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Federal Interpreter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Waray interpreter

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$27.50 - $36.25/hr

... federal government agencies and commercial clients in 120 languages. Accent on Languages is a ... Services that we offer include translation, interpretation, localization, transcription, monitoring ...

Waray interpreter

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$86K/yr

... federal government agencies and commercial clients in 120 languages. Accent on Languages is a ... Services that we offer include translation, interpretation, localization, transcription, monitoring ...

Waray interpreter

Berkeley, CA

$86K/yr

... federal government agencies and commercial clients in 120 languages. Accent on Languages is a ... Services that we offer include translation, interpretation, localization, transcription, monitoring ...

$25.50 - $33.75/hr

Interpreters will facilitate accurate communication between minors and Care Staff, as well as other ... federal, state, or local laws

Mam Interpreter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$26 - $34.25/hr

Interpreters will facilitate accurate communication between minors and Care Staff, as well as other ... federal, state, or local laws Powered by JazzHR 6nBzbC6vkt

Mam Interpreter

Daly City, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33.50/hr

Interpreters will facilitate accurate communication between minors and Care Staff, as well as other ... federal, state, or local laws Powered by JazzHR fFGbUnOaJR

Interpreter-ASL

Oakland, CA · On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Experience interpreting in high-profile or specialized fields (e.g., federal courts, higher education, or corporate environments). * Knowledge of tactile interpreting (e.g., for Deaf-Blind clients)

Mam Interpreter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $31.25/hr

Interpreters will facilitate accurate communication between minors and Care Staff, as well as other ... federal, state, or local laws Powered by JazzHR M9pDrFalqf

Interpreter-ASL

Oakland, CA · On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Experience interpreting in high-profile or specialized fields (e.g., federal courts, higher education, or corporate environments). * Knowledge of tactile interpreting (e.g., for Deaf-Blind ...

Medical Interpreter

Martinez, CA · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

Medical interpretation services are provided for clients and patients of Contra Costa Health ... Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any ...

DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Provides interpretation services, including medical terminology 2. ... and federal laws (including federal PACE requirements at 42 CFR 460.64(a); 460.68(a), we will ...

Experience interpreting in high-profile or specialized fields (e.g., federal courts, higher education, or corporate environments). * Knowledge oftactile interpreting(e.g., for Deaf-Blind clients)

DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Provides interpretation services, including medical terminology 2. ... and federal laws (including federal PACE requirements at 42 CFR 460.64(a); 460.68(a), we will ...

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Showing results 1-20

Federal Interpreter information

See California salary details

$23.7K

$63.2K

$103.1K

How much do federal interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal interpreter in California is $63,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal interpreter?

Federal Interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between individuals who do not speak the same language within the federal court system or other federal agencies. They translate spoken or signed language during legal proceedings, interviews, and official events to ensure all parties understand the information being shared. These interpreters must possess a high level of language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and familiarity with legal terminology. Federal Interpreters often work in courts, immigration hearings, and other federal settings where accurate interpretation is crucial for justice and due process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal interpreter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Interpreter, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, a deep understanding of legal terminology, and often a relevant degree or federal certification. Familiarity with interpretation equipment, legal case management systems, and official certification such as from the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts or state interpreter programs is typically required. Exceptional listening, cultural awareness, and the ability to remain impartial and composed under pressure are vital soft skills. These abilities are crucial for accurately conveying information and ensuring fair legal proceedings in high-stakes government environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by federal interpreters when working in courtrooms or government settings?

Federal Interpreters often encounter challenges such as dealing with complex legal terminology, maintaining accuracy under pressure, and adapting to diverse dialects or regional language variations. They must also remain impartial and uphold strict confidentiality, even in emotionally charged situations. Effective collaboration with judges, attorneys, and other court personnel is essential to ensure clear communication and uphold the integrity of the proceedings.

What is the difference between Federal Interpreter vs Court Interpreter?

AspectFederal InterpreterCourt Interpreter
CredentialsTypically requires certification from the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination or similarOften requires state certification or registration, may include federal certification
Work EnvironmentFederal agencies, courts, immigration officesState and local courts, legal proceedings
Employer & IndustryFederal government, courts, immigration servicesState courts, local legal systems
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Federal Interpreters and Court Interpreters both facilitate communication in legal settings, often requiring similar certifications. Federal Interpreters work primarily for federal agencies and courts, while Court Interpreters serve state and local courts. Certification requirements and work environments overlap, but their specific roles depend on the jurisdiction and employer.

How to be a federal court interpreter?

To become a federal court interpreter, candidates typically need to be fluent in at least two languages and pass the Federal Court Interpreter Certification Examination administered by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Certification and state-specific requirements may also apply, along with a background check and adherence to ethical standards; some roles require specialized knowledge of legal terminology and procedures.

What job categories do people searching Federal Interpreter jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Interpreter jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Federal Interpreter jobs?

Cities in California with the most Federal Interpreter job openings:

Infographic showing various Federal Interpreter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,182 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Waray interpreter

Accent on Languages

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$27.50 - $36.25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Description


Accent on Languages is looking for a medical qualified Waray interpreter to work in the Bay area, mostly in San Lorenzo, CA.


Company Introduction: 

Accent on Languages is a woman and minority owned language company established in Berkeley since 1992. We have been providing language services to the law enforcement community as well as local, state, and federal government agencies and commercial clients in 120 languages.


Accent on Languages is a certified small business that helps our clients serve the common good through our leading range of language services. With more than 30 years of experience, our team of in-house and external subject matters experts help achieve our clients' goals with any type of linguistic needs. Services that we offer include translation, interpretation, localization, transcription, monitoring, language assessment and much more. We have helped hundreds of clients satisfy their language priorities, providing efficient and accurate support that has helped millions of people. And we do this through the use of top rate technologies that ensure the best quality of work.


As a woman and minority owned company, we are committed to promoting diverse and inclusive work, and we’re proud of our reputation for helping people of all backgrounds.

We are looking for candidates who are equally passionate about serving the greater good by providing the best interpretation services to an even bigger LEP population in the US. If you feel like you are a great fit, please don't hesitate to apply! 


Job Description:


Accent on Languages is looking for a Waray interpreter who can attend in-person and remote interpreting assignments with our clients (educational, medical settings and others). 


Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience in medical Consecutive Interpreting
  • Degree in interpreting 
  • Any Interpreting Certifications a plus!
  • Permanent US Resident or Us Citizen (Required)