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Interpreter Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Duke Health

Medical Interpreter - Spanish

Durham, NC · On-site

Provide interpreter services, and convey the exact message as opposed to summarizing the information in a way that is subjective. * Provide required documentation as identified by the International ...

Duke Health

Medical Interpreter - Spanish

Durham, NC · On-site

Provide interpreter services, and convey the exact message as opposed to summarizing the information in a way that is subjective. * Provide required documentation as identified by the International ...

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All JobsInterpreter JobsInterpreter Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Interpreter information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$30

$39

How much do interpreter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for interpreter in Raleigh, NC is $31.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.52 and $37.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get a job as an interpreter?

To become an interpreter, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and may pursue a bachelor's degree in translation, linguistics, or related fields. Certification from professional organizations, such as the American Translators Association, can improve job prospects. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering and developing strong communication and cultural skills are also important steps.

What are interpreters?

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 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 specialized training, certification, such as the Certified Interpreter credential, and familiarity with industry-specific terminology or tools.

What Are Interpreters?

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 is the highest paying interpreter job?

The highest paying interpreter jobs are often in specialized fields such as medical, legal, or conference interpreting, with freelance or agency-based interpreters earning higher rates. Certified interpreters with rare language skills and extensive experience can command six-figure salaries, especially in high-demand industries or government contracts.

How much does an interpreter get paid?

Interpreter salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $50,000. Freelance interpreters or those with rare language skills can earn higher rates, often charging $20 to $100 per hour or more. Many interpreters work in settings such as healthcare, legal, or conference environments, and certification can influence earning potential.

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 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.

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.
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Interpreter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Interpreter job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,475 per year, or $31 per hour.
Medical Interpreter- Duke Raleigh

Medical Interpreter- Duke Raleigh

Duke University

Raleigh, NC

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Duke University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

442nd of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.

About Duke Raleigh Hospital, A Campus of Duke University Hospital

Pursue your passion for caring with the Duke Raleigh Campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. With 204-beds, it is the third largest of the four Duke Health hospitals and offers a comprehensive array of services, including cancer, cardiovascular, neuroscience, advanced gastrointestinal, and wound healing care.

Job Summary


Perform a variety of interpretation and translation services to assist patients receiving care within the Duke Health System.

Department strongly prefers: Spanish medical interpreter knowledge/experience 

Hours:

Full-time Monday-Friday

8a - 4:30p

Work Performed

Provide interpreter services, and convey the exact message as opposed to summarizing the information in a way that is subjective. Provide documentation as required. Ensure that information pertaining to the patient's outpatient services, hospitalization, (i.e. advanced directives, consents from treatment, diagnosis and prognosis, treatment plan, follow-up appointments and health care education) are accurately communicated. Participate as a neutral party as a conduit of information that flows between Duke staff and the patient/visitor. The patient's questions/concerns regarding this information are to be appropriately addressed and documented by Risk Management Directives. Ensure all encounters are recorded in Service Hub. Maintain accurate and timely electronic documentation of all service requests and provisions. Promote customer satisfaction related to Duke services; notify the Supervisor of any issues that may be problematic for patients or Duke staff. Participate in continuing education programs and competency training to enhance professional role. Ensure all policies and procedures related to process, service, and employee work rules are followed. Maintain confidentiality in all matters related to patient care and visitors. Participate in on-call coverage to provide interpretation services during non-business hours and business hours as assigned. Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to work with diverse populations from various economicalbackgrounds and age groups. Ability to work as an effective member of a dedicated team. Ability to work in a fast paced Health Care environment with a variety of customer service needs. Accurate and appropriate interpretation skills always. Current N.C. Driver's License with driving record suitable to Duke Van operations and corporate risk management, if applicable.

Level Characteristics

N/A

Minimum QualificationsEducation

High-School Diploma or equivalent. Successful completion of conversation competency testing in secondary language (not applicable to ASL). Knowledge of Medical Terminology.

Experience

Previous experience in a Health Care setting preferred.

Degrees, Licensures, Certifications

For ASL positions: Current North Carolina Interpreter and Transliterator License required. RID National Certification (NIC, CDI, or equivalent) upon date of hire or within 6 months.


Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.


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About Duke University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US

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