About this role
Job title: Translator/Interpreter
About the Role The Translator/Interpreter for the ELAFS program with Opportunity Council supports clear communication among children, families, and staff across Whatcom County. This on-call, part-time role involves both spoken and written translation to ensure accurate, culturally sensitive messaging in classrooms, homes, and offices.
What You'll Do
- Serve as a linguistic and cultural liaison between families and ELAFS program staff.
- Interpret during group parent meetings, activities, and various settings (consecutive, simultaneous, sight translation).
- Translate and edit a wide range of documents (letters, reports, forms, educational materials) to ensure accuracy and cultural relevance.
- Adapt content to appropriate reading levels and cultural context; maintain confidentiality and professional ethics.
- Stay current on terminology in educational, medical, and program-specific areas in both languages.
- Assist parents with paperwork related to recruitment, enrollment, and home visits as needed, including language support.
- Work on an on-call, at-will basis with flexibility for afternoon/evening hours.
What We're Looking For
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Fluency in English and proficiency in at least one preferred language (e.g., Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, Farsi, Mixteco, Vietnamese, Chinese).
- Cultural competence; experience in a family-centered agency or similar setting preferred.
- May require certification in medical interpretation and/or community services interpretation within a specified timeframe after hire.
- Prior experience in early childhood education or family services beneficial.
- Valid Washington State driver’s license and a safe driving history within the program’s standards.
- Ability to pass health examination, TB test, and criminal background check prior to hire, with ongoing requirements thereafter.
Nice to Have
- Native-speaking interpreters preferred.
- Familiarity with cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions in both English and the target language.
- Medical interpretation or community services interpreter certification is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $21-$25 per hour (USD).
- Part-time, on-call role with flexible afternoon/evening hours; work across multiple settings in Whatcom County.