Health and Independence American Sign Language Interpreter

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Brief Job Description:
Under the supervision of the Health and Independence Program and Policy Director, serves as the primary interpreter for Health and Independence. Performs highly advanced (senior-level) interpreter work. This position will serve both as an interpreter and as the coordinator for interpreting services within Health and Independence and must work effectively in teams with both Deaf/hard of hearing clients/staff. Additional duties include conducting staff services functions such as coordinating external services, reconciling invoices, and providing support on accessibility functions.

The position may occasionally require flexible hours and the ability to travel to meet the needs of the staff including nights and/or weekends as required. Must be able to respond and adapt to changing assignments in a prescribed time frame. Supports interpreter needs for the division upon request when schedule allows.

Works under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Interprets and translates messages simultaneously or consecutively between English and American Sign Language, either orally or visually, while maintaining message content, context, and style. Assesses whether communication is being understood. Interprets during meetings, training presentations, interviews, conferences, staff development activities, etc. Serves as the primary interpreter for all requests within Health and Independence, with limited exceptions. Develops and implements programs. Travel to assignments and maintain flexibility with schedule when assignments occur outside the office. Represents the agency at business meetings, hearings, trials, and conferences. (40%)

Coordinates and schedules services for interpreting services, Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) services, and other accessibility services as needed for Health and Independence staff when interpreting services are requested. Ensures that interpreter services invoices are received and paid in a timely manner. Work with budget team on monthly budget reconciliation to ensure that the interpreting services requested and invoiced were delivered. (30%)

Plans and coordinates special and administrative assignments and programs. Serve as a resource and provide educational materials and training to staff regarding communication access for Deaf/hard of hearing individuals. Develops policies and procedures to manage interpreter scheduling, as required. Records videos, voiceovers, and embedded interpretations. Performs technical program assistance work. Travels to assignments in a prescribed time frame when needed. (20%)

Perform other duties as assigned including but not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or locations. Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. (10%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of all supporting the deaf community served within Health and Independence, including Deaf, DeafBlind and hard of hearing.

Knowledge and understanding of Deaf and DeafBlind practices and the issues relevant to persons with hearing loss.

Knowledge and understanding of the interpreter’s role with Deaf members and with other staff, both hearing and Deaf.

Ability to multitask, manage and organize projects, and assist with outreach projects. 

Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Ability to adapt to the interpreting needs of a wide range of supported individuals (e.g. ASL fluent, PSE, English.) 

Ability to work with other interpreters in a team setting, including Deaf Interpreters and Protactile interpreters.

Ability to prioritize and plan work activities, use time efficiently, and develop realistic action plans.

Ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner. 

Ability to gather and analyze information skillfully.

Ability to appropriately communicate with colleagues, clients, supervisors, stakeholders, and the public.

Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Ability to maintain confidentiality, remain open to others’ ideas, and shows willingness to try new approaches in providing accessibility services.

Skill in expressing ideas clearly and concisely through sign language, orally, and in writing.

Skill in Microsoft Office software to include Word, Excel, Outlook.

Skill in working with virtual platforms such as Microsoft Teams, GoToWebinar, etc.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: 

BEI level III, IV, V, Advanced or Master certification from the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, Board of Evaluation of Interpreters or equivalent.

Maintains certification by completing continuing education units.

Initial Screening Criteria:

•    Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent.
•    Four years interpreting experience with deaf individuals in any of the following or related areas: platform, business, technical, classroom, sign-to-voice, medical, counseling.

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Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework.  Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.