DETAILED SUMMARY:

The Translator/Interpreter for the ELAFS program supports clear communication among children, families, and staff by providing accurate spoken and written translations across classrooms, homes, and offices throughout Whatcom County. This role includes both consecutive and simultaneous interpretation during meetings and events, translation of educational materials and communications, and ensuring that all content is culturally sensitive and true to the original meaning. The Translator/Interpreter maintains knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards, ECEAP standards, and agency policies to provide contextually appropriate services. Success in this position requires strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, confidentiality, professionalism, and the ability to collaborate effectively while traveling between multiple program locations.
OC Interpreters and translators work on an on-call, at-will basis. Successful candidates must also be flexible and available to work during afternoon and evening hours.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, AND HIRING REQUIREMENTS:

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Cultural competence desired, with native speaking interpreters preferred.
3. Fluency or advanced knowledge in reading, writing, and speaking specified foreign language.
4. Experience working in a family-centered agency or similar work setting preferred.
5. May be required to obtain certification in medical interpretation and/or as a community services interpreter within a specified timeframe after hiring.
6. Prior experience in early childhood education or family services is beneficial.
7. Familiarity with cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions in both English and the target language
8. Valid Washington State driver’s license and five-year driving history within Opportunity Council’s Auto Insurance Standards.
9. Must have health examination indicating you are fit for duty and free from communicable disease within 60 days of hire. Medical check ups are required every two years thereafter.
10. Must have TB test and submit test results prior to hire date.
11. Must submit to a criminal record check to ascertain that the applicant has not been convicted of a child abuse or neglect offense per Washington State Child Abuse Law (Ch. 486, Laws of 1987) or DSHS licensing requirements.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

1. Must be able to follow and carry out instructions with little supervision.
2. Ability to work well as a team member, and independently.
3. Ability to prioritize tasks appropriately, manage time efficiently, and seek guidance when necessary.
4. Demonstrated ability to relate in a supportive, non-judgmental manner to families of varying cultural, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.
5. Ability to relate to others positively.
6. Innovation skills; may occasionally be involved in projects that require new ideas or approaches; position is responsible for developing modifications to established procedures.
7. Ability to interpret and/or discuss information with others which involves terminology or concepts not familiar to many people; occasionally provide advice and recommend action involving less complex issues.
8. Proficient in the use of computers and related information technologies for agency communications and record keeping requirements.
9. Must be able to adapt interpersonal skills in response to individual styles, personalities and cultures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Serves as a linguistic and cultural liaison between families and the ELAFS program and staff, facilitating effective two-way communication.
2. Interprets during group parent meetings and activities, ensuring all participants understand and can contribute.
3. Provides interpretation in various settings and modes—including consecutive, simultaneous, and sight translation—to support communication needs.
4. Facilitates communication during classroom observations, home visits, screenings, and assessments with children, staff, and parents.
5. Adheres to the National Code of Ethics for Interpreters in Health Care, ensuring all communications are accurate, ethical, and respectful.
6. Translates a wide range of documents—such as letters, reports, forms, educational materials, and program communications—ensuring accuracy, clarity, cultural appropriateness, and timely delivery.
7. Edits and proofreads translated materials for grammar, style, consistency, and fidelity to the original message, making revisions as needed to ensure high quality.
8. Adapts written content to match the reading level and cultural context of the target audience, ensuring accessibility and comprehension.
9. Maintains confidentiality and integrity of all interpreted and translated information and records, in accordance with professional standards.
10. Demonstrates cultural sensitivity and accurately conveys cultural nuances in all verbal and written communications.
11. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of specialized educational, medical, and program-specific terminology in both languages to ensure precise communication.
12. Assists parents with paperwork related to recruitment, enrollment, and home visits as needed throughout the year, providing language support and clarification.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Attends at least two trainings each year.
2. Performs other related duties as assigned.
3. Participates in professional development activities to enhance language skills and stay current with interpretation and translation techniques.
4. Provides occasional guidance to work team regarding daily issues, and some short-term planning, which enables others to take action or make decisions.