Interpreter

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises. Founded in 1933, the IRC has been dedicated to helping people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster. The organization operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, providing assistance to refugees and displaced individuals. The IRC's mission is to help people survive, recover, and gain control of their future, and it employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with local partners to deliver effective and impactful services.

Job Overview:
The Interpreter position is crucial for facilitating communication between Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals and their service providers. This role requires the interpreter to provide 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 compassionately.

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 multiple formats, including in-person, telephone, videoconference, or other virtual means, depending on the needs of the clients.
• Tracking assignments and work hours using designated software to ensure accountability and proper documentation of services rendered.
• Participating in ongoing training and assessments to maintain and 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, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the organization.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Interpreter position include:

• A high school diploma is strongly preferred, indicating a foundational level of education.
• An interpretation certification is preferred, demonstrating formal training and competency in interpretation practices.
• Relevant professional interpretation experience is preferred, particularly in settings that serve refugee and/or immigrant populations.
• Demonstrated skills in cultural sensitivity, with the ability to build trust and rapport with clients, colleagues, and partners.
• Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is essential for effective communication.
• Spoken proficiency in Ukrainian is required, as it is critical for serving the specific population of LEP individuals.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in work product is necessary to ensure high-quality interpretation services.
• Basic computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office, are required to manage documentation and communication effectively.
• Reliable transportation to appointment locations is necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the role.

Educational Background:
The educational background needed for the Interpreter position includes a high school diploma as a minimum requirement. While a diploma is strongly preferred, candidates with additional qualifications such as an interpretation certification will be viewed favorably. This certification indicates that the candidate has undergone specialized training in interpretation, which is beneficial for providing high-quality services to LEP individuals.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Interpreter position includes relevant professional interpretation experience, which is preferred. Candidates who have experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations will be given priority, as this background is essential for understanding the unique challenges faced by these communities. Experience in diverse settings, such as healthcare, education, and community services, will also be advantageous.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in English, both spoken and written. Additionally, spoken proficiency in Ukrainian is required, as this is critical for effectively serving the LEP individuals who speak this language. While not mandatory, proficiency in other languages may be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the interpreter's ability to serve a broader range of clients.

Additional Notes:
Additional notes regarding the Interpreter position include:

• The working environment is a combination of standard office settings, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area, which may require travel to various appointment locations.
• The position may require occasional weekend and/or evening work to accommodate the needs of clients and service providers.
• The compensation for this role is set at a pay range of $20 per hour, which applies to US-based candidates. This pay range is influenced by various factors, including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations.
• The IRC is 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.
• The organization offers a comprehensive 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.