Job Summary

Under the general supervision of the assigned administrator, the Sign Language Interpreter facilitates communication between deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) students, teachers, staff, and peers. This role involves interpreting spoken and written English into sign language and vice versa in a variety of educational settings, including classrooms, school events, and meetings. The interpreter supports student learning and engagement while ensuring access to the full educational experience.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The position of educational sign language interpreter is to provide student focused facilitation between the assigned student/s and the school staff and students for the purpose of learning. The position can be a variety of settings and work across a variety of ages depending on the assignment.

Essential Duties:

Duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Provide interpretation services to facilitate communication between DHH students, peers, instructors, and staff.
• Interpret classroom instruction, discussions, school events, meetings, and assemblies.
• Tutor, support, and adapt instructional materials for DHH students in various subjects under the direction of the teacher.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with students, staff, and school community.
• Assist in implementing behavior and support plans as part of a collaborative team.
• Convey auditory environmental cues (e.g., bells, alarms, computer signals) to DHH students.
• Participate in staff development and professional training opportunities including those required to maintain interpreter certification.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and services provided.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Employment Standards:

Knowledge of:

• American Sign Language (ASL) and other communication methods used by DHH individuals.
• Interpretation techniques, including sign-to-voice and voice-to-sign translation.
• The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct.
• Child development, behavior characteristics, and best practices for supporting DHH students.
• Classroom procedures, instructional strategies, and educational goals.
• Positive behavior management techniques.
• Appropriate operation of assistive technology and communication devices.

Ability to:

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, staff, and families.
• Interpret and transliterate fluently between spoken/written English and sign language.
• Maintain confidentiality in all student-related matters.
• Communicate effectively in both spoken and written English.
• Support students in various settings, including vocational training, recreational activities, and field trips.
• Follow safe lifting procedures and assist students in specialized equipment as needed.
• Operate office equipment, including computers and communication devices.
• Adapt to changes in assignments, student needs, and school locations.
• Work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage stress effectively.
• Maintain physical agility and stamina to support student activities.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Certification with a Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) score of 4.0 or above.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience working with individuals who are DHH in an educational setting.

Working Conditions (Work Environment)

With or without accommodation, this position includes the following physical demands:

• Ability to read, see, and distinguish colors on screens, books, and other materials with or without visual aids.
• Hearing and speaking clearly for communication.
• Dexterity to operate a computer and other equipment.
• Physical ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, bend, twist, lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to move quickly on various terrains, including playgrounds and school grounds.

Other Requirements

• Must be fingerprinted and a satisfactory Department of Justice records check must be received by HCOE prior to employment.
• TB testing and/or risk assessment will be required upon employment.
• Must pass a pre-employment physical (if applicable).
• May be required to obtain first aid and CPR certificates within the first 6 to 12 months of employment.
• May be required to drive with or without students; some positions may require a California driver’s license, proof of insurance and possible participation in the DMV Pull Notice Program once employed.

Range 18 | Updated 3/17/2025