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Interpreter Pay Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Freelance Interpreter

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$76K/yr

Non-Fixed Term Pay Type: Hourly Exempt Status: No Supervisory Organization (Department): Freelance Interpreters - JM Summary: Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Freelance Interpreter supports ...

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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 are popular job titles related to Interpreter Pay jobs in Washington?

For Interpreter Pay jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Interpreter Pay jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Interpreter Pay job openings:

Freelance Interpreter

Gallaudet University

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$76K/yr

Part-time

Medical

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

OVERVIEW: Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, and multicultural institution of higher education dedicated to the intellectual and professional advancement of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world. As part of the university, the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center is a federally funded center that operates exemplary elementary and secondary education programs for deaf and hard of hearing students as well as national outreach programs which develop and disseminate innovative curricula, instructional techniques, and products nationwide, and provide information, training, and technical assistance to parents and professionals serving children from birth through age 21.
Job Title:
Freelance Interpreter
Worker Type:
Non-Fixed Term
Pay Type:
Hourly
Exempt Status:
No
Supervisory Organization (Department):
Freelance Interpreters - JM
Summary:
Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Freelance Interpreter supports Gallaudet Interpreting Service (GIS) in providing communication access services for students, staff, faculty, alumni, and more for both Gallaudet University and the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center.
Job Description:
  • Provides professional and accurate interpreting services to the Gallaudet community in a wide variety of settings as assigned.
  • Prepares for each assignment by reviewing scheduled assignments ahead of time, reviewing all materials available for each assignment, seeking out additional prep to support well rounded content knowledge, meeting with presenters, faculty, and event coordinators to review content, discuss logistics, and determine appropriate interpreting needs for each environment, including the need for a DI-HI team, trilingual team, or other services.
  • Increases breadth and depth of interpreting experience within the Gallaudet community by consulting with GIS scheduling office to request assignments that provide continued growth opportunities.
  • Engages in and enhance one's identified areas of skill (i.e. ASL, English, Tactile ASL, ProTactile, and IS) by continually performing self-assessments of skills and identifying new areas for development and attending professional trainings, workshops, conferences, etc.
  • Meets with Manager, Interpreting & Scheduling Supervisor to review performance and activities, including but not limited to progress on performance and professional goals, consumer feedback and evaluations.
  • Contributes to the continued development of the interpreting field by providing mentoring in a variety of capacities, including providing BAI and MAI students observation opportunities including pre/post assignment debriefing, supervising and supporting practicum/internship students as requested, providing specific mentoring to developing interpreters on both technical and soft skills, and engaging in reciprocal mentoring and skill development with colleagues.
  • Adheres to the RID/NAD Code of Professional Conduct at all times by maintaining the strictest level of confidentiality for all interpreting assignments, demonstrating respect for consumers and colleagues, and abiding by all other tenets of the CPC.
  • Adheres to Gallaudet University and GIS codes of conduct as outlined in the Administration and Operations Manual and the GIS Handbook.
  • Maintains and submits all required employment-related documentation in a timely manner by reading and responding, as needed, to all emails from both the University and GIS, and completing conflict of interest, internet security, and annual compliance training within the given deadlines.
  • Shows a genuine commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and seeks out activities and workshops to foster continuous learning.
  • Establishes and maintains a positive and supportive working relationship with co-workers.
  • Serves as a mandatory reporter under Title IX; and commits to completing Title IX training and other compliance requirements on an annual basis.
  • Performs related and other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
  • A minimum of three years of professional interpreting experience.
  • National certification [e.g., NIC, CI&CT, NAD IV or V, CSC or CDI (Deaf Interpreters with PDIC or CASLI Knowledge Exam credentials will be considered)].
  • Ability to communicate in American Sign Language.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Demonstrated commitment to Social Justice and Equity including but not limited to anti-racist, anti-audist, anti-ableist approaches to work.
  • Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Excellent ability to solve problems in real time when faced with competing demands or ethical dilemmas.
  • Excellent ability to bring new perspectives to existing challenges to bring about positive change.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with and across University departments, outside constituents and groups.
  • Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

Additional Job Details:
  • "Pass" rating on GIS interpreting skills screening is required before hire date. Please see the GIS Screening Policy.
  • This position is a long-term temporary position with the expectation to work for up to 40 hours per week, with opportunity for overtime. There is no guarantee of hours without an additional contract specifying guaranteed days and times.
  • This position requires that you accept at least one interpreting assignment per year to maintain active employment status.
  • This position offers health insurance benefits if you work a minimum of 32 hours per week.

Other Important Information:
  • The successful candidate will undergo a background check that must be cleared prior to working at Gallaudet University.

Other Important Information:
  • The successful candidate will undergo a background check that must be cleared prior to working at Gallaudet University.

Current Employees (Regular Status and Extended Temporary)
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https://www.myworkday.com/gallaudet/d/inst/1$9925/9925$2559.htmld
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Gallaudet University is an equal opportunity employer/educational institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, national origin, religion, age, hearing status, disability, genetic information, covered veteran status, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, source of income, place of business or residence, pregnancy, childbirth, or any other unlawful basis. This policy is in compliance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the District of Columbia Human Rights Act, and other applicable laws and applies to all procedures affecting applicants and employees including, but not necessarily limited to: recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, reassignment, reappointment, tenure, demotion, selection for training, layoff, furlough, and termination, compensation, and all other conditions or privileges of employment.