1

American Sign Language Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online American Sign Language tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have ...

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online American Sign Language tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

American Sign Language information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$67.8K

$73.2K

How much do american sign language jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for american sign language in Chicago, IL is $67,751.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the American Sign Language position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an American Sign Language Interpreter, fluency in ASL, deep understanding of Deaf culture, and strong interpretation skills are essential, typically supported by relevant certification (such as RID or NIC) and a degree in interpretation or related fields. Familiarity with video remote interpreting (VRI) platforms, captioning software, and interpreting equipment is commonly required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to remain impartial under pressure help interpreters succeed. These competencies are crucial for ensuring clear, accurate communication and fostering meaningful engagement between Deaf and hearing individuals in diverse settings.

What types of work environments do American Sign Language interpreters typically work in?

American Sign Language Interpreters work in a wide variety of settings, including schools, medical facilities, legal environments, businesses, community events, and government institutions. Depending on the position, you may find yourself interpreting in classrooms, during medical appointments, at conferences, or through video remote services. Interpreters may work independently, as part of a team, or alongside other specialists to support accessible communication. Flexible schedules, travel between assignments, and adapting quickly to new environments are common aspects of the role. This diversity provides opportunities to develop specialized skills and advance into roles such as lead interpreter or interpreter coordinator.

What can I do with an American Sign Language degree?

An American Sign Language (ASL) degree prepares individuals for careers as ASL interpreters, translators, or educators. These roles involve facilitating communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and hearing people, often requiring certification and strong language skills. Employment settings include schools, healthcare facilities, government agencies, and private organizations.

What is an American Sign Language?

An American Sign Language (ASL) job typically involves working with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to facilitate communication. Common roles include ASL interpreters, educators, counselors, and advocates who use sign language to assist in various settings such as schools, workplaces, healthcare, and community services. These professionals ensure accessibility, inclusion, and effective communication for the Deaf community. Many ASL jobs require fluency in ASL and may also require certification, depending on the role and location.

What are the most commonly searched types of American Sign Language jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of American Sign Language jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for American Sign Language jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most American Sign Language job openings:
Infographic showing various American Sign Language job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,751 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

American Sign Language Instructor

After School Matters

Chicago, IL • On-site

$32/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


After School Matters rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 221 rated education and training


Job description

Summary of Position: After School Matters is seeking committed, part-time instructors to teach its American Sign Language program during the summer, fall, and spring for 15 high school participants between the ages of 14 to 20.
American Sign Language is an advanced apprenticeship. Students learn the essential vocabulary, basic grammar, and facial expressions/body language used in ASL. Instructors will supervise and lead students in understanding and expose teens to the importance of Deaf Culture and ASL basics.
The typical schedule for program sessions are as follows:
  • Summer: 6 to 7 weeks, daily Monday through Friday, four instructional hours per day. Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Fall: 10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Spring: 10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Limited opportunities for Saturday only programs are available.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Expose a diverse group of teen participants to various facets of the education, linguistics, and communication industries while fostering a positive, safe, and collaborative atmosphere for all teen participants.
  • Maintain knowledge of current education, linguistics, and communication, technology and concepts
  • Prepare, organize, and supervise the weekly lessons on Deaf culture, ASL vocabulary/grammar, or ASL body language and facial expressions.
  • Develop, plan, and implement high-quality related field trips, master classes, events, and guest visits to enhance instruction and training
  • Provide supervision during program field trips and other youth engagement opportunities
  • Report all problems or concerns and program updates to After School Matters Program Specialist to maintain consistent lines of communication throughout the program session
  • Attend all planning and program dates, including: Instructor orientation, professional development workshops, meetings and other required sessions
  • Participate in the recruitment, interview, and selection process of teen program participants
  • Manage and track program activities such as attendance, interview outcomes, enrollment, evaluation surveys, and pertinent student records in an online data tracking system (CitySpan).
  • Supervise teens at an average of 15:1, instructor: teen ratio

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Proficiency in ASL: Must have a deep understanding and fluency in American Sign Language. This includes mastery of ASL grammar, vocabulary, syntax, and fingerspelling. Must be able to sign clearly and effectively communicate complex ideas in ASL.
  • Knowledge of Deaf Culture: Knowledge of cultural norms, values, history, and traditions within the Deaf community. Cultural sensitivity and respect are essential.
  • Teaching Skills: Possess effective teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and instructional design. Must be able to adapt teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners and create an inclusive learning environment.
  • Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential to effectively convey information to teens. This includes both signing fluently to explain concepts, provide feedback, and facilitate discussions.
  • Patience and Empathy: An ideal instructor is supportive, encouraging, able to provide constructive feedback, and is understanding that learning a new language requires patience and practice.
  • Customer Service Skills: Able to effectively communicate with a variety of stakeholders (teen participants, parents, ASM programs staff, vendors, etc.)

Qualifications:
  • Experience teaching, specifically teenagers, is highly preferred.
  • Culturally competent in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Commitment to diversity and inclusion is required.

Compensation: $32 / hour
About Us: After School Matters is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that annually offers after-school and summer programs to nearly 19,000 Chicago high school teens to explore and develop their talents while gaining critical skills that will set them up for success in college and beyond.
ASM has engaged more than 450,000 Chicago teens and is the nation's largest and most successful provider of after-school and summer programs for high school teens.
ASM offers paid apprenticeships led by professionals in the fields of arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Our nationally respected youth development model has been replicated in cities across the country and earned us the City Livability Award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
Programs take place at community locations throughout the city, including four ASM buildings: downtown at Gallery 37 Center for the Arts and Orleans, the Michael and Karyn Lutz Center in Belmont Cragin, and the Pullman community at Gately Park. Currently, After School Matters' annual operating budget is approximately $48M and employs approximately 500 staff across the organization.
EEO: After School Matters is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.

What After School Matters employees say

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom