As a Sign language interpreter, you are so important for the deaf community in many situations but as an interpreter in the classroom you play a critical role in ensuring deaf students receive an appropriate and engaging education that allows them to flourish and succeed. We see how important it is for you to be in schools supporting students who need you and that’s why it is our mission to find you a job that fuels your passions and meets your needs.
If you’re a sign language interpreter interested in travel ASL jobs, Blazer Jobs can help you find open positions in exciting locations across the U.S.
Sign Language Interpreter Job Responsibilities
Sign language interpreters facilitate communication between hearing and deaf people, translating what people are saying into sign language and sign language back into spoken words. Many people assume that school ASL sign language Interpreter jobs involve simply translating what is being said in the classroom word for word, but the job is a lot more nuanced than that. A good interpreter doesn’t just translate what the teacher says verbatim but takes the time to process what is being said to deliver the message accurately and in the spirit of what is occurring in the classroom.
An ASL Interpreter Job has many responsibilities, including:
- Interpreting the spirit of what is happening in the classroom along with accurate and engaging content
- Becoming familiar with the course content ahead of time, including doing independent research and learning appropriate vocabulary and phrases relating to the topic and the signs needed to interpret them
- Maintaining professional and ethical standards
- Realizing when communication is ineffective and taking the proper actions to correct the situation
- Using a combination of facial expressions, body language, and signing techniques to faithfully interpret classroom communication
- Using tactile signing when necessary for students who are both blind and deaf
- Signing for deaf parents who need help communicating concerns to their child’s teacher
Sign Language Interpreter Job Requirements
There are many paths to becoming a sign language interpreter. While you can complete a certification or associate’s degree, many people opt for a bachelor’s or master’s degree. These advanced programs provide a thorough education in ASL and also address deaf culture, interpreting, deaf literature, and comparative linguistics. Understanding deaf culture is essential to being a skilled interpreter, and these programs offer a much more in-depth education.
After you are comfortable and fluent in your knowledge of American Sign Language, you must get certified before working as an interpreter. The National Association of the Deaf and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf offer many levels of certification.
Maintaining and growing your skills as an interpreter is an important part of any ASL interpreter job. There are many ways to do this, like joining professional groups, tutoring ASL students, or volunteering to interpret at various community organizations.
Check out all of our school based sign language interpreter jobs in school districts across the country and apply today to start your next adventure!