Interpreter

Job Posting Organization:
The organization behind this job posting is the International Rescue Committee (IRC), which was established in 193

• The IRC is dedicated to helping people affected by humanitarian crises to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. With a mission to restore safety, dignity, and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure, the IRC operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively to provide essential services to refugees and displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The Interpreter position is crucial for facilitating communication between Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals and their service providers. This role requires providing in-person and/or remote interpretation services that are accurate, impartial, and confidential. The Interpreter will engage in various activities, including professional interpretation in diverse settings such as clinics, hospitals, schools, community organizations, and government agencies. The position also involves using specific software to track assignments and work hours, as well as participating in training and assessments to enhance skills and competencies. The Interpreter may also be involved in supporting special projects and initiatives as needed, ensuring that the language needs of LEP individuals are met effectively and respectfully.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Interpreter include, but are not limited to:

• Providing accurate, impartial, and confidential interpretation services to LEP individuals and service providers across various settings, including healthcare facilities, educational institutions, community organizations, and government agencies.
• Rendering services in person, via telephone, videoconference, or other virtual means as required.
• Tracking assignments and work hours using designated software to maintain accurate records.
• Participating in training sessions and assessments to improve interpretation skills and knowledge.
• Supporting special projects and initiatives that align with the organization's mission and goals.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Interpreter Coordinator or other supervisory staff.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Interpreter position include a high school diploma, which is strongly preferred. Additionally, an interpretation certification is preferred but not mandatory. Candidates should possess relevant professional interpretation experience, particularly with refugee and/or immigrant populations, which is strongly preferred. Demonstrated skills and competencies such as cultural sensitivity, the ability to build trust with clients, colleagues, and partners, and proficiency in English (both spoken and written) are essential. Spoken proficiency in Arabic is required, with knowledge of dialects such as Levantine, Maghrebi, Egyptian, and Sudanese being preferred. Attention to detail and accuracy in work product, along with basic computer skills (Microsoft Office), are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Interpreter position includes at least a high school diploma, which is strongly preferred. While an interpretation certification is not mandatory, it is highly regarded and can enhance a candidate's qualifications. The emphasis on education reflects the need for a foundational understanding of language and communication principles, which are critical for effective interpretation.

Experience:
Candidates for the Interpreter position should have relevant professional interpretation experience, ideally working with refugee and/or immigrant populations. This experience is crucial as it equips the interpreter with the necessary skills to navigate the unique challenges faced by LEP individuals and to provide effective communication support in various contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, spoken proficiency in Arabic is required, as the role involves interpreting for Arabic-speaking LEP individuals. Knowledge of various Arabic dialects, including Levantine, Maghrebi, Egyptian, and Sudanese, is preferred and can enhance the interpreter's effectiveness in serving diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The working environment for this position includes a combination of standard office settings, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. The role may require occasional weekend and/or evening work to accommodate the needs of clients. The compensation for this position ranges from $19 to $20 per hour, with the posted pay ranges applicable to US-based candidates. These ranges are determined based on various factors, including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering all applicants based on merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. In terms of benefits, the IRC offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including sick days, paid time off, medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program to support staff and their families.