Senior Foreign Language Interpreter

Posting number: 2026-00866

Department: DSS Administration

Job classification: Senior Foreign Language Interpreter

Posting type: Open

Categories: Clerical & Data Entry, Community Services, Social Services, Miscellaneous, Customer Service, Community and Social Services, Office and Administrative Support, Translation

Summary

Performs comprehensive support and interpretive services for clients experiencing language barriers and related work as apparent or assigned. Completes, maintains and submits appropriate documentation of client contacts and language support services provided. Works on special projects and/or translation activities to translate forms, educational materials, flyers, posters, etc.   Assists with general clerical support services. Work is performed under the limited supervision of assigned supervisor.

Examples of duties

• Uses knowledge of foreign language to communicate with non-English speakers.
• Assists with admission history, interval history reviews, medical evaluations, prescription instructions, education information; schedules appointments and follow-ups, obtains personal information and provides instructions; assists with communication during appointments; coordinates outside appointments.
• Completes, maintains, and submits appropriate documentation of client contacts and language support services provided to program worker or supervisor.
• Translates printed materials as needed.
• Acts as a resource for the agency in all aspects of interpretation and collaborates with the Dare County interpreter to assure coverage for Divisions interpretation needs.
• Assists with reception duties at the front office area:  Greets visitors at the front desk, determines their business needs and refers to the appropriate staff. Answers incoming calls: handles call and directs to appropriate staff. 
• Actively participates in the staff meetings to address the coordination of services, shared issues, concerns, and barriers for the limited English proficiency (LEP) clients and community.
• Makes home visits, telephone and other contacts as requested by workers to provide comprehensive language support services.
• Assists with intake/enrollment of clients into programs by providing interpretation services for eligibility staff and services staff.
• Provides interpretation services for clients by assisting them at their registration, history, evaluation, education, scheduling, application, recertification, general service intake.
• Interprets for clients in eligibility and enrollment process for applications, recertifications and case maintenance.
• DHHS Social Services Specific: 
  1. Review policy and technical knowledge relating to public assistance programs.
  2. Complete searches in NC Fast to verify eligibility and complete demographic information changes within the system.
  3. Explains program requirements and options, the ability to advise or refer individuals seeking assistance to other programs or services available.
• Performs other assigned duties.

Qualifications

• Strong language skills in the English and Spanish languages, and the ability to translate fluently between the two, both verbally and in writing.  
• Thorough knowledge of the functions of community health/social service agencies; thorough knowledge of methods and techniques used in preparing and disseminating educational information and programs. 
• Thorough knowledge of techniques involved in preparing graphic materials, exhibits and visual aids. 
• Ability to present ideas effectively both orally and in writing. 
• Ability to solve problems within scope of responsibility. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, educational and community organizations and associates.

Supplemental information

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in related field or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
• Foreign language interpreter training within one year of hire.
• Valid driver’s license.