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Simultaneous Interpreter Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Strategic Technologies Specialist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$102K - $142K/yr

... for creating and interpreting data to generate project insights. The Strategic Technologies ... Act as Project Manager for multiple and simultaneous projects. * Support Operations with ...

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Simultaneous Interpreter information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$24.7K

$66K

$107.7K

How much do simultaneous interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for simultaneous interpreter in Chicago, IL is $66,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges simultaneous interpreters face?

Simultaneous Interpreters often work in fast-paced environments such as conferences, legal proceedings, or diplomatic meetings, where they must process and convey complex information in real-time without delays. One key challenge is maintaining accuracy and fluency while listening, mentally translating, and speaking almost simultaneously, sometimes for prolonged periods. Interpreters also need to manage stress and avoid fatigue, as even minor lapses in concentration can affect communication. Collaborating closely with other interpreters, event organizers, and technical staff is typical, requiring strong teamwork and adaptability. Being prepared for a wide range of topics helps interpreters remain effective and confident on the job.

How do you become a simultaneous interpreter?

To become a simultaneous interpreter, typically one needs fluency in at least two languages, a bachelor's degree in translation, interpretation, or a related field, and specialized training in interpretation techniques. Many professionals also obtain certification from organizations like the American Translators Association or similar bodies to demonstrate proficiency and credibility.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a simultaneous interpreter?

To thrive as a Simultaneous Interpreter, you need native or near-native proficiency in at least two languages, quick mental processing, and a degree in interpretation or a related field. Familiarity with interpreting equipment such as headsets, microphones, and specialized software, as well as relevant certifications like those from AIIC or ATA, is often required. Outstanding concentration, cultural awareness, and excellent communication skills help interpreters effectively bridge language gaps in high-pressure situations. These abilities are crucial for accurately conveying messages in real-time, ensuring seamless understanding between parties in multilingual environments.

What is a simultaneous interpreter?

A Simultaneous Interpreter is a professional who translates spoken language in real-time, usually during conferences, meetings, or live events. They listen to the speaker and convey the message in another language almost instantly, often using specialized equipment. This role requires fluency in at least two languages, quick thinking, and excellent concentration. Simultaneous interpreters are essential in international diplomacy, business, and media.

What are the most commonly searched types of Simultaneous Interpreter jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Simultaneous Interpreter jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Simultaneous Interpreter jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Simultaneous Interpreter jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Simultaneous Interpreter job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,002 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Interpreter (OPI) - Government Services

Prisma International, Inc.

Chicago, IL โ€ข Remote

Contractor

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

About Prisma International, Inc. (Prisma) - Prisma is a dynamic and growing language services provider committed to delivering exceptional Interpretation solutions to clients worldwide. We pride ourselves on our dedication to linguistic excellence and client satisfaction.

Prisma is actively seeking experienced, professional Interpreters to join our team as Independent Contractors. In this role you will provide remote Over the Phone Interpreting (OPI) services to our local, state and federal government clients. Please complete the Questionnaire portion of this application to indicate your language specialty.

The following languages are in demand:

Amharic, Armenian, Balinese, Bosnian, Cebuano, Cham, Croatian, Czech, Filipino, Finnish, Fujian, Georgian, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Kyrgyz, Malagasy, Mongolian, Mixteco Alto, Nahuatl, Norwegian (Bokmal), Oromo, Persian (Farsi), Polish, Pohnpeian, Punjabi, Romanian, Samoan, Serbian, Slovak, Somali, Soninke, Swedish, Taiwanese, Tajik, Tamil, Thai, Tongan, Turkish, Uyghur, Uzbek, Wolof, Yiddish, and Yoruba.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Ideal candidates shall be able to provide:

  • Experience with consecutive or simultaneous over the phone (OPI) interpretation between a government representative and non-English speakers.
  • Polite forms of expression, enunciation, and a high-level of customer service.
  • Deliver correct concepts and meanings between speaker and the Limited English Proficient (LEP) speaker.
  • Correct grammar, clarity and tones between the two languages.
  • Experience with following the speakers’ direction, professionally interject when clarification is needed, and manage the flow of a conversation.
  • Refrain from side conversations with the LEP and entering into any disagreement with the customer or LEP.
  • Compliance with applicable ethics and standards.
  • Experience interpreting for local, state and/or federal government offices.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - Applicants must meet ALL of the following to be considered:

  • Experience: At least one (1) year of OPI consecutive or simultaneous interpreting experience
  • References: Two (2) professional references who can vouch for your work as an over the phone consecutive or simultaneous interpreter
  • Resume: The resume/CV you submit must outline your professional interpretation experience. Resumes without this information will result in disqualification.
  • Minimum Age: 18+ years
  • Minimum Education: High School Diploma
  • Location: Reside in the United States or a U.S. territory
  • Fluency: Fluent in English and the target language
  • Accreditations: Able to provide at least one of the following accreditations:
    • American Translation Association (ATA)
    • Trained or accredited through a higher education institution

SECURITY REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants may be subject to a federal background check.

DESIRED SKILLS:

  • Experience providing interpretation services to federal government offices such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and their agencies, e.g. USCIS, CBP, FEMA, etc.

IMPORTANT APPLICANT SECURITY NOTICE:

Prisma will never ask for payment information or fee transfers during recruitment or employment preparation. Legitimate outreach for information will only originate from official @prisma.com email addresses.