American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter/Coordinator 2024-02594

State of Wyoming; Casper (WY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Wyoming seeks an ASL Interpreter/Interpreter Coordinator to enhance accessibility for Deaf citizens. This role involves providing interpretation services, coordinating contracts, developing policies, and advocating for inclusivity. Ideal candidates will possess a Bachelor's degree and experience in Deaf services. Join a dedicated team focused on making a positive impact in the community.

Benefits

Comprehensive healthcare coverage

Generous pension plan

Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness eligibility

Flexible schedule arrangements

Paid time off

Qualifications

• Experience providing interpretive services virtually using videoconferencing tools.
• Four years of paid experience as an interpreter for the Deaf.
• Proven experience in policy development and advocacy.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality ASL interpretation services during various events.
• Coordinate interpreter schedules and assignments.
• Conduct outreach and training on ASL interpretation and accessibility.

Skills

Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL)

Excellent communication skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Mentorship abilities

Education

Bachelor's Degree (typically in Education or related field)

Certification recognized by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)

Job description

Open Until Filled

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Are you driven by a passion for creating connections and empowering communities? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where your mentoring and expertise can truly shine? If you’re excited about using communication to bridge gaps and elevate inclusivity, we invite you to consider a role that directly impacts the lives of Wyoming’s Deaf citizens and the state agencies that support them.

We are seeking a committed American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter/Interpreter Coordinator to join our team and play a pivotal role in strengthening accessibility across Wyoming. As our ASL Interpreter/Coordinator, you’ll perform professional sign language interpretation and transliteration for state agency staff and the Deaf, Blind, or hard-of-hearing citizens they serve. From in-person meetings and virtual sessions to conferences and training, your role will make a direct impact, every day.

Beyond interpretation, you’ll also take the lead in coordinating contract interpreter services, developing essential policies, and driving education and outreach efforts. Your work will include gathering and analyzing data on interpreter service demand and utilization, helping shape the future of interpreting services in Wyoming, and addressing critical gaps in accessibility.

If you're ready to make a difference and join a team that values dedication and expertise, apply today - and be a voice for positive change in Wyoming's Deaf community.

Why Work for the State of Wyoming?

Working for the state of Wyoming offers a range of valuable benefits, job security, a supportive work environment, and a fulfilling career path. The Department of Workforce Services is committed to investing in employee development, offering professional development and continuing education opportunities. Employees enjoy comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, ensuring their well-being and that of their families. The state also offers a generous pension, providing financial security and stability for employees upon retirement. Additionally, Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness eligibility is provided. The state recognizes the importance of personal time, offering generous paid time off and flexible schedule arrangements for a healthy work-life balance.

Casper, Wyoming, offers iconic landscapes, a rich history, amazing food, and endless activities. Discover why some things can’t be explained, only experienced—that’s WY! Learn more atNatrona County. Plus, Wyoming is one of seven states with no income tax.

Employee Testimonials

Our current employees love working for DWS for many reasons:

• Helping Others: "I enjoy getting up each morning knowing that even if the work day is difficult, my co-workers and supervisor are supportive and encouraging."
• Supportive Culture: "The friendly atmosphere that lives around us and the sense of team working towards the same goal."
• Meaningful Work: "Being part of an agency that can make a change in people's livelihoods and feeling that what I do matters to society."
• Team Collaboration: "The team I currently work with is amazing. We truly work as a team."
• Service to the Public: "The people that I work with and providing a service to the public and helping others."
• Autonomy and Support: "The fact I can work somewhat autonomously but have immediate access to help if and when I need it."
• Mission-Driven: "The mission of the Agency and how we are so important to the health of the State."

Human Resource Contact: 307-473-3270

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.

• Provide high-quality ASL interpretation/transliteration services during meetings, hearings, presentations, and events as needed.
• Identify, recruit, and support contract interpreters.
• Coordinate interpreter schedules and assignments.
• Serve as a resource and advocate for accessibility issues within the organization.
• Provide mentorship and coaching to freelance contract interpreters, offering constructive feedback and guidance on interpreting skills and professional development.
• Conduct outreach activities, workshops, and training sessions on finding and using ASL interpreters, communication basics, Deaf culture, ASL interpretation techniques, ethics, and best practices.
• Analyze data on interpreter service demand, utilization, gaps in services, barriers, and industry trends.
• Generate reports and recommendations based on data analysis to optimize interpreter services.
• In collaboration with stakeholders, develop and implement policies and procedures related to ASL interpretation services, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and best practices.
• Engage in advocacy efforts to promote awareness and understanding of Deaf culture, ASL, and the role and use of professional sign language interpreters.

PREFERENCES:

Experience providing interpretive services virtually using a variety of videoconferencing equipment, software, applications, and platforms
Bachelor’s Degree (typically in interpretation, American Sign Language/English, Deaf Studies, rehabilitation, government or public administration, education, social work, or related field)
Four years of paid experience as an interpreter for the Deaf
Valid and Current certification(s) recognized by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)

KNOWLEDGE:

• Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL), including strong signing and voicing skills.

• Highly proficient in spoken and written English

• Thorough understanding of deaf culture.

• Comprehensive understanding of the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct.

• Knowledge and skills to interpret in various settings, which may include but are not limited to rehabilitation, mental health, business meetings, legislative meetings, conferences/training, community events, medical appointments, and legal proceedings.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a high level of professionalism, impartiality, and confidentiality.

• Proven experience as a mentor or trainer in the field of ASL interpretation.

• Demonstrated ability in policy development, implementation, advocacy, and collaboration.

• Knowledge of federal and state laws that affect the provision of sign language interpreting services.

• Skill in analyzing communication modes as used by sign language users.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:
Bachelor's Degree (typically in Education)

Experience:
0-1 year of progressive work experience (typically in Education or Instruction)

OR

Education & ExperienceSubstitution:
3-4 years of progressive work experience (typically in Education or Instruction)

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
None

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Statewide travel is required for this position, and some travel may require overnight stays
• Some early morning, evening, weekend, and holiday work may be required
• The employee may occasionally be exposed to outside weather conditions while performing the duties of the job
• Requires intense concentration and physical endurance when signing
• Extended periods of standing or sitting and extended periods of repetitive hand movement
• Requires the ability to speak clearly
• Requires the ability to hear well enough to understand speech in most situations

NOTES:

• FLSA: Non-Exempt

• The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS) uses E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities

• Offers of employment will be contingent upon the successful completion of a background check

• Full-time, 40 hours per week position
  

Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.

URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.

Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.