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Interpreter Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Interpreter

Kent, WA · On-site

$18.70 - $25/hr

Temporary/Hourly/Interpreter Date Posted: 5/7/2025 Location: Communication & Public Affairs Assignment Type Temporary/Hourly Work Location: Various Hours* Will vary by assignment Hourly Rate $18.70 ...

Interpreter

Auburn, WA · On-site

$25/hr

Interpreter Reports To: Department of Student Learning Unit Classification: Non-Rep Salary Schedule: $25.00/hr The Auburn School District Human Resources prioritizes equity as a fundamental principle ...

Interpreter

Kent, WA · On-site

$18.70 - $25/hr

Will vary by assignment Hourly Rate $18.70 - $25.00 Rate will vary based on interpreter certification status Benefits Employee Benefits | Kent School District About Kent School District Mission: Our ...

Job Title: Interpreter Reports To: Department of Student Learning Unit Classification: Non-Rep Salary Schedule: $25.00/hr The Auburn School District Human Resources prioritizes equity as a ...

SEE Interpreter

Covington, WA · On-site

$77K/yr

Job Summary The SEE Interpreter facilitates communication between the student, their peers, and school staff by transliterating spoken English into Signing Exact English and vice-versa. This position ...

SEE Interpreter

Covington, WA

$78K/yr

Job Summary The SEE Interpreter facilitates communication between the student, their peers, and school staff by transliterating spoken English into Signing Exact English and vice-versa. This position ...

SEE Interpreter

Covington, WA · On-site

$77K/yr

Job Summary The SEE Interpreter facilitates communication between the student, their peers, and school staff by transliterating spoken English into Signing Exact English and vice-versa. This position ...

SEE Interpreter

Covington, WA · On-site

$77K/yr

Job Summary The SEE Interpreter facilitates communication between the student, their peers, and school staff by transliterating spoken English into Signing Exact English and vice-versa. This position ...

SEE Interpreter

Covington, WA · On-site

$77K/yr

Job Summary The SEE Interpreter facilitates communication between the student, their peers, and school staff by transliterating spoken English into Signing Exact English and vice-versa. This position ...

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Interpreter information

See Kent, WA salary details

$14

$35

$45

How much do interpreter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for interpreter in Kent, WA is $36.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.51 and $43.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an interpreter?

Interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between people who speak different languages by converting spoken or signed messages from one language to another in real-time. They work in various settings such as conferences, hospitals, courts, and public events. Interpreters must have excellent language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and the ability to think quickly to accurately convey meaning and tone. Their role is crucial in ensuring clear and effective communication across language barriers.

What is an interpreter?

Interpreters help people who speak two different languages communicate. They must be fluent in the two target languages. Unlike translators, interpreters only provide spoken interactions, not written documentation. There are two forms of interpreting-simultaneous and consecutive. Simultaneous interpreting is when you listen and translate immediately, while the speaker is talking. This kind of interpreter is usually needed at large conferences or diplomatic meetings. Consecutive interpreting is best for face-to-face speeches or testimonies in court, where the speaker will say a few lines, then pause to give the interpreter a chance to relay their message in the second language. Individuals with severe speech or hearing impairments rely on sign language to communicate, so American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters help to convey the tone and message of the original communicator.

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 often a bachelor's degree in languages or interpretation studies. Familiarity with computer-assisted interpretation tools, terminology databases, and professional certifications such as from the American Translators Association are typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help interpreters excel in diverse and sometimes high-stakes environments. These skills ensure accurate, effective communication and build trust between parties across language barriers.

What are some common challenges interpreters face when working in fast-paced or high-pressure environments?

Interpreters often encounter challenges such as rapid speech, overlapping conversations, and unfamiliar terminology when working in fast-paced or high-pressure settings like conferences, legal proceedings, or medical emergencies. Staying attentive and maintaining accuracy under these conditions requires strong concentration and preparation. Interpreters also need to manage stress effectively and may need to quickly research or clarify terms on the spot. Collaborating with clients and colleagues beforehand to understand context and expectations can help mitigate some of these challenges.

What is the difference between Interpreter vs Translator?

AspectInterpreterTranslator
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, certification (e.g., CI, CT)Language proficiency, certification (e.g., ATA certification)
Work EnvironmentReal-time, spoken communication in meetings, conferencesWritten documents, texts, articles
Industry UsageLegal, medical, diplomatic, business eventsPublishing, legal, technical, literary fields
Search & Comparison IntentInterpreting vs translating services, careersTranslation careers, translating vs interpreting

Interpreters focus on real-time spoken communication, often in live settings, requiring quick thinking and fluency. Translators work with written texts, emphasizing accuracy and language skills for documents. Both roles require language proficiency and certifications but serve different communication needs.

How much do interpreters get paid?

Interpreter salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization, but the median hourly wage in the United States is around $25 to $30. Freelance interpreters may charge higher rates, especially for specialized fields or rare languages, while those working for agencies or organizations often have set salaries or hourly rates. Certification and fluency in multiple languages can also influence earning potential.

What qualifications are needed to be an interpreter?

To become an interpreter, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, fluency in at least two languages, and strong communication skills. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in a related field and certification from a recognized organization, such as the American Translators Association or the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators, especially for specialized or legal interpreting roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Interpreter jobs in Kent, WA?

The most popular types of Interpreter jobs in Kent, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Interpreter jobs in Kent, WA?

For Interpreter jobs in Kent, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Interpreter jobs in Kent, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Interpreter jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Interpreter jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Interpreter job openings:

Infographic showing various Interpreter job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,879 per year, or $36 per hour.

Interpreter

Kent, WA • On-site


Kent School District
Education Programs Administration • 1 - 5K employees

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

443rd of 636 rated elementary and secondary schools

People enjoy working here

Uninterrupted breaks


$18.70 - $25/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Temporary/Hourly/Interpreter
Date Posted:
5/7/2025
Location:
Communication & Public Affairs
Assignment Type
Temporary/Hourly
Work Location:
Various
Hours*
Will vary by assignment
Hourly Rate
$18.70 - $25.00
Rate will vary based on interpreter certification status
Benefits
Employee Benefits | Kent School District
About Kent School District
Mission: Our mission explains our fundamental purpose as an organization. Kent School District's mission is successfully preparing all students for their futures.
Vision: Our vision captures the future we seek to create for our students. Kent School District's vision is to produce graduates who are globally competitive learners. Through equitable access to high quality academic, social, and applied learning, students are ready to excel in college, careers, and in life.
Values: Our core values drive our culture and answer the question, "How do we want to act, consistent with our mission, along the path toward achieving our vision?" Specific values are at the heart of our culture because they are levers that drive us towards achieving shared vision. Throughout this plan, three core values are prioritized:

Equity: Student equity is ensuring that access to quality staff, courses, resources, activities, services and opportunities are provided for all students to succeed and grow based on their individual needs.
Excellence: As a system and individuals, we strive for excellence through the intentional creation of student-centered and efficient actions that operate with coherence.
Community: Partnership with our community prioritizes proactive involvement of those impacted by school district priorities and decision-making.

Strategic Plan | Kent School District
Discrimination | Kent School District
Attachment(s):
  • KSD Interpreter


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