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Language Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ampersand Therapy

Sign Language Interpreter

Lisle, IL · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter | 2026-2027 School Year | Up to $45/hour | Lisle, IL Position Details: * Starting August 2026 * Monday-Friday (flexible schedules available) * Part-time and ...

Birch Agency

Sign Language Interpreter

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$69K/yr

Sign Language Interpreter Location: Philadelphia, PA 19130 Job Position: Deaf Interpreter- $ 2,000 Sign on Bonus Location: Philadelphia, PA 191304 Description: We are seeking a Deaf Interpreter (DI ...

Ampersand Therapy

Sign Language Interpreter

Lisle, IL

$45/hr

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter | 2026-2027 School Year | Up to $45/hour | Lisle, IL Position Details: * Starting August 2026 * Monday-Friday (flexible schedules available) * Part-time and ...

Ampersand Therapy

Sign Language Interpreter

Columbia, SC · On-site

$50/hr

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter - Full Time | Columbia, SC | 2026-2027 School Year | Up to $50/hour Position Details: * 1:1 Position * Full Time - Starting 2026-2027 School Year * Monday ...

Ampersand Therapy

Sign Language Interpreter

Columbia, SC · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter - Full Time | Columbia, SC | 2026-2027 School Year | Up to $50/hour Position Details: * 1:1 Position * Full Time - Starting 2026-2027 School Year * Monday ...

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Language Interpreter information

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$44.1K

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How much do language interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for language interpreter in the United States is $44,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be an interpreter?

To become a language interpreter, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and often a relevant degree or certification in interpretation or translation. Many employers also require strong communication skills, cultural knowledge, and sometimes specialized training or certification from organizations like the American Translators Association or equivalent bodies.

What is the difference between Language Interpreter vs Translator?

AspectLanguage InterpreterTranslator
CredentialsOften requires certification like CI or CTMay require translation certifications, but less standardized
Work EnvironmentReal-time, spoken communication in meetings, courts, hospitalsWritten documents, books, websites, and manuals
Industry UsageLegal, medical, conference, governmentPublishing, legal, technical, marketing
Search & ComparisonOften searched together due to language skills, but roles differ in medium and timing

Language interpreters focus on real-time spoken communication, while translators work on written content. Both roles require language proficiency, but their work environments and certifications differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right career path in language services.

What are some common challenges faced by language interpreters during live assignments, and how can they be managed?

Language interpreters often encounter challenges such as rapidly shifting topics, unfamiliar jargon, and managing stress during high-pressure situations. To handle these, interpreters typically prepare by researching the subject matter in advance, maintaining glossaries of specialized terms, and practicing active listening to ensure accuracy. Effective communication with clients and team members before assignments can also help clarify expectations and reduce misunderstandings. Continuous professional development and peer support are valuable strategies for managing the demands of live interpretation work.

What language interpreters get paid most?

Language interpreters who specialize in in-demand languages such as Japanese, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian tend to earn higher wages due to the scarcity of qualified professionals. Additionally, interpreters working in specialized fields like medical, legal, or technical settings often command higher pay, especially if they hold certifications and have extensive experience. Salary can also vary based on location, with interpreters in major metropolitan areas typically earning more.

What are language interpreters?

Language interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between people who speak different languages. They convert spoken or signed messages from one language into another in real-time, ensuring that the original meaning, tone, and context are preserved. Interpreters work in a variety of settings, including conferences, hospitals, courts, schools, and government agencies. Their role is essential for enabling effective cross-cultural communication and ensuring that information is accurately conveyed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Language Interpreter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Language Interpreter, you need fluency in at least two languages, strong listening skills, and a deep understanding of cultural nuances, often supported by a relevant degree or professional certification. Familiarity with interpretation tools, such as computer-assisted interpreting (CAI) software, and knowledge of industry-specific terminology are frequently required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate and effective communication across languages and contexts.

What qualifications do you need to be a language interpreter?

To become a language interpreter, individuals typically need fluency in at least two languages and often hold a bachelor's degree in translation, linguistics, or a related field. Certification from professional organizations, such as the American Translators Association, can enhance job prospects, and strong communication and cultural knowledge are essential skills.

How much do language interpreters earn?

Language interpreters' earnings vary based on experience, language pair, and work setting. On average, they earn between $20 and $50 per hour, with some professionals earning higher rates for specialized or freelance work. Salaries can also depend on certification, location, and whether they work full-time or part-time.
More about Language Interpreter jobs
What cities are hiring for Language Interpreter jobs? Cities with the most Language Interpreter job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Language Interpreter jobs? The top employers for Language Interpreter jobs are:
What states have the most Language Interpreter jobs? States with the most job openings for Language Interpreter jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Language Interpreter jobs? For Language Interpreter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Language Interpreter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Language Interpreter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,079 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Sign Language Interpreter

