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Phone Interpreter Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Interpreter - Fulani

Rochester, NY · On-site

$68K/yr

Connect with clients virtually, over the phone, and in person. Ensure timely communication is ... Experience interpreting and translating in English and Fulani . * Ability to travel onsite for ...

Interpreter - Hausa

Rochester, NY · On-site

$68K/yr

Connect with clients virtually, over the phone, and in person. Ensure timely communication is ... Experience interpreting and translating in English and Hausa . * Ability to travel onsite for ...

Interpreter - Kurdish

Rochester, NY · On-site

$68K/yr

Connect with clients virtually, over the phone, and in person. Ensure timely communication is ... Experience interpreting and translating in English and Kurdish . * Ability to travel onsite for ...

Connect with clients virtually, over the phone, and in person. Ensure timely communication is ... Experience interpreting and translating in English and Fulani . * Ability to travel onsite for ...

Connect with clients virtually, over the phone, and in person. Ensure timely communication is ... Experience interpreting and translating in English and Hausa . * Ability to travel onsite for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Phone Interpreter information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$29.1K

$64.7K

$69.9K

How much do phone interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for phone interpreter in Rochester, NY is $64,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $68,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges phone interpreters face during calls, and how can they be managed?

Phone interpreters often encounter challenges such as poor audio quality, lack of visual cues, and handling emotionally charged conversations. To manage these issues, interpreters should ask for clarification when necessary, maintain a calm and neutral tone, and use active listening skills to ensure accuracy. Working in a quiet environment and developing strong note-taking techniques can also help overcome these challenges and ensure effective communication between all parties.

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

To thrive as a Phone Interpreter, you need native or near-native proficiency in at least two languages, strong listening skills, and a solid understanding of interpreting techniques, often supported by a relevant certification. Familiarity with telecommunication platforms, call center software, and terminology databases is typically required. Outstanding soft skills include cultural sensitivity, clarity under pressure, and the ability to remain impartial during sensitive conversations. These competencies ensure accurate, confidential, and effective communication between parties in diverse and sometimes urgent situations.

What is the difference between Phone Interpreter vs In-Person Interpreter?

AspectPhone InterpreterIn-Person Interpreter
CredentialsTypically requires certification such as Certified Medical Interpreter or similarSame certifications as Phone Interpreter, often with additional in-person proficiency assessments
Work EnvironmentRemote, over the phone or video callsOn-site, in hospitals, courts, or other facilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, legal, customer service industriesHealthcare, legal, government, and community services
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for remote language support rolesOften searched for on-site language assistance roles

Both Phone Interpreters and In-Person Interpreters require similar certifications and serve overlapping industries. The main difference lies in the work environment: Phone Interpreters work remotely via calls, while In-Person Interpreters operate on-site. Your choice depends on your preference for remote work versus direct, face-to-face interaction.

What is a phone interpreter?

A phone interpreter is a professional who facilitates communication between people who speak different languages by translating spoken conversations over the phone. They listen to what one party says, interpret it into another language, and relay the message to the other party, ensuring understanding on both sides. Phone interpreters are often used in situations where in-person interpretation isn’t possible, such as for customer service, medical appointments, or legal proceedings. Their role is crucial for breaking down language barriers and ensuring clear, accurate communication.
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Phone Interpreter jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Phone Interpreter job openings:
Infographic showing various Phone Interpreter job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,719 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description:

We are Hiring!


Job Posting: Interpreter

Location: Community Based, 87 N. Clinton Home Location

Department: Interpreting Services

Employment Type: Per Diem

Schedule: Varied

Salary: $20.00 - $24.00 / hour depending on language and interpreting experience



We encourage your application for ANY language, but we are specifically seeking Interpreters for the following languages:

  • Spanish

Please clearly indicate which languages you are able to interpret in on your application



As a regional agency of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester, Catholic Charities Family and Community Services (CCFCS) has been serving our community for over 100 years. We walk with people when they are at their most vulnerable as they journey toward independence to reach their full human potential, advocate for those in need throughout all stages of life; and work in partnership with faith communities of all denominations and those who are committed to addressing local needs.


If you’re looking for an opportunity to express and explore your passion for helping others, then join a team that truly makes a difference DAILY, in people's lives. Don't miss out on being a part of something special!



