2

Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter Jobs in Portland, OR

Sign Language Interpreter 3

Vancouver, WA ยท On-site

$4.0K - $5.4K/mo

Provide sign language interpreting services. * Assist with scheduling part-time interpreters for a variety of assignments, such as classes, special events, and substitution requests. * Assist with ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.3K

$69.7K

$75.3K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level sign language interpreter in Portland, OR is $69,692.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $73,200.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Portland, OR?

For Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sign Language Interpreter job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,692 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Sign Language Interpreter 3

Clark College

Vancouver, WA โ€ข On-site

$4.0K - $5.4K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Salary: $4,032.00 - $5,418.00 Monthly
Location : Clark College Main Campus, Vancouver, WA
Job Type: Cyclic
Job Number: 26-00071
Unit: Student Affairs
Department: Disability Access Center
Opening Date: 09/04/2026
Closing Date: 9/24/2026 3:00 PM Pacific
Description
Clark College is currently accepting applications for a cyclic, 9-month, part time (75% FTE), 30 hours a week over-time eligible, permanent classified, Sign Language Interpreter 3 in the Disability Access Center (DAC) department. Under direct supervision of the Interpreter Coordinator, the Sign Language Interpreter will function as the support service provider to facilitate communication between deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing students, faculty, staff, and visitors through the use of sign language or oral interpretation/transliteration. To provide American Sign Language and spoken English interpreting services classroom and college related activities during the fall, winter, and spring quarters. Additional hours may be contracted on an hourly basis for needs during summer quarters and breaks between quarters. This position is expected to be on campus and fully in person.
At Clark, we value equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to growing, learning, and supporting our employees.
Position Responsibilities
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provide sign language interpreting services.
  • Assist with scheduling part-time interpreters for a variety of assignments, such as classes, special events, and substitution requests.
  • Assist with tracking part-time interpreter hours as specified per interpreter's classification.
  • Assist with processing interpreter time sheets, applications, contracts, and other necessary paperwork.
  • Assist with collecting and analyzing data, generating reports.
  • Provide general services to students with a variety of disabilities.
  • Assist with processing materials in alternate format.
  • Proctor examinations for students with disabilities.
  • Assist students with disabilities requiring reader and/or scribe accommodations.
  • Assist with daily office operations.
  • Perform related duties as required.

Qualifications
POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND COMPETENCIES:
Candidates will be evaluated based on application materials, including the supplemental questions and personal interview(s), and will be required to demonstrate competencies in the following areas:
  • Certification from RID or NAD level III-V OR Graduation from an accredited Interpreter Training Program.
  • Three (3) years of documented experience in interpreting for the deaf of which one (1) year must have been in a post-secondary educational setting.
  • Working knowledge of the Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf (RID), Code of Professional Conduct, how it applies to your responsibilities in the college setting and a commitment to stay abreast of professional practices affecting interpreting.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Strong verbal, written, and reading skills.
  • Highly developed organizational skills, ability to work effectively in a multi-task environment, ability to work independently and as a team player, and pay attention to detail.

Supplemental Information
  • Ability to demonstrate skill in a wide range of sign language systems on abstract and concrete topics. Ability to assess language or communication model of consumers and setting to determine optimal linguistic equivalence. Use consumer feedback, assess effectiveness of interpretation to adjust interpretation accordingly
  • Must be able to manage a mixed schedule of day, evening, and weekend responsibilities both on- and off-campus, which may involve occasional overnight travel.
  • Possess a high degree of sensitivity and independent judgment in assisting individuals with disabilities.
  • Recognize the confidentiality of the operations of the Disability Access Center Office.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the college community.
  • Ability to work well with people of all ages from academically, culturally, and socioeconomically diverse backgrounds.
  • The initial appointment will include a 6-month probationary period and the employee will earn permanent status after successfully completing probation.
  • This position is represented by Washington Public Employees Association.
  • Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted which includes a sexual misconduct background check as required under RCW 28B.112.080. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.

WHAT WE OFFER:
  • Clark College promotes work/life balance for employees.
  • McClaskey Culinary Institute offers fast, fresh, and healthy dining options for students, faculty, staff, and the community. The space, located in Gaiser Hall, features three kiosks, a full-service retail bakery and barista bar, grab-and-go items, and a student-run restaurant.
  • Coffee Lounge in Hannah Hall and Clark Cafรฉ in Joan Stout Hall.
  • Campus bookstore offers snacks, apparel, and specialty supplies.
  • On-campus early childhood education care program (pending registration and availability).
  • Gym and recreation facilities are available for membership.
  • Clark promotes wellness with a variety of different workshops and events.

SALARY/BENEFITS:
Salary Range: $4,032 - $5,418/month (75% FTE of $5,376-$7,224/month)| Step A-M (commensurate with qualifications and experience) | Range:56 | Code: 257G
Successful candidates typically start at the beginning of the salary range and receive scheduled salary increment increases.
Clark College offers an exceptional benefits package that includes vacation/sick leave; medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance; retirement; and tuition waiver.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Required application materials must be completed and submitted online by 3 p.m., September 24, 2026.
REQUIRED ONLINE APPLICATION MATERIALS:
  • Clark College online application.
  • Current resume, with a minimum of three (3) references listed.
  • Cover letter describing background and experience related to qualifications and responsibilities of the position.
  • Responses to the supplemental questions included in the online application process.

