On-site Interpreter

The interpreter’s primary responsibility is to accurately convey spoken messages between English speakers and individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP), ensuring that meaning, tone, and intent are preserved. The interpreter must maintain a high level of confidentiality, neutrality, and professionalism, and adhere to the ethical standards of the interpreting profession commanded by Acutrans. This role plays a critical part in helping individuals access services, understand complex information, and participate fully in conversations where language would otherwise be a barrier. 

Responsibilities

• Interpret spoken communication accurately and completely between English and the target language, preserving tone, register, and intent. 
• Facilitate communication between clients and service providers in medical, legal, educational, and business settings. 
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with all privacy laws, including HIPAA when applicable. 
• Remain impartial and neutral, avoiding personal opinions or involvement in interaction. 
• Adapt language and terminology to fit the context of the appointment (e.g., medical, legal, educational). 
• Prepare for assignments by researching relevant terminology or reviewing appointment details when available. 
• Clarify ambiguities only when necessary and always within the boundaries of professional interpreting standards. 
• Report promptly to scheduled assignments and manage time effectively. 
• Stay informed and trained in current best practices, ethics, and developments in the interpreting field. 
• Use interpretation equipment and technology effectively when providing remote or video-based services. 
• Communicate professionally with agency staff, clients, and service providers to ensure service quality. 

Qualifications

• 40-hour (or more) professional interpreter training certificate from a recognized program. 
• Minimum of 1 year of experience providing spoken language interpretation in professional settings (medical, legal, educational, or business preferred). 
• Fluency in English and at least one additional spoken language, with strong command of grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuance in both languages. 
• Proficient with technology, including the use of smartphones, computers, remote interpreting platforms (e.g., Zoom, VRI/OPI tools), and secure communication apps. 
• Legally authorized to work in the United States (U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or valid work authorization). 
• Reside in the Chicago to cover appointments in Melrose Park, Berwyn, Burr Ridge, and Maywood.
• Able to pass a clear criminal background check. 
• Excellent listening, memory retention, and communication skills. 
• Professional appearance and demeanor, with the ability to work independently and manage confidential information responsibly. 
• Willingness to adhere to interpreter codes of ethics, including confidentiality, accuracy, and neutrality. 
• Reliable transportation and/or stable internet connection depending on the modality of interpreting (on-site or remote).