Back-up Translation Project Manager
About UsMCIS Language Solutions is a not-for-profit that has evolved into a social enterprise and has been relentlessly pursuing its goal to remove language barriers for over 30 years. With over 60 full time staff and engaging a roster of over 6,000 language professionals, MCIS provides a full suite of language solutions: from language interpretation, translation and transcription to localization, training, and training development for government, legal, police services and healthcare organizations in more than 300 languages.VISION | To connect people globally through languages.MISSION | To advocate for language rights and equitable access to critical information and services through language solutions and human connections.VALUES | Making a Difference, Compassion and Collaboration, Integrity and Innovation, Social Justice.
Social PurposeEvery year MCIS invests some of its net income into initiatives that support free services for vulnerable populations, training subsidies for aspiring interpreters and translators, and language advocacy initiatives such as the Our Language Rights Canada Conference on Canadian Language Advocacy Day.Our Social Purpose Statement is that we exist to uphold the human right to be informed, heard, and understood. Language rights protect the rights of individuals and groups to choose which language(s) they use in private as well as in public interactions, such as legal, health, educational or political access to information and services.Learn more here: MCIS Social Purpose Journey
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Important Note: This is an on-call position, providing back-up coverage for MCIS’ Translation Department as needed. It is an ideal position for self-employed language professionals who would also like to gain experience in translation project management, while maintaining a freelance work arrangement. Availability during office hours (weekdays 8:00am-6:00pm ET) is required. Evening and weekend availability is a definite asset.
During the initial two weeks period, the new hire is expected to be available from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm during weekdays to successfully complete the onboarding and training process.
Directly reporting to the Translation Manager, the Back-up Project Manager is responsible for all activities related to the translation and related language services provided by the organization.
The Back-up Project Manager role is comprised of two (2) main activities as follows:
Project Management
- Responding to inbound calls and emails; Route calls and emails to appropriate resources.
- Take customer orders for translation and related language services.
- Identify customer needs and prepare quotes on translation and other related language services requests and respond to all sales inquiries on a timely basis.
- Actively promote MCIS translation and related language services to potential users/clients.
- Provide solicited and unsolicited information to customers, sub-contractors and the public concerning services, schedules, rates, regulations and policies.
- Contact translators to fulfill customer orders, providing to them full information on the project.
- Support translators and other language professionals in conducting their activities by responding to inquiries, providing reference information, mediating disputes etc.
- Contact partner agencies and/or source translators from various avenues if translator needed is not found on the MCIS roster.
- Review the translated documents from the translator and make appropriate changes to ensure accuracy of content or right formatting on an as needed basis.
- Ensure compliance with language industry certifications, specifically the Canadian Translation Standard (CGSB 131.10) and the ISO: 17 100 Translation Standard, and all other applicable quality standards.
- Ensure customer satisfaction/quality, addressing issues, concerns, etc. – escalate issues to Translation Manager, as required.
- Follow SOPs and escalate non-standard situations to the Translation Manager.
Administration & Reporting-
Enter customer information in appropriate databases/files and ensure information is up to date.
- Manage and use the translation management and computer assisted translation softwares and assist in determining suitability/uses for new developments.
- Prepare weekly/monthly reports for the Translation Manager, as required.
- Prepare monthly invoices for clients.
- Work closely with the Translation Manager to ensure data integrity of reports and information submitted to the Finance Department.
- Develop and maintain accurate files for Translation Department.
- Support other projects in the Translation Department as needed.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
The Project Manager must have a general post-secondary education (university degree/college diploma; Linguistics or Translation degree preferred), or a combination of experience and training.
Other skills:-
Ability to work independently with initiative and leadership.
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An authentic team player with problem-solving and resourcefulness skills needed.
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Interpersonal, analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills and positive attitude.
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Demonstrated aptitude for continuous learning and innovative thinking.
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Proficiency in diverse computer applications including Microsoft Office and Internet search engines.
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Familiarity with computer assisted translation tools and graphic design software is an asset.
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Knowledge of and/or experience with localization project management is a definite asset.
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Knowledge of and/or experience with machine translation and post-editing project management is a definite asset.
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Knowledge of languages and world cultures is a definite asset; and,
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Fluency in French is a definite asset.
EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
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Translation Project Management: The ability to proficiently orchestrate and supervise the comprehensive workflow of translating content between languages. This competency encompasses skillful coordination of translation teams, effective communication with clients, strategic resource allocation, meticulous quality assurance, and the ability to ensure timely project delivery.
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Attention to Detail: The ability to consistently and accurately accomplish tasks with thoroughness and precision. This competency involves paying close attention to small details, spotting errors, and ensuring high-quality work that meets organizational standards.
- Use of Internal Systems and Tools: Proficiency in effectively utilizing the software, applications, databases, and other technology-based resources that are specific to an organization. It involves understanding and navigating these internal systems to perform various tasks, accessing information and supporting day-to-day operations.
- Time Management: The ability to effectively prioritize, plan, and organize tasks and activities to maximize productivity and meet deadlines. This competency involves the efficient allocation of time and resources, setting realistic goals, and maintaining focus and discipline in completing work.
- Customer Experience & Engagement: The ability to create positive and meaningful interactions between the organization and its customers throughout the entire customer journey. Professionals with expertise in this competency understand the importance of delivering exceptional customer experiences, building strong relationships, and fostering customer loyalty.
CLOSING DATE: August 3, 2026.
JOB POSTING TYPE: This is a vacancy.
OUR ENVIRONMENTAt MCIS, we’re committed to modeling diversity and inclusion for the entire language industry and the non-profit sector. This is made possible by maintaining an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all.
APPLICATION PROCESSThe application process will include
one phone screening, one written assessment, and a virtual interview with the hiring panel. Successful candidates would then proceed to a reference check and a background check.
USE OF AIWe utilize artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruitment process to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of candidate screening and selection. These tools assist in evaluating applications based on predefine criteria. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of AI in your application, please feel free to reach out to us.
Accommodations for job applicants with disabilities are available on request. 