Job Title: Interpreter and Translator for Special Education
Shift: Part-Time, up to 17.5 hours weekly
Funding Source: Grant-funded
Hourly Rate: $30 per hour
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and qualified Interpreter and Translator to join our team, specializing in translating Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). As an essential member of our education support services, you will play a crucial role in facilitating effective communication between educators, parents, and students with diverse linguistic backgrounds. The ideal candidate will have proficiency in the Spanish language, excellent translation skills, and a deep understanding of the educational landscape, especially in the context of Special Education and IEPs.
Responsibilities:
- Translation of IEP Documents:
- Translate Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) from English to the target language with accuracy and cultural sensitivity.
- Ensure that the translated documents maintain the original meaning, tone, and intent of the IEPs.
- Interpretation Services:
- Provide real-time interpretation services during IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and other relevant school events.
- Facilitate effective communication between educators, parents, and students to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the IEP content.
- Cultural Competence:
- Demonstrate cultural competence and understanding of the unique needs of students and families from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
- Help bridge the cultural gap by providing insights into cultural nuances that may impact the interpretation and translation process.
- Collaboration:
- Collaborate with educators, Special Education teams, and administrative staff to gather context and background information necessary for accurate translation.
- Work closely with the school community to ensure a seamless and inclusive communication process.
- Documentation and Record-Keeping:
- Maintain accurate records of translated IEPs and other relevant documents.
- Ensure confidentiality and privacy of sensitive information in accordance with legal and ethical standards.
Qualifications:
- Language Proficiency:
- Proficiency in English and Spanish.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both languages.
- Educational Background:
- Bachelor's degree in Translation, Interpretation, Linguistics, Education, or a related field
- OR a Bachelor's degree and an Interpretation/Translation Certificate from an accredited institution.
- Experience:
- Proven experience in translating educational documents, particularly IEPs.
- Prior experience in interpretation services within an educational setting is preferred.
- Cultural Sensitivity:
- Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and understanding of the diverse needs of students and families.
- Professionalism:
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to maintain a professional and neutral demeanor during sensitive discussions.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Watertown Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation.