Sign Language / Interpreter Career Facts
What They Do:
The Sign Language Interpreter is a person specially trained
to facilitate communication between the deaf, hard of
hearing and hearing communities. Employment opportunities
may be in educational settings, freelance, or contracted
with agencies to provide interpreter services for deaf
persons. Positions include those working with vocational
rehabilitation, community service agencies, local school
districts, gerontology, the Peace Corps,
self employment as free lance interpreters, social service
agencies, communication facilities, college and
universities.
Who Would Enjoy It:
Someone who would enjoy this field would have
characteristics that include flexibility, objectivity,
self-discipline and self-motivation, sensitivity to others,
punctuality and responsibility. They must be able to focus
their attention on one task at a time and be accurate in
their actions/duties. They must also be able to maintain a
low profile, so that the attention of the participants is
not focused on him or her.
What They Earn:
Salaries range from $10,000 to $45,000 depending on one's
employer, experience, hours worked and location. Some
interpreters who only work part-time or as a free-lancer may
earn between $20 and $45 per hour.
How Much Schooling, Training, or Skill Development:
An associate degree is required by most employers, along
with continual and periodic classes and certification. A
bachelor's degree will be helpful to make one more
competitive in this field.
Related Occupations:
Teacher for the Deaf, Social Work and Counseling
