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Volunteer Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MD · On-site

$55K - $87K/yr

Formal interpretation services may include documented work as a volunteer interpreter for a nonprofit, human service or faith-based organization. Notes : 1. Candidates may substitute courses from an ...

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Volunteer Interpreter information

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$24K

$64K

$104.5K

How much do volunteer interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for volunteer interpreter in the United States is $64,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Interpreter, you need fluency in at least two languages, a strong grasp of cultural nuances, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with interpretation equipment, remote communication platforms, and potentially completion of community interpreter training are valuable. Excellent listening skills, empathy, and the ability to remain impartial help interpreters build trust and ensure effective communication. These skills are crucial to accurately bridging language gaps and providing essential services to diverse communities.

What are some common challenges faced by volunteer interpreters, and how can they be managed?

Volunteer Interpreters often encounter challenges such as navigating unfamiliar dialects, managing emotionally charged conversations, and adapting quickly to different settings. To handle these situations effectively, it's important to maintain professionalism, ask for clarification when needed, and take time to prepare by researching terminology relevant to the assignment. Support from team members and regular feedback can also help interpreters grow and deliver accurate, compassionate service.

What is the difference between Volunteer Interpreter vs Professional Interpreter?

AspectVolunteer InterpreterProfessional Interpreter
CredentialsOften no formal certification required, but language proficiency is essentialTypically requires certification or accreditation (e.g., NAATI, ATA)
Work EnvironmentCommunity events, non-profit organizations, hospitals, schoolsLegal, medical, conference settings, government agencies
Employer & IndustryNon-profit, community services, healthcareLegal firms, healthcare institutions, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentVolunteer Interpreter vs Professional Interpreter

Volunteer interpreters provide language assistance without pay, often in community or healthcare settings, focusing on helping underserved populations. Professional interpreters are certified, work in specialized fields like legal or medical environments, and are paid for their services. The main difference lies in certification, paid status, and work scope, though both roles require strong language skills and cultural competence.

What is a volunteer interpreter?

Volunteer interpreters are individuals who provide language interpretation services without receiving payment. They help bridge communication gaps between people who speak different languages, often assisting in settings like hospitals, schools, community centers, or nonprofit organizations. Their work ensures that essential information is accurately conveyed, promoting understanding and access to services for non-native speakers. Volunteer interpreters typically possess strong language skills and cultural understanding, and they may work either in person or remotely.
What cities are hiring for Volunteer Interpreter jobs? Cities with the most Volunteer Interpreter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Interpreter jobs? The most popular types of Interpreter jobs are:
What states have the most Volunteer Interpreter jobs? States with the most job openings for Volunteer Interpreter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Volunteer Interpreter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,020 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

$55K - $87K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


State Of Maryland rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction
The Maryland School for the Deaf provides an inclusive, language-rich environment for deaf and hard of hearing students from birth through age 21. Rooted in a bilingual education approach, we ensure full access to American Sign Language and English across comprehensive academic, extracurricular, and student life programs. In partnership with families and communities, we empower students to think critically and develop a sense of self and belonging.
The Maryland School for the Deaf (MSD) is seeking staff Interpreters to provide direct interpreting services to students, families, employees, school resource officer, and visitors in varying situations in American Sign Language (ASL)/English.
This is a 12-month, part-time position, therefore the salary range will be prorated to $27,855.00 - $43,933.50.
GRADE
13
LOCATION OF POSITION
MSD, Columbia Campus, 8169 Old Montgomery Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043
Main Purpose of Job
The Staff Interpreter will provide interpreting services while working with, but not limited to, students, families, employees, visitors, school resource officer (SRO), members of the public, other state employees, state legislators, etc. in-person at both the MSD campus and off-site locations as well as virtually.
POSITION DUTIES
Facilitate communication by interpreting from Sign to Voice and/or from Voice to Sign in a variety of settings (IEPs, board meetings, personnel and administrative matters, staff trainings, parent/teacher conferences, home visits, classroom, school events, social situations, etc.) by conveying the content and spirit of the speaker using the language most readily understood by the person(s) being served. Perform administrative tasks associated with interpreting related assignments.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.
Experience: Three years of experience providing formal interpretation and translation services between English and a second language. Formal interpretation services may include documented work as a volunteer interpreter for a nonprofit, human service or faith-based organization.
Notes:
1. Candidates may substitute courses from an accredited college or university, on a year-for-year basis, for up to two years of the required experience.
2. Candidates may substitute additional experience interpreting and translating between English and a second language for the required education.
3. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a non-commissioned officer in interpreter/translator classification or interpreter/translator specialty codes in the foreign affairs field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Completion of a post-secondary degree program in Interpreter Preparation/Training.
- Interpreting certification granted by a national certifying board (RID or NAD).
- Working knowledge of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct.
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS
Must meet state licensure requirements to work as an Interpreter.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
New hires are subject to a criminal background investigation at their own expense. (Maryland Code, Family Law Article 1, Sections 5-560-568)
Candidates will need to provide three letters of recommendation.
SELECTION PROCESS
Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.
EXAMINATION PROCESS
The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.
BENEFITS
STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
Online application process is STRONGLY preferred. If unable to apply online, or if you encounter difficulty, you may submit via mail, e-mail, fax, or deliver in person before the closing date and time. Please include your name and recruitment number on any documentation to ensure timely processing. Resumes will NOT be accepted in lieu of completing the online or paper application. Additional or supplemental information must be submitted by the closing date and time. Application inquiries or supplemental information can be directed to the following:
Mailing Address: Maryland School for the Deaf Recruitment Department, P. O. Box 894, Columbia, MD 21044
E-mail: emily.hicks@msd.edu
Phone: 410-696-3031, TTY Users: call via Maryland Relay
Fax: 410-696-3084
Individuals from traditionally underserved and underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Bilingual and disabled applicants are encouraged to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country, and encourage them to apply.

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