Career Information for American Sign Language Interpreting
Developing a career as a sign language interpreter creates job opportunities with local government, campuses, corporations and individuals. Whether you use your knowledge and experience to tutor children, teach community sign language classes or translate for students or businesses, a working knowledge of American Sign Language translates into an excellent career choice.
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Education
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Positions for American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters often require a bachelor's degree, though the concentration for that degree can vary. Often a degree in education or within the field in which you wish to work (political science or engineering, for example) is acceptable, with further training and certification through the American Translators Association. Government jobs or careers with highly-respected clients may expect further education either overall or within those fields.
Certification
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Certification exists through the American Translators Association (ATA) and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) and includes requirements of contact hours, National Interpreter Certification, written and performance evaluations and interviews.
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Training
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Training for a role as an interpreter can begin with coursework or community classes while in college. It continues through RID and ATA and includes preparations for the testing and certification processes. Specific careers, especially within the legal and medical fields, often require more job-specific training to become familiar with the jargon.
Finding Employment
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The ATA website features a "job bank" for both employers and job seekers, as well as articles and resources for becoming a freelance translator. RID and the ATA both offer conferences and seminars that include information on building a career and reputation. Membership with the RID and ATA also offers benefits through networking and leadership opportunities.
Earnings
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Wage and salary interpreters and translators had median hourly wages of $38,850 in May 2008." Wages vary depending on geographical location and the specific field in which the interpreter seeks employment. Certifications and advanced education can lead to higher wages for both salaried and freelance interpreters.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Sign Language image by sonya etchison from Fotolia.com
