delivery of high-quality journalism.
• Ensure all activities are carried out in accordance with Volant Media's editorial guidelines, policies, procedures and compliance requirements.
• Embrace innovation and modern ways of working, including the appropriate use of AI and emerging technologies in accordance with Volant Media policies and standards.
• Support the delivery of high standards of professionalism, editorial excellence and operational effectiveness.
• Other reasonable duties as required.

Requirements

• Proven professional experience in simultaneous translation or interpretation, preferably within a live broadcast, newsroom or other fast-paced media environment.
• Native-level fluency in spoken and written Farsi and excellent spoken and written English.
• Exceptional simultaneous translation and interpretation skills, with the ability to convey meaning, tone and context accurately in real time.
• Excellent editorial judgement and a comprehensive understanding of media law, editorial compliance and broadcast journalism standards.
• Extensive knowledge of Iranian, Afghan, regional and international affairs and a strong understanding of the political, social and cultural issues shaping the regions we cover.
• The ability to process complex information rapidly and deliver accurate, fluent translation under live broadcast conditions.
• Excellent concentration, listening and communication skills.
• The ability to remain calm, focused and accurate during breaking news and other high-pressure situations.
• Strong research skills and the ability to prepare effectively for planned live events, interviews and major news coverage.
• A high level of cultural awareness and sensitivity, with the ability to translate complex or sensitive material appropriately and accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy, fairness and impartiality.
• The ability to work collaboratively with Editors, Presenters, Correspondents and other editorial colleagues.
• Familiarity with newsroom workflows and live broadcast environments.
• Confidence using newsroom, communication and editorial systems.
• The flexibility to work shifts, including nights, weekends and public holidays, as required.
• A willingness to embrace innovation and modern ways of working, including the appropriate use of AI and emerging technologies in accordance with Volant Media policies and standards.
• Commitment to Volant Media's values, editorial principles and mission.

This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its principal accountabilities, incorporating notes of the skills, knowledge and experience required for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.