Educational Interpreter

Educational Interpreter

The Educational Interpreter provides interpreting services in educational settings and school-related activities for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. This role ensures access to communication and supports student participation in both instructional and extracurricular environments. The Interpreter works closely with teachers and staff to promote student learning, independence, and inclusion.

Position Purpose:

The Educational Interpreter provides interpreting services in educational settings and school-related activities for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. This role ensures access to communication and supports student participation in both instructional and extracurricular environments. The Interpreter works closely with teachers and staff to promote student learning, independence, and inclusion.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Passing score of 3.5 or higher on the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment

Certification and License Requirements:

• Must complete 15 hours annually of professional training related to interpreting, as approved by the local education agency
• Possession of a valid NC driver's license; must maintain a safe driving record

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a K–12 educational setting
• Familiarity with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) guidelines for interpreting services
• Experience providing sign language instruction to small groups of staff or students
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team
• Associate's or Bachelor's Degree

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficiency in the communication modality used by students who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Strong English grammar skills, including syntax, spelling, and punctuation
• Working knowledge of typical language development and the impact of deafness on communication
• Skill in expressive and receptive interpreting at rates commensurate with classroom instruction and conversation
• Ability to provide accurate reverse interpreting while maintaining the integrity of the message
• Strong interpersonal skills with students and adults, with the ability to support and work as part of an educational team
• General knowledge of the subjects being interpreted
• Ability to use professional judgment, maintain confidentiality, and adapt to varied school environments

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Facilitate communication between students who are deaf/hard of hearing and their peers, teachers, and other adults in the school environment
• Study lesson content prior to instruction to ensure accurate representation of classroom material
• Provide tutoring support under the direction of the Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• Provide feedback to teachers regarding student communication or access needs when requested
• Promote positive, cooperative relationships within the school environment
• Teach beginning sign language to students and/or staff as needed
• Act as a liaison to support the success of the Hearing-Impaired Program
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Working Conditions:

Physical Demands:

• Work may require standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods
• Must have manual dexterity and visual acuity necessary for interpreting and monitoring student needs

Work Environment:

• Work is performed primarily indoors in classrooms and school facilities, with occasional participation in outdoor or extracurricular activities
• Regular interaction with staff, students, and families
• On-site work required.

Disclaimer:

The above statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this position. They are not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of employees in this role. The supervisor may revise this description at any time with HR review and approval.