General Description

Under general supervision, the incumbent serves as a medical and community interpreter for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) individuals served by Language Services customers in the consecutive or simultaneous translation modes. Relays critical information between speakers of two different languages in compliance with Language Services and its customers policies and procedures, particularly relating to patient confidentiality and informed consent, adhering to the Language Services Standard of Performance, and the Medical Interpreters Code of Ethics. Effectively supports ongoing and collaborative communication amongst all program staff, and is responsible for ensuring a trauma informed care environment.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Helps facilitate successful delivery of services to linguistically diverse consumers for internal and external Language Services customers.
    • Interprets with highest degree of accuracy and completeness in consecutive or simultaneous translation modes.
    • Self-corrects, understands own linguistic limitations, seeks clarification and accepts correction.
    • Practices active listening and picks up cues from participants regarding level of understanding and/or need for clarification, as well as understanding of interpretation process.
    • Understands language as an expression of culture and uses this to empower patient and provider to better understand each other.
    • Explains role of the interpreter to patient and provider.
    • Recognizes the complexity of the clinical encounter and added factor of linguistic barrier.
    • Sets tone of the patient/provider encounter to manage flow of communication to preserve accuracy and completeness, and to assess and address potential areas of discomfort for patient (age, gender of interpreter, no previous experience with interpreters).
    • Encourages and fosters direct communication between provider and patient.
    • Maintains professional distance and integrity.
    • Diffuses conflict between parties by remaining calm and impartial.
    • Clarifies instructions, follow up steps in a diplomatic, effective manner.
    • Understands and abides by Language Services and its customers policies on patient confidentiality, informed consent, non-discrimination and by interpreters code of ethics and standards of practice.
  • Serves as a cultural and linguistic resource to both patients and providers to contribute to successful outcomes.
    • Intervenes as intercultural mediator when communication is compromised by culture-bound messages.
    • Avoids generalizations and stereotyping
    • Uses culturally appropriate behavior and is able to choose appropriate time to clarify or interject.
    • Is aware of own personal values, beliefs and cultural characteristics which may be a source of conflict or discomfort in certain situations, is able to acknowledge these and/or to withdraw from encounters when these may interfere with successful interpretation.
  • Utilize on-line computer systems such as Outlook and medical interpreter scheduling software on your Apple or Android smart phone.
  • Flexible to meet scheduling needs and handle often unpredictable changes.
  • Maintains composure and a professional demeanor under stressful, distracting, or challenging situations.
  • Participates in relevant Agency meetings and/or trainings
  • Actively pursues development of professional competencies related to job role performance through reading, supervision, in-service training.
  • Awareness of and active support of the Agency's Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive. Employees are required to follow appropriate supervisory direction and perform other related duties as required.


Top Benefits and Perks:

  • Competitive salary and 403b retirement plan
  • Generous time off package and work-life balance
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Supportive and collaborative environment
  • Opportunities for growth and development
  • Intrinsic reward of truly making a difference in people's lives

Join us and help make a positive impact in our community!



***Catholic Charities Family and Community Services is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our agency and our people. EOE/AA Disability/Vet

Requirements:

Qualifications

Education: Associate’s Degree in a related field preferred. Equivalent Combination of education and experience will be considered.


Credentials: Valid and clean NYS Driver’s License. Medical and/or Community Interpreter course is also preferred.


Experience: Ability to speak English and at least one additional language. Minimum of one year of experience providing language interpreting services on a paid or volunteer capacity. Must be proficient with Microsoft Outlook, and experience with online-based platforms is preferred. Experience working in multicultural environments and/or human services field is preferred.


Physical Demands/Work Environment: The physical demands/work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, stand, walk, use hands to type and/or perform light lifting. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.


Compliance: Adheres to all applicable federal and state laws and regulations including, but not limited to, those governing confidentiality, privacy, program, billing, and documentation standards. All duties must be performed in accordance with CCFCS’s corporate compliance & ethics program. Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background check. CCDOR considers all background check information in accordance with applicable law.


Additional Requirements:

  • Ability to prioritize assignments, plan, and complete work projects with minimal direction,
  • An ability to work efficiently and effectively and meet deadlines,
  • An ability to work under pressure,
  • Excellent verbal/written skills,
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality,
  • Ability to demonstrate behaviors and attitudes which support agency mission, philosophy, and policies.
  • Willingness and ability to foster agency and program wide cooperation and teamwork through use of positive/constructive communication techniques,
  • Possession of a valid NYS Driver’s license and use of a registered and reliable vehicle.