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Sign Language Interpreter Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Language Interpretation and Translation Posting Specifics * Pay Range: $21.70 - $31.90 * Benefits ... Expected to drive a vehicle which requires sitting, seeing and reading signs, traffic signals, and ...

Language Pairs: * Cantonese English * Korean English * French English * Haitian Creole English ... Interpreters at TPC play a vital role in facilitating accurate and culturally appropriate ...

If you're excited by meaningful work and thrive on purpose, this role gives you the chance to use your language skills to make a real difference! Interpreters at TPC play a vital role in facilitating ...

If you're excited by meaningful work and thrive on purpose, this role gives you the chance to use your language skills to make a real difference! Interpreters at TPC play a vital role in facilitating ...

If you're excited by meaningful work and thrive on purpose, this role gives you the chance to use your language skills to make a real difference! Interpreters at TPC play a vital role in facilitating ...

If you're excited by meaningful work and thrive on purpose, this role gives you the chance to use your language skills to make a real difference! Interpreters at TPC play a vital role in facilitating ...

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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 Jun 12, 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.

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.

Is there a high demand for sign language interpreters?

Sign language interpreters are in high demand across various settings such as healthcare, education, and government agencies due to the need for effective communication with the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than average, especially for those with certification and proficiency in multiple sign languages.

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 familiarity with interpreting tools are also important.

How much do sign language interpreters earn?

Sign language interpreters' earnings vary based on experience, location, and setting, but the median annual salary in many regions is around $50,000 to $70,000. Freelance interpreters or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher rates, often charging $30 to $100 per hour. Many work in educational, healthcare, or legal environments, with some working part-time or on a contract basis.

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.
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 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:
Infographic showing various Sign Language Interpreter job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,725 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
(Cedar Rapids) ON-SITE Pashto Spoken Language Interpreter - Independent Contractor

(Cedar Rapids) ON-SITE Pashto Spoken Language Interpreter - Independent Contractor

Hands Up Communications

Cedar Rapids, IA

Contractor

Posted yesterday


Job description

JOB TITLE: PashtoSpoken Language Interpreter - Independent Contractor

FLSA STATUS: Independent Contractor

JOB SUMMARY:Qualified Foreign Language Interpreters are responsible for facilitating on-site, online, and phone interpreting in a professional and accurate manner. Interpreters will make use of the necessary platforms (Boostlingo, Zoom, etc.) and equipment (as needed) to provide accessible, clear, and articulate interpretations. Interpreters must possess and maintain competence, proficiency, and professionalism in English and their other working languages. Due to the sensitive nature of much of the information processed during an interpretation session, interpreters must adhere to ethical and confidential standards at all times.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Facilitate many kinds of face-to-face conversations for customers, settings may include emergency rooms, medical, legal, social services, and educational.
  • Effectively interpret between people who speak different languages, accurately repeating critical information from one person to another.
  • Perform translations that are grammatically and syntactically accurate.
  • Punctuality and attendance are expected; timeliness is necessary as it directly reflects on the agency as well as the interpreter.If an issue arises it is the interpreter's responsibility to inform the scheduling staff as soon as possible.
  • Interpreters are expected to work collaboratively with other internal or external interpreters.
  • As a representative of Hands Up Communications interpreters should exhibit professional behavior including attire, timeliness, attitude, manner, and overall behavior.
  • Interpreters are expected to adhere to ethical standards, procedures, and protocols specific to interpreting context (i.e. hospitals, courts, schools, etc.).
  • Confidentiality is required for all interpreting assignments unless specific circumstances arise that would cause the interpreter to violate the law. The content learned while on assignment is considered confidential. Additional information can be found in Hands Up Communication's confidentiality/HIPAA agreements.
  • Effectively represent the Hands Up Communications brand when interacting with customers in the field.
  • If possible, work/mentor with interns - mentoring and providing feedback when appropriate.
  • Utilize the necessary technology for accurate reporting for billing, scheduling, and service evaluation.

QUALIFICATIONS/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:


  • Bachelor of Arts degree (preferred); Associates of Arts degree accepted or 3+ years of experience in lieu of formal degree.

  • Knowledge of the community, culture, and values of the people and language to be interpreted.
  • Facilitate communication between English and the language(s) listed in the proficiency self-assessment.

  • Possess or have the ability to obtain local, regional, or national credentials. Maintain, as applicable, compliance with any national, state, or local licensure and/or certification requirements.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work independently while meeting performance and customer service expectations.
  • Credentialed in medical interpreting completed or in progress with Hands Up Communications.
  • Ability to apply code of ethics and standards of practice.
  • Ability to interpret for extended periods of time.
  • Possess the ability to work in various settings, both indoor and outdoor, with variable lighting and temperatures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:None.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:Typically, the work will happen in normal office working conditions in a climate-controlled environment with minimal safety/health hazard potential. When assigned to on-site appointments, interpreters may work in a variety of environments and locations, medical office, school, court, outside, etc.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Sedentary, sitting, walking, and frequent near vision use for reading and computer usage. Interpreters may be required to sit for long periods of time. Interpreters may encounter a variety of physical demands while working in the field, sitting, standing, walking, steps, etc.

EEO STATEMENT:Hands Up Communications provides equal employment/contracting opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, belief, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants and employees are treated without regard to any of these characteristics. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.