Sign Language Interpreter

$38,000 - $49,000/Yr

Northwest Area Education Agency (Aea) - Sioux City, IA

Full-time - Entry Level

Onsite - Sioux City, IA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Sign Language Interpreter position at Northwest Area Education Agency is a vital role that focuses on facilitating communication between spoken English and American Sign Language (ASL) or other signed or visual systems. This position is essential for ensuring that students who are deaf or hard of hearing have equal access to educational opportunities and can fully participate in classroom activities and school-sponsored events. The interpreter will work closely with students, teachers, and other educational staff to provide effective communication support as outlined in each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Responsibilities

• Interpret as delineated by the student's IEP, using the district's communication policy as a guide, including lectures, announcements, discussions, assemblies, etc.
• Interpret for school-sponsored functions outside of the classroom during regularly scheduled school hours.
• Serve as a multidisciplinary team member at IEP meetings.
• Assist with classroom modifications when appropriate, as determined by the IEP, educational team, or in consultation with other direct service personnel.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student information and communication.
• Seek professional development opportunities and attend district-sponsored professional development opportunities as appropriate.
• Serve as a liaison to promote rapport between general education and deaf education classrooms, students, the school, and the deaf community.
• Review text, lesson plans, etc. in preparation for the day.
• Provide sign language instruction in all instructional settings as requested.
• Provide in-service training to new teachers regarding interpreter roles and responsibilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and spoken English.
• Experience interpreting in educational settings, particularly with students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Knowledge of IEP processes and educational modifications for students with disabilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with students, teachers, and parents.

Nice-to-haves

• Certification as a Sign Language Interpreter from a recognized body.
• Experience working with diverse student populations.
• Familiarity with educational technology and tools used in classrooms.

Benefits

• Professional development opportunities provided by the district.
• Supportive work environment with a focus on student success.