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Foreign Language Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interpreter

Providence, RI · On-site

$26 - $27.17/hr

Instill Trust and Value Differences Patient and Community Focus and Collaborate RESPONSIBILITIES Provides both oral and written foreign language interpretation services to non-English and Sign ...

Interpreter

Providence, RI · On-site

$26 - $27.17/hr

Provides both oral and written foreign language interpretation services to non-English and Sign Language for Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients.Interprets medical providers and staffs' questions ...

Interpreter PD

Providence, RI · On-site

$28.25/hr

Instill Trust and Value Differences Patient and Community Focus and Collaborate RESPONSIBILITIES Provides both oral and written foreign language interpretation services to non-English and Sign ...

... language instructors and interpreters are also frequently required in different locations ... Motivation to grow in foreign language education * Proficiency in English (and the target language)

Interpreter

Providence, RI · On-site

$26 - $27.17/hr

Instill Trust and Value Differences Patient and Community Focus and Collaborate RESPONSIBILITIES Provides both oral and written foreign language interpretation services to non-English and Sign ...

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Foreign Language Interpreter information

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$32K

$44.1K

$51K

How much do foreign language interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for foreign language interpreter in the United States is $44,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Foreign Language Interpreter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foreign Language Interpreter, you need fluency in at least two languages, a deep understanding of cultural nuances, and often a bachelor's degree or relevant certification in interpretation. Familiarity with remote interpreting platforms, translation memory software, and industry-specific terminology is typically required. Exceptional listening skills, quick thinking, and the ability to remain neutral and professional help interpreters excel in high-pressure environments. These skills ensure accurate and effective communication, bridging language gaps in legal, medical, business, and public service settings.

What language interpreters get paid most?

Language interpreters who work with less common or high-demand languages, such as Arabic, Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean, tend to earn higher wages due to the specialized skills required. Certified interpreters with experience in legal, medical, or technical settings also typically command higher pay. Compensation varies based on location, certification, and industry, but rare language skills generally lead to higher earnings.

How much does an interpreter get paid?

The average hourly pay for a foreign language interpreter ranges from $20 to $40, depending on experience, language rarity, and setting. Certified interpreters working in specialized fields or for agencies may earn higher rates, and freelance interpreters often set their own rates based on project scope and language demand.

How do Foreign Language Interpreters manage the challenges of accurately conveying tone and meaning during live conversations?

Foreign Language Interpreters often face the challenge of not only translating words but also ensuring that the original tone, intent, and cultural nuances are preserved during live conversations. This requires strong active listening skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to think quickly under pressure. Interpreters typically prepare by familiarizing themselves with relevant terminology and context before assignments, and they often work closely with clients or speakers to clarify expectations. Collaboration with colleagues and ongoing professional development also help interpreters handle complex or sensitive interactions more effectively.

How much do interpreters make?

In North Carolina, foreign language interpreters typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, language rarity, and setting. Certified interpreters or those with specialized skills may command higher rates, especially in legal, medical, or government environments.

What is the difference between Foreign Language Interpreter vs Translator?

AspectForeign Language InterpreterTranslator
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, interpretation certifications (e.g., CI, CT)Language proficiency, translation certifications (e.g., ATA)
Work EnvironmentReal-time spoken communication, live settingsWritten documents, digital or print media
Employer & IndustryHospitals, courts, conferences, government agenciesPublishing, legal, business, technical fields
Search & ComparisonOften searched together due to language skills, but roles differ in medium and timing

Foreign Language Interpreters facilitate real-time spoken communication between languages, often in live settings like courts or conferences. Translators work with written texts, focusing on accuracy and style. Both roles require language proficiency and certifications but serve different purposes in communication.

How to become a foreign language interpreter?

To become a foreign language interpreter, typically you need fluency in at least two languages, often demonstrated through language proficiency tests or certifications. Many interpreters pursue a bachelor's degree in a related field and obtain certification from professional organizations, such as the American Translators Association, to enhance job prospects. Strong communication skills, cultural knowledge, and experience with interpretation tools are also important.

What are foreign language interpreters?

