Sign Language Interpreter

Northwestern Illinois Association; Crystal Lake (IL); On-site; USD 37,000 - 71,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Pension plan (IMRF)

403(b) and 457 plans

Job summary

Northwestern Illinois Association is seeking a dedicated Sign Language Interpreter to support deaf and hard-of-hearing students across 68 districts. The role provides interpretation and transliteration in both general and special education settings, ensuring equal access to the curriculum.

The position emphasizes collaboration with educators, ongoing professional development, and adherence to ethical standards. It offers comprehensive benefits and a values-driven culture in Illinois.

Qualifications

• Must meet Illinois State Board of Education requirements for Educational Sign Language Interpreter Approval.
• Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment, including computers and Microsoft Office/Google Suite.

Responsibilities

• Provide sign language interpretation to facilitate communication among deaf and hard-of-hearing students, teachers, and staff.
• Assist in educational instruction by interpreting lessons, discussions, and group activities.
• Collaborate with teachers, special education coordinators, and other school staff to adapt instructional materials.
• Promote inclusive learning environments and encourage student participation.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interpreted communications.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to stay current in sign language interpretation and school-based supports.

Skills

Sign language interpretation

Educational technology literacy

Office software proficiency

Education

ISBE Educational Sign Language Interpreter Approval

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Job description

Job Description

Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency dedicated to providing special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture.We are unable to sponsor workvisas(H-1B, J-1, etc) or transfer sponsorship. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S without sponsorship now or in the future.

This postion For the the 2026-2027 School. TheSign Language Interpreterworks 177 days per year for 7 hours per day and earns$30.20- $57.44per hour, depending on experience.

A Sign Language Interpreter in a K-12 school setting facilitates communication between deaf and hard-of-hearing students and others by interpreting and transliterating spoken material in both general and special education environments.

Provide sign language interpretation: Facilitate communication between students who are deaf or hard of hearing and others within the school environment, including teachers, peers, and staff.

• Assist in educational instruction: Support classroom activities by interpreting lessons, discussions, and group interactions, ensuring equal access to the curriculum for students who use sign language.


• Collaborate with staff and specialists: Work closely with teachers, special education coordinators, and other school staff to adapt instructional materials and ensure student needs are met.


• Promote inclusive learning environments: Help create an environment that encourages participation from students who are deaf or hard of hearing, fostering an inclusive classroom culture.


• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism: Ensure that all interpreted communication adheres to ethical standards of confidentiality, respecting the privacy of students and staff.


• Engage in ongoing professional development: Participate in workshops and training sessions to stay updated on advances in sign language interpretation and educational support.

Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance: Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.

Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: As a local governmental agency, NIA employees who are eligible participate in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement.Learn more about IMRFat(https://www.imrf.org/

Additional Retirement Savings Options: NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.

Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.

Telemedicine: Access to 1800 MD telemedicine services at no cost.

Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.

Summers Off with Year-Round Pay

Expert Feedback and Evaluation: Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise

Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials

Ongoing Professional Development: Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services

Collaborative Environment: Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues

Regular 1:1 Check-Ins: Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings

Mission-Driven: We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day.

Leadership in Education: Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.

Innovation: We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.

Employee-Focused: We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.

Quality of Life: Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and easy access to Chicago.

Job Requirements

Must meet Illinois State Board of Education requirements for Educational Sign Language Interpreter Approval

Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment, including computers and specialized software applications like Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

We are unable to sponsor workvisas(H-1B, J-1, etc) or transfer sponsorship. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S without sponsorship now or in the future.