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Sign Language Interpreter Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

American Sign Language Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a American Sign Language Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of ... interpreting career pathways. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ASL ...

Varsity Tutors

American Sign Language Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a American Sign Language Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of ... interpreting career pathways. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ASL ...

Imh

Spanish Medical Interpreter

George, IA · On-site

$22.98 - $35/hr

Language Interpretation and Translation Posting Specifics * Pay Range: $22.98 - $35.00. Pay is ... Expected to drive a vehicle which requires sitting, seeing and reading signs, traffic signals, and ...

State of Iowa

Speech Language Pathologist

Des Moines, IA

$48K - $116K/yr

Support ISD school personnel Assist faculty and support staff in interpreting assessments and other ... Knowledge of American Sign Language. SKILLS: Excellent communication skills with diverse groups ...

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All JobsSign Language Interpreter JobsSign Language Interpreter Jobs in Iowa

Sign Language Interpreter information

See Iowa salary details

$27.7K

$61.7K

$66.7K

How much do sign language interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for sign language interpreter in Iowa is $61,725.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,800.00 and $64,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Sign Language Interpreter do?

A Sign Language Interpreter facilitates communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and those who do not use sign language. They listen to spoken language and translate it into sign language, or vice versa, ensuring that the message is conveyed accurately and appropriately. Interpreters work in a variety of settings, such as schools, hospitals, courts, and public events. Their role is essential for providing equal access to information and services for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

What Is a Sign Language Interpreter?

A sign language interpreter is a professional who translates between deaf and hearing people using American Sign Language (ASL). By translating the spoken language and American Sign Language, they facilitate understanding between these two groups in everyday situations. Sign language interpreting is a vital service for the deaf community, allowing them to communicate with the hearing world. ASL can be used by sign language interpreters in schools, with doctors and patients, during performances or meetings, and in business.

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

A Sign Language Interpreter must possess fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and English, along with a relevant degree or certification such as RID (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf) credentialing. Familiarity with video relay systems, remote interpreting platforms, and specialized interpreting software is often required. Exceptional listening skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to remain impartial are valuable soft skills in this profession. These competencies ensure clear, accurate communication between deaf and hearing individuals and uphold professional standards in diverse settings.

How much money do sign interpreters make?

Sign language interpreters' salaries vary based on experience, location, and setting, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $50,000. Interpreters working in healthcare, legal, or educational environments with certification and specialized skills tend to earn higher wages, and many work on a freelance basis or through agencies. Hourly rates can range from $20 to $60 or more depending on the complexity of assignments and demand.

What is the difference between Sign Language Interpreter vs Speech-Language Pathologist?

AspectSign Language InterpreterSpeech-Language Pathologist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., NIC, RID)Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, state licensure
Work EnvironmentEducational, healthcare, legal, community settingsHealthcare, schools, clinics, hospitals
Industry UsageFacilitates communication for deaf/hard-of-hearing individualsDiagnoses and treats speech, language, and swallowing disorders

Sign Language Interpreters primarily facilitate communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and hearing people, focusing on real-time translation. Speech-Language Pathologists diagnose and treat speech and language disorders, often working directly with patients to improve communication skills. While both roles involve communication, their credentials, work environments, and objectives differ significantly.

What qualifications do I need to be a sign language interpreter?

To become a sign language interpreter, individuals typically need to be fluent in sign language and obtain certification from a recognized organization such as the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required, and some roles may require an associate's or bachelor's degree in interpreting, deaf studies, or a related field. Strong communication skills, cultural competence, and knowledge of interpreting ethics are also essential.

Is there a demand for sign language interpreters?

Yes, there is a strong and growing demand for sign language interpreters across various settings such as education, healthcare, and government services. The need for qualified interpreters is driven by increased awareness of accessibility and legal requirements, and certification through organizations like the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) can enhance job prospects.

How much do sign interpreters earn?

Sign language interpreters' earnings vary based on experience, location, and setting, but they typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour. Certified interpreters with specialized skills or working in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, and many work freelance or on a contract basis for increased pay.

What are some common challenges Sign Language Interpreters face when working in fast-paced environments, and how can they overcome them?

Sign Language Interpreters often encounter challenges in fast-paced settings, such as interpreting during meetings, conferences, or medical emergencies, where speakers may talk quickly or multiple people may speak at once. Managing these situations requires excellent concentration, quick decision-making, and the ability to request clarifications or pauses when needed. Building strong rapport with clients and colleagues, preparing ahead by reviewing relevant materials, and staying current with professional training can help interpreters navigate these challenges and ensure accurate communication.
More about Sign Language Interpreter jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Iowa are:
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What job categories do people searching Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Sign Language Interpreter jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Sign Language Interpreter jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Sign Language Interpreter job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sign Language Interpreter jobs in IA? For Sign Language Interpreter jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sign Language Interpreter jobs near you
American Sign Language Tutor

American Sign Language Tutor

Varsity Tutors

Ames, IA • Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Varsity Tutors rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 21 rated private schools and tutoring

Job description

About the Job
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online American Sign Language tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
  • Earn incrementally higher pay for each session with the same student, reaching up to $40/hour.
  • Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions you conduct and invoice.
  • Set your own hours and tutor as much as you'd like.
  • Tutor remotely using our purpose-built Live Learning Platform. No commuting required.
  • Get matched with students best-suited to your teaching style and expertise.
  • Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson generation, and engagement features, helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching.
  • We handle the logistics—you just invoice for your tutoring sessions, and we take care of payments.

What We Look For In a American Sign Language Tutor
  • Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of ASL grammar and syntax, manual alphabet, number systems, classifiers, non-manual markers including facial expressions, spatial referencing, iconic and arbitrary signs, and Deaf culture and history. Ability to explain ASL sentence structure, topic-comment word order, and the role of facial grammar while preparing students for ASL proficiency assessments and Deaf community engagement.
  • Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching sign production, receptive comprehension, and ASL conversational skills through visual and kinesthetic methods. Guides students through finger-spelling practice, vocabulary expansion through thematic units, narrative construction using classifiers, and understanding non-manual grammatical markers. Emphasizes developing visual-spatial communication skills and connects ASL to Deaf culture, accessibility, and interpreting career pathways.
  • Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with ASL curricula and common challenges such as developing non-manual marker fluency, understanding spatial grammar concepts, and building receptive speed. Adapts instruction using video modeling, interactive signing activities, and Deaf cultural content to support hearing students from beginning through advanced levels seeking language credit, interpreter training preparation, or personal communication skills.
  • Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs and styles.
  • Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style.
  • Ability to adapt to different learning styles and student needs.

Ways To Connect With Students
  • 1-on-1 Online Tutoring - Provide personalized instruction to individual students.
  • Instant Tutoring - Accept on-demand tutoring requests whenever you're available.

About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.

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