1

Interpreter Pay Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

TN · On-site

$2.1K/wk

Pay: $45-$55/hour , based on qualifications, certification, experience, and employment arrangement * Weekly compensation: Approximately up to $2,100+ , based on a 40-hour workweek * Guaranteed hours ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Interpreter Pay information

What is interpreter pay and how much do interpreters typically earn?

Interpreter pay refers to the compensation that interpreters receive for translating spoken or sign language between parties who do not share a common language. Interpreters can be paid hourly, per session, or on a salaried basis, depending on their employer and the setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for interpreters and translators was about $53,640 in 2022, but this can vary widely based on factors such as language pair, experience, industry, and geographic location. Court and medical interpreters often earn higher rates, and freelance interpreters may set their own fees.

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

To thrive as an Interpreter, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, strong listening skills, and usually a relevant degree or certification in interpretation. Familiarity with tools such as Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) software and knowledge of industry standards like those from the American Translators Association (ATA) are often required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to think quickly under pressure set outstanding interpreters apart. These competencies ensure accurate and effective communication across language barriers, which is essential for facilitating understanding in diverse settings.

What are some common challenges interpreters face regarding pay and how can they address them?

Interpreters often encounter challenges such as inconsistent pay rates, differences in compensation based on language pairs or specialization, and negotiating fair wages as freelancers or contractors. To address these issues, interpreters can research standard rates within their industry, join professional associations for support and advocacy, and clarify payment terms with clients before accepting assignments. Staying informed about prevailing wage trends and building a reputation for reliability can also help interpreters secure better-paying opportunities and more consistent work.

What is the difference between Interpreter Pay vs Translator Pay?

AspectInterpreter PayTranslator Pay
Required CredentialsLanguage proficiency, certification (e.g., CI, CT)Language proficiency, certification (e.g., ATA certification)
Work EnvironmentReal-time, spoken communication in settings like conferences, courtsWritten communication, documents, websites, and texts
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, courts, healthcare, live eventsPublishing, business, legal, technical industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Interpreter pay typically involves real-time spoken language services in settings like courts or conferences, requiring specific certifications and skills. Translator pay focuses on written language translation, often with different certifications. While both roles require language proficiency, their work environments and employer types differ, influencing pay structures and demand.

How much do interpreters make?

Interpreter pay in North Carolina varies based on experience, language pair, and setting, but the average hourly rate ranges from $20 to $35. Certified interpreters or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in medical, legal, or government environments. Many interpreters work freelance or as contractors, which can affect income stability and benefits.

Is being an interpreter a good career?

Being an interpreter can be a rewarding career for those fluent in multiple languages, offering opportunities in various settings such as healthcare, legal, and business environments. It often requires strong communication skills, cultural knowledge, and sometimes certification, with job stability depending on demand and specialization. The profession can involve irregular hours and the need for continuous language development.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Interpreter Pay jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Interpreter Pay job openings:

Infographic showing various Interpreter Pay job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$24 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Interprets critical medical information in Spanish and English for providers, patients, and caregivers, both on-site and over the phone.

  • Helps link Limited-English Proficient (LEP) patients and families with appropriate hospital resources.

  • Performs written translation of non-critical documents on a limited basis.


St. Jude Children's Research Hospital rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description

Better at Work. Better at Life.
When you work at St. Jude, you'll join a highly collaborative work culture that inspires you every day to be your best. With opportunities for learning and growth, you can shape a career path that is right for you while also enjoying all the benefits and stability of working for a world-class institution. This includes work-life balance with generous paid time-off and on-campus conveniences that make life a little easier. Join us and you'll quickly see why St. Jude is consistently ranked by our employees on Glassdoor as a "Best Place to Work."
A Medical Interpreter provides on-site and over-the-phone interpretation services for providers, patients, and caregivers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Medical proficiency and experience interpreting in Hebrew could be a plus. Helps to link Limited-English Proficient (LEP) patients and families with appropriate hospital resources. Performs translation of non-critical documents on a limited basis.
Full-time Position
Shift hours: 8:30AM to 5:00PM
Professional Interpreting Experience Required
Job Responsibilities:
  • Interprets critical medical information in Spanish and English for providers, patients, and caregivers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, both on-site and over the phone. Proficiency interpreting in medical encounters in Hebrew could be a plus. Ensures that providers and LEP/NEP patients and parents clearly understand each other in verbal exchanges of essential information during inpatient and outpatient visits (e.g., informed consent, medical interview, health care instructions). Interprets telephone conferences between caregivers and providers. Notifies supervisor of potential or actual communication problems regarding LEP/NEP patients and staff. Maintains confidentiality in all matters related to LEP/NEP patients and families.
  • Helps to link Limited-English Proficient (LEP) patients and families with appropriate hospital resources.
  • Performs written translation of non-critical documents on a limited basis.
  • Provides timely and accurate daily records of all interpreting services performed
  • Participates in continuing education programs and competency training to enhance professional medical interpretation skills
  • Collaborates with other interpreters to ensure coverage of interpreting assignments; participates in on-call rotation as assigned
  • Assists with the coordination of volunteer medical interpreters
  • Assists with the orientation and training of other medical interpreters as needed
  • Performs other related duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution
  • Maintains regular and predictable attendance.

Minimum Education and/or Training:
  • High school/GED required
  • Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Prior completion of an accredited medical interpreter training course of at least 40 hours is required. A list of training programs is posted on the IMIA web site at http://www.imiaweb.org/education/accreditationhistory.asp

Minimum Experience:
  • Three months or 480 hours of documented medical interpreting experience is required
  • Proficiency in English, Hebrew and one other language preferred

Licensure, Registration and/or Certification Required by Law:
  • None

Licensure, Registration and/or Certification Required by SJCRH Only:
  • (LC:CCHI or NBCMI)Certified Healthcare Interpreter (CCHI) issued by the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters OR Certified Medical Interpreter (NBCMI) issued by the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters within 12 months of hire into this position.

Compensation
In recognition of certain U.S. state and municipal pay transparency laws, St. Jude is including a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This is an estimate offered in good faith and a specific salary offer takes into account factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the salary range and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $24.00 - $42.00 per hour for the role of Medical Interpreter.
Explore our exceptional benefits!
St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.

What St. Jude Children's Research Hospital employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom