INTERPRETER

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 57,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arkansas Department of Education seeks an Interpreter to provide essential language services, ensuring clear communication between state agencies and individuals who are Deaf/DeafBlind/Hard of Hearing within the context of the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind.

The role emphasizes accurate, confidential interpretation during meetings and events, with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity across educational and governmental services.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years interpreting experience.
• Must hold or be eligible for licensure as an ASL Interpreter.
• Certifications from RID/BEI/EIPA or state body may be required where applicable.

Responsibilities

• Provide real-time interpretation between English and American Sign Language during meetings, interviews, and public events.
• Ensure meaning, tone and context are accurately conveyed; maintain confidentiality.
• Utilize interpretation technology, including remote platforms and other equipment.
• Assist in preparing reports and documentation related to interpretation assignments and outcomes.

Skills

Bilingual English/ASL

Consecutive & simultaneous

Remote interpretation tech

Terminology research

Tools

Remote interpretation platforms

Video relay services devices

Job description

Position Number: 22082453
County: Pulaski
ADE
Join the Arkansas Department of Education where each student is recognized as an individual. Through a cultivation of world-class educators, partnering with communities, and an influx of social supports, Arkansas Department of Education provides multi-level supports that help ensure students will receive a personalized education and develop a life-long love of learning.

Position Information

Job Series: Public Relations - Independent
Classification: Interpreter
Class Code: CPR04I
Pay Grade: SGS07
Salary Range: $57,351 - $84,879

Job Summary

The Interpreter provides essential language services to ensure clear and effective communication between state agencies or their representatives and individuals who are Deaf/DeafBlind/Hard of Hearing. In this role, you will deliver accurate, confidential, and culturally sensitive interpretation during meetings, interviews, public hearings, and other state or education-related events. The Interpreter plays a crucial part in facilitating access to educational and governmental services by bridging language barriers and promoting inclusivity at the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind.

Primary Responsibilities

Provide real-time interpretation between English and American Sign Language during meetings, educational activities, interviews, and other official events as determined by the interpreter coordinator at the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind. Ensure that the meaning, tone, and context of messages are accurately conveyed between parties. Assist in translating documents or verbal summaries when required, ensuring consistency and clarity. Maintain strict confidentiality regarding sensitive or personal information obtained during interpretation. Adhere to state and federal regulations related to language access and interpretation services. Engage in continuous improvement and training to ensure the highest standards of professional interpretation are met. Utilize interpretation technology, including remote platforms, audio/video conferencing tools, and other relevant equipment. Research and familiarize yourself with specialized terminology in various fields such as legal, healthcare, and K-12 education. Assist in preparing reports and documentation related to interpretation assignments and service outcomes.

Knowledge And Skills

Bilingual or Multilingual Proficiency: Demonstrated fluency in English and American Sign Language. Mastery of consecutive and simultaneous interpretation methods in diverse settings. Ability to operate and troubleshoot remote interpretation platforms and communication equipment. Familiarity with specialized vocabulary relevant to legal, healthcare, social services, and governmental contexts. Understanding of state and federal requirements regarding language access in public services. Strong focus and attention to detail to ensure accurate interpretation, even in high-pressure environments. Capability to quickly address and resolve communication issues that may arise during interpretation sessions.

Minimum Qualifications

At least 2 years of professional interpreting experience, preferably within a governmental or public service context.

Licensure/Certifications

Must hold or be eligible for licensure as an American Sign Language Interpreter as recognized by the State of Arkansas. Professional certification from an accredited interpreter certification organization (e.g., Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), Board of Evaluation for Interpreters (BEI), Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA), or another state-recognized body) is required, as applicable to the role. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.