Receptionist/Interpreter

Wayne County Public Schools; United States; On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Wayne County Public Schools’ Carver Elementary seeks a Receptionist/Secretary to support front-office operations, handle data entry, and maintain student records with confidentiality under FERPA. The role requires clear communication, computer skills, and the ability to assist with bilingual interpretation for families.

Duties include greeting visitors, managing sign-in/out, directing inquiries, and coordinating with the principal and school staff.

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficiency with office software and basic computer operations.

Responsibilities

• Front-Office Reception: Greet visitors, answer phone calls, manage sign-in/out, route inquiries to staff.
• Bilingual Interpretation: Provide real-time interpretation for non-English speaking parents during meetings and events.
• Document Translation: Translate official school documents into the target language.
• Student & Family Support: Assist with registration, enrollment, and explain policies and resources.
• Administrative Assistance: Maintain student records, log attendance, distribute mail, and help with supplies.
• Emergency Coordination: Support drills or emergencies with clear instructions for non-English speakers.

Skills

Clear communication

Written communication

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Independence

Fast-paced environment

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Certified interpreter credential or proficiency exam

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

PowerSchool / Infinite Campus

Job description

Receptionist/Secretary

Wayne County Public Schools

Job Description

Location

Carver Elementary

Reports To:

Principal

Job Goal:

Assist with record keeping, data entry, clerical/secretarial support along with operating standard office/media equipment.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Follow all rules, policies and procedures, along with state and federal regulations pertaining to school issues.
• Exhibit stellar customer service, responsiveness, and a helpful and friendly demeanor in all interactions with stakeholders. This includes by phone, email, in-person, and all other forms of contact.
• Compile data from a large variety of established sources.
• Review incoming correspondence to be informed of the supervisor's needs and activities, to delegate or bring to supervisor's attention.
• Set and maintain files/records for a moderate number of subjects.
• Record a wide range of information requiring some computation.
• Operate a computer, selecting procedures and items to code and record.
• Compose a narrative using basic knowledge of word processing.
• Follow prescribed procedures for material orders and supplies.
• File and retrieve information/materials from an alphabetical, chronological or numerical filing system
• Answer incoming phone lines and establish the needs of callers in order to refer them to the appropriate staff person for service.
• Operate a variety of office/school equipment.
• Strive to maintain and improve professional competence. Participate in development and support of the broad school vision.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as requested by the Principal.

Terms of Employment:

Ten-month work year/At-Will/FLSA Non Exempt

Starting Salary and/or Grade:

NC State Salary Schedule

Evaluation:

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board and local policy on evaluation of personnel.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; ability to communicate with school personnel, parents, and central office staff while complying with the confidentiality requirements in local, state, and federal policies and statutes.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.
• Knowledge of basic computer operations.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to manage tasks independently in a fast paced work environment.
• Ability to meet established deadlines.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be physically able to operate a variety of equipment including computers, copiers, etc.
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull or otherwise move objects including the human body. Able to exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally.
• Light Work usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree.
• Frequently required to stand , walk, and sit for extended periods of time.

DISCLAIMER:

• The statements of the job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by an employee in this category. The description does not contain an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills and other requirements necessary of employees to perform in this position.

Core Responsibilities

Front-Office Reception:

Greet visitors, answer phone calls, manage school sign-in/sign-out procedures, and route inquiries to the appropriate staff members.

Bilingual Interpretation:

Provide real-time verbal interpretation for non-English speaking parents during parent-teacher conferences, enrollment meetings, disciplinary hearings, and IEP (Individualized Education Program) evaluations.

Document Translation:

Translate official school documents, newsletters, permission slips, report cards, and emergency notifications into the target language.

Student & Family Support:

Assist families with the school registration and enrollment process, explaining school policies, attendance requirements, and district resources.

Administrative Assistance:

Maintain student records, log daily attendance, distribute mail, sort school supplies, and assist with health room needs if necessary.

Emergency Coordination:

Act as a critical communication link during school drills or active emergencies, ensuring non-English speaking visitors and families receive clear instructions.

Job Qualifications & Requirements

Education:

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Language Proficiency:

Native or near-native fluency (both verbal and written) in English and the designated secondary language (e.g., Spanish, Arabic, Vietnamese).

Certifications:

Many school districts require or prefer a certified medical/community interpreter credential or passing a district-administered language proficiency exam.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency with office software (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace) and school student information systems (SIS) like PowerSchool or Infinite Campus.

Soft Skills:

Exceptional patience, empathy, intercultural communication skills, and a welcoming demeanor suitable for an elementary school environment.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Setting:

A high-energy, fast-paced school front office with frequent interruptions from young students, staff, and parents.

Confidentiality:

Strict adherence to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regarding student records and sensitive family situations.