Foreign language interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between people who speak different languages. They listen to spoken words in one language and verbally translate them into another language in real time, ensuring both parties understand each other. Interpreters work in various settings such as hospitals, courts, conferences, and business meetings. Their role requires excellent language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and the ability to think quickly and accurately under pressure.
More about Foreign Language Interpreter jobs
What cities are hiring for Foreign Language Interpreter jobs? Cities with the most Foreign Language Interpreter job openings:
What states have the most Foreign Language Interpreter jobs? States with the most job openings for Foreign Language Interpreter jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Foreign Language Interpreter jobs? For Foreign Language Interpreter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Foreign Language Interpreter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,079 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

$26 - $27.17/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Brown University Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

487th of 874 rated healthcare providers


Job description

SUMMARY Under general supervision of the Manager Interpreter Services & Information Desk or designee, and in accordance with established policies and procedures, the Medical Interpreter provides both oral and written foreign language interpretation services to non-English speaking patients and employees. Explains hospital policies and procedures and provides assistance to patients who have limited English proficiency. All essential functions performed in this position reflect the age specific needs of the patients.

Sign Language Interpreters are also provided for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patients and their families. Brown University Health employees are expected to successfully role model the organization's values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence as these values guide our everyday actions with patients, customers and one another. In addition to our values, all employees are expected to demonstrate the core Success Factors which tell us how we work together and how we get things done.

The core Success Factors include: Instill Trust and Value Differences Patient and Community Focus and Collaborate RESPONSIBILITIES Provides both oral and written foreign language interpretation services to non-English and Sign Language for Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients. Interprets medical providers and staffs' questions, responses and/or instructions to patients, including technical terms; interprets the patients' responses and/or questions, in person or by telephone. Interviews patients to complete required forms.

Schedules and directs patients to appointments by telephone instructions or by physical escort when medically necessary. Assists Hospital personnel by providing explanation of Rhode Island Hospital billing system, Community Free Service, HMO and/or third party procedures by interpreting and assisting the patients in completion of paperwork. Assists Hospital personnel by interpreting cultural beliefs of non-English speaking patients.

Interprets for employees and their department supervisors, in all areas of the hospital when appropriate and necessary. Assists Hospital personnel by providing communication with outside institutions and agencies on behalf of patients and staff; i.e., Hospitals, Clinics, VNA, Providence Center, and when required, provide medical information to overseas doctors and hospitals. Provides training to Hospital personnel around cultural issues and ethnicity

Facilitates different language communication and allays anxiety of patients. Requires ability to translate medical documents or information to be utilized by hospital staff, patients and their families, accurately and precisely (i.e., medication instructions, brief letters). Records and maintains related documentation logs, records, and statistical data

Maintains quality assurance, safety, environmental, and infection control in accordance with established hospital department policies, procedures and objectives. Performs other related duties, as required (i.e., answers telephone, input data into computer, etc.). MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS BASIC KNOWLEDGE Demonstrated knowledge and skills necessary to provide care to patients with consideration of aging processes, human development stages and cultural patterns in each step of the care process

Associate Degree in any area related to science or human services or its equivalent level of experience. Fluency and proficiency in both English and target foreign language. Able to accurately interpret and translate verbal and written.

Must have Medical Interpreter Training Program Certificate. Requires proficiency in Medical Terminology in English and a Foreign Language in order to interpret and translate accurately. Requires interpersonal and communication skills to deal effectively with medical providers treating patients and their families in situations that may be difficult and highly emotional for both parties.

Requires the ability to interview, assess and train student interpreters and, when needed, to act as a liaison for RIH for educational purposes in schools and other community agencies/institutions (i.e., Brown University Interpreter Aide Program). Provides support to student interpreters. Requires the knowledge, sensitivity, and ability to bridge ethnic values, cultural beliefs and behaviors with American Medical Practices

Responsible to ensure that a language barrier does not prevent the provision of Quality Medical Care. Sign Language interpreters require certification and/or license. EXPERIENCE Minimum of one to two years of formal Medical Interpreting.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Works in a normal office environment with significant exposure to patient care environment. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY None PAY RANGE $26.00 - $27.17 LOCATION Rhode Island Hospital - 593 Eddy Street Providence, Rhode Island 02903 WORK TYPE M-F 8:00 am - 4:30 pm WORK SHIFT Day DRIVING REQUIRED No UNION International Brotherhood Teamsters Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Apply


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