Please apply online at www.clark.edu/jobs
To contact Clark College Office of People and Culture, please call (360) 992-2105 or email
DISABILITY ACCOMMODATIONS
Upon request, accommodations are available to persons with disabilities for the application process. Contact the Office of People and Culture at (360) 992-2105 or by video phone at (360) 991-0901.
SECURITY
The security of all the members of the campus community is of vital concern to Clark College. Information regarding crime prevention advice, the authority of the Security/Safety Department, policies concerning reporting of any crimes which may occur on or near college property, and crime statistics for the most recent 3-year period may be requested from the Clark College Security/Safety Department, (360) 992-2133 or The most recent Annual Security Report, written in compliance with the Clery Act, can be reviewed here:
ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION
If you are hired, you will need proof of identity, and documentation of U.S. citizenship or legal authorization to work. Clark College does not currently sponsor H-1B visas.
CORRECTIONS OR EXTENDED NOTICES Corrected or extended notices will be posted online.
Clark College's Office of People and Culture supports individuals with their academic, personal, and professional development, as well as provides training and educational resources for all members of the college community around diversity, inclusion, power, privilege, inequity, social equity, and social justice. The college offers further professional development for our employees through opportunities such as Employee Resource Groups, Cross Institution Faculty of Color Mentorship program, and Faculty and Staff of Color Conference.
The Office of People and Culture aims to support and elevate the college community by embedding equity and continuous growth into every aspect of people's practices - from recruitment and onboarding to learning, well-being, and community partnerships.
Clark College values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator. Protected group members are strongly encouraged to apply. Clark College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status or use of a trained guide dog or service animal. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment (unwelcome sexual conduct of various types). The college considers equal opportunity, affirmative action, and non-discrimination to be fundamental to the mission, vision, and values of the college. All faculty and staff hired at Clark College are encouraged to embrace, continually support, and enhance social equity on our campus and in our community. The college provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students, employees, and applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, Title II and Title IX, and Affirmative Action: Thao Schmidt, Associate Vice President, 360-992-2628, , 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Baird 142, Vancouver, Washington 98663. Clark College is a smoke-free/drug free environment. This recruitment announcement does not reflect the entire job description and can be changed and or modified without notice.
Clark College Office of People and Culture
September 4, 2026
26-00071
Clark College offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave; medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance as well as flexible spending account and tuition waiver.
Detailed information about health benefits can be found on our
Part-time temporary positions are generally ineligible for benefits.
01
Where did you first hear about this opportunity?
  • Clark College Website
  • Career Fair
  • The Chronicle for Higher Education
  • Craigslist
  • DiversityJobs.com (Circa)
  • Find.jobs
  • Greater Vancouver Chamber
  • HERC (Higher Education Recruitment Consortium)
  • HigherEdJobs.com
  • Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities
  • Indeed.com
  • Local Media (Oregonian, OregonLive, Columbian, etc.)
  • Partners in Diversity
  • PinkJobs
  • Portland Observer
  • The Skanner
  • Social Media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.)
  • United Latino Job Bank
  • Urban League of PDX
  • WorkSource
  • Other (Job Interest Card, State Job Board, Word of Mouth, etc.)

02
Do you have a certification from RID or NAD level III-V or have you graduated from an accredited Interpreter Training Program? Select all that apply.
  • Yes, I have a certification from RID level III-V.
  • Yes, I have a certification from NAD level III-V.
  • Yes, I have graduated from an accredited Interpreter training Program.
  • No, I do not have a certification from RID or NAD level III-V or have graduated from an accredited Interpreter Training Program.

03
How many years of documented experience in interpreting for the deaf do you have?
  • None
  • Less than a year.
  • One year to less than two years.
  • Two years to less than three years.
  • Three years or more.

04
If you have three years of documented experience in interpreting for the deaf, is one (1) year in a post-secondary educational setting?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have working knowledge of the Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct, how it applies to your responsibilities in the college setting and a commitment to stay abreast of professional practices affecting interpreting?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Please describe how you practice equity-mindedness in decision-making, relationship building, and communication.
07
A cover letter describing background and experience related to the qualifications and responsibilities of the position is required. Have you attached this document to your application? If not, your application will be considered incomplete.
  • Yes
  • No

08
A resume is required to be submitted for this position. Have you included your resume in this online application? If not, your application will be considered incomplete.
  • Yes
  • No

09
Clark College requires at least three (3) references with your online application. References provided should be professional, such as a current/previous supervisor, colleague, etc. Personal references, such as a friend, family member, etc. can be provided if no professional references are available. For references, please provide the contact name, phone number and email address. References may be checked by phone or email. I have read over the above content and will submit reference content as requested.
  • Yes
  • No

10
To meet accreditation standards, Clark College requires official copies of the required certifi