Public Service and Educational Interpreters: Job Overview
Public Service and Educational Interpreters play a crucial role in facilitating communication between individuals who speak different languages. They work in various settings such as government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations.
Public Service and Educational Interpreters: Job Responsibilities
The main responsibility of Public Service and Educational Interpreters is to accurately interpret spoken language from one language to another. They must possess excellent language skills in both the source and target languages to ensure effective communication. These interpreters must also have a deep understanding of cultural nuances and be able to convey messages accurately while maintaining cultural sensitivity.
Public Service and Educational Interpreters: Requirements
In terms of requirements, most employers prefer candidates who have a bachelor's degree in interpretation, translation, or a related field. However, some positions may only require a high school diploma or equivalent, as long as the candidate demonstrates exceptional language skills.
Additionally, many employers require certification from a recognized interpreting organization, such as the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators (NAJIT) or the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI).
Public Service and Educational Interpreters: Annual Salary
When it comes to salary, the average annual salary for Public Service and Educational Interpreters varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for interpreters and translators was $51,830 as of May 2020. However, it's important to note that this figure can vary significantly based on individual circumstances.
Public Service and Educational Interpreters: Language Skills
In terms of language skills needed for this job, Public Service and Educational language Interpreters must be fluent in at least two languages. They should have a strong command of both the source language (the language being spoken or signed by the speaker) and the target language (the language into which the message is being interpreted). Additionally, they should have a deep understanding of the cultural context associated with both languages to ensure accurate interpretation.
Public Service and Educational Interpreters: Training
The 7-week 45-hour Public Service and Educational Interpreting program prepares individuals to be professional interpreters qualified to interpret for local and federal government agencies that provide a range of different public services to their citizens, for non-governmental organizations, union representatives, investigators, and police departments.
The course introduces participants to interpreter’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, interpreter roles and skills and professional terminology used in public service and education fields in English and the target language.