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Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Varsity Tutors

American Sign Language Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a American Sign Language Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of ... interpreting career pathways. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ASL ...

CaptionCall

Installer/Trainer Part Time

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$27K - $45K/yr

... sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Sorenson's impact vision and plan extends to supporting employment ...

CaptionCall

Installer/Trainer Part Time

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$13.08 - $21.83/hr

... sign language and spoken language interpreting, translation, real-time captioning, and post-production language services. Sorenson's impact vision and plan extends to supporting employment ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Cook (Indeed Event)

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Cook (Indeed Event)

Ames, IA

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Cook (Indeed Event)

Ankeny, IA

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Shift Leader (Indeed Event)

Ames, IA

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe ...

Panda Restaurant Group

Cook (Indeed Event)

Altoona, IA

$13.50 - $18/hr

Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe ...

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All JobsSign Language Interpreter JobsEntry Level Sign Language Interpreter JobsEntry Level Sign Language Interpreter Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$28.8K

$64.1K

$69.3K

How much do entry level sign language interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level sign language interpreter in Des Moines, IA is $64,134.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,300.00 and $67,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level sign language interpreter?

Entry level sign language interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and those who do not know sign language. They typically work in a variety of settings such as schools, hospitals, and community events, using American Sign Language (ASL) or other forms of sign language. Entry level interpreters are usually recent graduates or have just met the minimum certification requirements. Their work is supervised or limited to less complex interpreting assignments as they gain experience. This role is essential for ensuring equal access to information and services.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level sign language interpreters in their first year on the job?

Entry-level sign language interpreters often encounter challenges such as managing nerves during live interpretation, adapting to different signing styles, and quickly processing new vocabulary in various settings. They may also need to balance accuracy with speed, especially in fast-paced environments like classrooms or meetings. Building confidence, seeking mentorship from experienced interpreters, and regularly practicing both receptive and expressive skills can help overcome these initial hurdles and support professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level sign language interpreter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter, you typically need proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL), a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a certificate from an interpreter training program. Familiarity with video remote interpreting platforms, translation software, and understanding of relevant certification pathways (such as NIC or EIPA) is valuable. Excellent listening skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to remain neutral are important soft skills that set interpreters apart. These competencies ensure accurate, respectful communication between deaf and hearing individuals, fostering accessibility and inclusion.

What is the difference between Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter vs Sign Language Interpreter?

AspectEntry Level Sign Language InterpreterSign Language Interpreter
CredentialsTypically requires a certification like the NIC (National Interpreter Certification) or equivalentOften requires certification, with more experienced interpreters holding advanced credentials
Work EnvironmentSchools, healthcare facilities, community events, and remote settingsSimilar environments but with higher complexity and client needs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, healthcare providers, government agenciesSame as entry level but with more responsibilities and varied settings
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking beginner roles or entry-level positions in sign language interpretingIndividuals comparing experience levels or career progression in sign language interpreting

In summary, an Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter is an entry-tier role requiring basic certification and limited experience, working in familiar environments. A Sign Language Interpreter generally refers to more experienced professionals with advanced credentials, handling complex assignments across various settings.

Are entry level sign language interpreters in demand?

Entry level sign language interpreters are in increasing demand due to growing awareness of accessibility and the need for communication support for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than average, especially for those with certification and proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL).

How to start becoming an entry level sign language interpreter?

To become an entry-level sign language interpreter, you should complete a relevant educational program such as an associate degree or certificate in sign language interpreting, gain proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) or other sign languages, and obtain certification from a recognized organization like the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). Developing strong communication skills and understanding interpreting ethics are also essential for entry-level roles.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 80% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,134 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Medical Interpreter American Sign Language

UnityPoint Health

Des Moines, IA

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

ASL Medical Interpreter – American Sign Language
PRN or As Needed

Join UnityPoint Health as a PRN ASL Medical Interpreter and help create meaningful, accessible healthcare experiences for patients, families, and care teams. In this role, you will provide accurate, complete, and culturally responsive American Sign Language interpretation across a variety of healthcare settings, including inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and procedural environments.

You will support clear communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers during in-person, video, and phone-based encounters, helping individuals understand diagnoses, treatment plans, patient rights, discharge instructions, and other important health information. This position plays a key role in ensuring every interaction is confidential, impartial, respectful, and aligned with UnityPoint Health’s commitment to exceptional experiences.

Make a Difference

If you are passionate about language access, patient advocacy, and helping people feel heard during important moments in their care, we invite you to bring your skills to UnityPoint Health.


At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:   

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.


· Provide accurate and effective interpretation (or translation) of procedures and other interactions for limited English-speaking patients (both adult and adolescent) their families, and staff, via phone, in person or in writing.

· Brings value to each encounter by being an advocate for the patient and family.

· Demonstrates initiative to improve quality and customer service by striving to exceed customer expectations.

· Ability to document according to policy and bill accurately for interpretation sessions.


Education: 

· High School diploma or equivalent required

Experience:

· Must have 6 months of prior medical interpretation and translation experience

· Must have ability to communicate in English, both verbally and in writing


Must have ASL certification

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995

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