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Interpreter Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Spanish Interpreter

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

All Interpreters on staff generally provide these services at the Medical Center, Outpatient Clinics, and Hospital Affiliates. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Manages flow of communication autonomously and ...

Spanish Interpreter

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

All Interpreters on staff generally provide these services during normal business hours at the Medical Center, Outpatient Clinics, and Hospital Affiliates. Responsibilites: Manages flow of ...

Spanish Interpreter

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

All Interpreters on staff generally provide these services during normal business hours at the Medical Center, Outpatient Clinics, and Hospital Affiliates. Responsibilites: Manages flow of ...

Spanish Interpreter

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

All Interpreters on staff generally provide these services at the Medical Center, Outpatient Clinics, and Hospital Affiliates. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Manages flow of communication autonomously and ...

TAR ASL Interpreter

Rochester, NY · On-site

$46.78 - $70.19/hr

As Scheduled Department: 500182 Interpreter Svcs-Sign Language Work Shift: UR - Rotating (United States of America) Range: UR URG 115 H Compensation Range: $46.78 - $70.19 The referenced pay range ...

New

Interpreter ASL, SMH

Rochester, NY · On-site

$38.76 - $52.33/hr

The Sign Language Interpreter provides interpreting services for all clinical and professional University of Rochester Medical Center Staff, patients, and caregivers. These services are provided for ...

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Interpreter information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$31

$39

How much do interpreter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for interpreter in Rochester, NY is $31.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.90 and $38.22 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 Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Interpreter jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Interpreter jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Interpreter job openings:

Infographic showing various Interpreter job openings in Rochester, NY as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,475 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Spanish Interpreter

Rochester, NY • On-site

University of Rochester
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

Full-time

Re-posted just now


University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.
Job Location (Full Address):
220 Hutchison Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14620
Opening:
Worker Subtype:
Regular
Time Type:
Full time
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Department:
500381 InterpreterSvc-Spanish/Foreign
Work Shift:
UR - Rotating (United States of America)
Range:
UR URG 106 H
Compensation Range:
$21.78 - $30.53
The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.
Responsibilities:
The Spanish interpreter provides interpreting services for all clinical and professional University of Rochester Medical Center staff, patients and family members/significant others who are with the patient. All Interpreters on staff generally provide these services at the Medical Center, Outpatient Clinics, and Hospital Affiliates.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Manages flow of communication autonomously and efficiently between source and target language during medical and non-medical healthcare encounters across URMC's diverse and numerous clinical specialties in inpatient and ambulatory settings.
  • Interpreter carries a pager assigned by the hospital responding to all pages established in NYS Code of Rules and Regulations 405.7 (20 minutes for outpatient/inpatient, 10 minutes for Emergency Department. Services are provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week over varied shifts. On-call interpreters are minimally expected to work two weekend coverage shifts of four hours apiece, or one shift of eight hours.
  • Interprets all assignments, whether prescheduled or received via pager, in a timely and professional manner in accordance with hospital policy
  • Weighs the goals of each encounter in collaboration with clinical healthcare providers and non-clinical hospital staff to determine the situational context of the patient interaction.
  • Chooses appropriate communication ground rules and methods, informs all parties of the role of the interpreter, and briefs healthcare professionals on any knowledge possessed by the interpreter regarding the patient or encounter.
  • Assesses and recommends most effective communication method for patients with barriers to communication, altered mental status, or other special communication needs. Verifies patient's preferred language is correctly identified.
  • Selects appropriate mode for optimal flow of communication (consecutive, simultaneous, sight-translation).
  • Proposes most suitable service delivery modality (in-person, video, telephone) based on the needs of the patient, and in the event of unforeseen communication barriers.
  • Debriefs with healthcare professionals after the encounter, as necessary, to optimize the understanding of the conversational content and provide linguistic and cultural insights.
  • Monitors for linguistic misunderstandings where they exist and recommends adjustments to level of formality and style as needed.
  • Prioritizes, triages, and responds in a timely and appropriate manner to multiple service requests in order of critical urgency and patient acuity.

Assesses and recommends most effective communication method for patients with barriers to communication, altered mental status, or other special communication needs. Verifies patient's preferred language is correctly identified.
  • Proposes most suitable service delivery modality (in-person, video, telephone) based on the needs of the patient, and in the event of unforeseen communication barriers.
  • Monitors for linguistic misunderstandings where they exist and recommends adjustments to level of formality and style as needed.

Supports cultural responsiveness by assessing for cross-cultural impact on communication (verbal and nonverbal) between patients and healthcare providers during highly complex interpersonal encounters
  • Monitors for cultural misunderstandings where they exist and devises appropriate intervention as needed to empower the patient to participate in decisions related to their care
  • Intervenes by confirming with all parties if a possible cultural misunderstanding has occurred by culturally mediating order to avoid assumptions, disrespect, or immediate harm
  • Facilitates the understanding of cultural differences and promotes direct communication to build trust and enhance patient satisfaction
  • Informs patients of available supports as appropriate (Social Worker, Case Manager, Care Coordinator, Financial Coordinator, Chaplain, etc.)
  • Promotes inclusive and equitable communication during interactions with all parties.

Contributes as integral member of clinical and non-clinical healthcare teams, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week as the specialist in language and culture
  • Provides interdisciplinary education to all team members for effective communication, as needed, during encounters, patient trainings and teachings
  • Facilitates meaningful access to URMC health programs for patients with limited English proficiency to remain compliant with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 13166: Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency, Medicaid Managed Care Requirements (42 C.F.R. 438.10) The US Department of Health and Human Services National Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Service (CLAS) Standards, The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Section 1557, The NYS Code of Rules and Regulations 405.7, NYS Executive Order 26, and The Joint Commission
  • Identifies interpreting service needs based on patient/provider dynamics, best practices, and effective communication, and informs program leadership of recommendations for service enhancements

Applies established national healthcare interpreter code of ethics and standards of practice. Adheres to Joint Commission Standards, department policies, safety protocols and infection control standards, and completes service provision documentation in electronic medical record
  • Discloses and justifies any potential limitations, conflicts or need for recusal appropriately and timely
  • Supports and upholds patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA
  • Intervenes impartially and transparently, when necessary, acting within appropriate professional boundaries to protect autonomy, dignity, and safety of all parties
  • Maintains interpreter performance-based skills assessed either at time of hire or through direct observation
  • Enhances skills by participating in activities for professional growth and development through interpreter webinars, conferences, annual trainings, and self-directed learning

Completes scheduled training and other required staff activities
  • Yearly mandatory online policy and procedure training
  • Yearly health updates
  • Attends staff meetings
  • Other training/activities as necessary

Completes all documentation, paperwork and administrative duties
  • eRecord completed at the end of each patient interaction
  • Database entries based on completed schedules and requests
  • Yearly certification update if applicable
  • Professional development transcripts
  • Other paperwork and assignments as necessary

Other duties as assigned
MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Associate's degree required
  • Bachelor's degree strongly preferred
  • One year interpreting in a healthcare setting strongly preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Must be fluent in English and Spanish with strong verbal and written skills in both languages required
  • Knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, clinical tests and procedures in working languages strongly preferred
  • Strong customer service and communication skills strongly preferred
  • Ability to travel to offsite locations required

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • Completion of 40 hour training course in medical interpreting required
  • Certification in healthcare interpreting through CCHI or IMIA strongly preferred at time of hire or within 18 months of hire
  • Translation certification preferred

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create - and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.

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