Sign Language Interpreter

Lane Education Service District

Eugene, OR • On-site

$26.48 - $45.67/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Special Education - Classified/Sign Language Interpreter
Date Posted:
6/5/2026
Location:
LESD District Office
Date Available:
2026-27 School Year
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled
Sign Language Interpreter
Position Type: Classified
Hours/FTE: .9375 FTE
Salary: $26.48- $45.67 per hour
FLSA: Non-exempt
Contract Status: Regular/Probationary
Start Date: Upon Hire
Calendar: 192 days per year (can vary based on school calendar)
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision insurance, paid leaves and holidays, Public Employee Retirement (PERS). Full description of benefits available in ESD-LCEA Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Notes: Five positions are available.
Title: Sign Language Interpreter
Position Purpose
This position serves as a member of the educational team along with Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) and is available to address communication accessibility and deaf cultural issues as they arise. The position also provides re-teaching and other academic and classroom support.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide accurate interpretation appropriate to the student's age, register, personality, affect, learning style and language competencies.
    • For students in all academic situations including classrooms, library, assemblies, and field trips.
    • For students in school locations such as health center, counseling center, and administration.
    • For students during extracurricular activities such as sports, drama, music, clubs and school-wide programs.
  • Provide tactile interpretation or alternatives to American Sign Language (ASL) or Contact Varieties as appropriate to the needs of students who are Deaf/Blind, cognitively impaired, or having multiple disabilities or severe language delays.
  • Prepare for student interpretation needs.
    • Consult with classroom teacher regarding, curriculum content, general goals, new vocabulary or materials presented.
    • Gather information necessary to effectively interpret special school activities and extra-curricular events such as theater arts, music, storytelling, poetry, field trips and assemblies.
    • Consider accessibility of instructional plans and educational environment to support effective interpreting while teaming with classroom teacher.
  • Maintain a broad knowledge base that covers academic areas from kindergarten through Advanced Placement.
  • Provide information to classroom teachers, students and staff regarding effective and appropriate use of interpreters.
    • Roles, responsibilities, and boundaries of educational interpreters
    • Technical needs of interpreting, i.e., lighting, visual aids, positioning, and the challenges related to interpreting between languages.
  • Work collaboratively with the DHH teachers and classroom teachers to support students.
  • Provide academic assistance and social support for students who are DHH, under the direction of the DHH teacher or classroom teacher.
    • Teach sign language to assigned students
    • Serve as language role model and facilitate acquisition and expansion of both sign language and English.
    • Facilitate communication and socialization between Deaf/Hard of Hearing students and hearing peers.
    • Provide updates on progress or issues encountered.
  • Collect and summarize data as required by DHH teacher and IEP teams.
  • Maintain regular contact with the DHH teacher regarding student's progress toward IEP goals.
  • Serve as a member of student IEP teams as assigned.
  • Provide interpretation for other deaf consumers (deaf professionals, deaf parents) related to the provision of educational services in Lane County.
  • Attend meetings, trainings and professional development activities as required.
  • Maintain substitute packet related to assigned students and serve as a substitute interpreter as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as assigned. Examples include mentoring interpreter interns, assisting with staff meetings.

Qualifications
  • Associate's Degree from an Interpreter Education Program; Bachelor's Degree preferred.
  • Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), Contact Variety and English as demonstrated by Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) at level 3.5 or above; RID NIC, CI or CT Certification may be considered as an alternative to EIPA score.
  • Proficiency in comprehension and expression of American Sign Language, Contact Variety, and Manual Coded English.
  • Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skill in both English and Sign Language.
  • Ability to adjust communication to meet language and developmental level of assigned students to facilitate comprehension.
  • Knowledge of instructional supports for students who are deaf and hard of hearing.
  • Ability to understand and interpret curriculum from Kindergarten to Advanced placement classes such as Science and Math and Foreign Language.
  • Experience providing supplemental instruction under the direction of a licensed teacher.
  • Ability to support social and communication skills development appropriate for participation in mainstream hearing environments.
  • Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with an educational team.
  • Well-developed manual and facial dexterity necessary to produced readable sign language and sign language expression is required.
  • Visual and hearing acuity necessary to provide effective interpretation in a variety of educational environments is required.
  • Basic proficiency in the use of technology necessary to perform job functions, including internet, email, calendaring software and word processing and the ability to learn district specific software.
  • Ability to fluently speak, read, and write required.
  • A valid Oregon driver's license or ability to obtain one by date of hire is required.

About Lane Regional Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program
Lane Regional Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program serves students who are deaf and hard of hearing. Lane Regional Program teachers work with students, parents, school staff and other community agencies to help provide accessible education for students who are deaf or hard of hearing in Lane County. Both direct instruction focusing the unique communication needs of students who are deaf or hard of hearing and their development of language and Technical assistance and consultation are provided.
The Lane Regional Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program is part of the Special Education Service Area, which also provides School Psychologist services, Speech Language Therapy and Augmentative Communication services, behavior consultation, and direct services for students with moderate and severe disabilities, students with emotional/behavioral disorders, and adjudicated at-risk youth. Lane Regional Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program is funded by the Department of Education and is part of Oregon's service delivery for students with low-incidence disabilities (Vision Impairments, Hearing Impairments, Deaf/Blindness, Severe Orthopedic Impairments, Autism, and Traumatic Brain Injury.
About Lane ESD
In providing services to Lane County school districts, Lane ESD seeks to fulfill our core purpose of Shaping the Future: Supporting Excellence in Education. Lane ESD employees strive to embody core values of equity, commitment, leadership, collaboration, and integrity.
The mission of education service districts is to assist school districts and the Department of Education in achieving Oregon's educational goals by providing equitable, high quality, cost-effective and locally responsive educational services at a regional level. The ESD partners with school districts, local universities and community college, and other community agencies in providing quality services to the component school districts in Lane County.
Lane Education Service District provides a wide array of services to the 16 School Districts in Lane County serving about 45,000 students. Services in special education, school improvement, technology, and administrative services are designed to support districts in meeting the challenge of serving a diverse student population. We focus on systemic school improvement, multicultural curriculum, and assisting districts in development of students who are well prepared to be global citizens. Additional information about Lane ESD is available at www.lesd.k12.or.us
Lane ESD is an equal opportunity employer, and complies with federal and state statutes which prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, handicap and marital status.

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