Medical Interpreter

The Dane County Department of Human Services in Madison, Wisconsin, is recruiting for two full-time (1.0 FTE) Medical Interpreter positions. Candidates should be able to fluently speak, write, communicate and translate in both English and Spanish. The majority of the work will be done in person in various Dane County Department of Human Services buildings, and sometimes in the community. Some at-home work will be permitted for time to do translation or phone interpretation.

The Eligibility List created may be used to fill future Medical Interpreter vacancies over the next six (6) months.

COMMITMENT TO EQUITY & INCLUSION

As an employer, we strive to provide a work environment where diversity and differing opinions are valued, creativity is encouraged, continuous learning and improvement are fostered, teamwork and open/honest communication are encouraged, and meeting customers’ needs through quality service is a shared goal. All employees must be able to demonstrate multicultural competence - the awareness, knowledge, and skills needed to work with others who are culturally different from self in meaningful, relevant, and productive ways. Applicants from traditionally underrepresented populations including women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

DEFINITION

Under the supervision of the Communications Manager, the medical interpreter will provide interpretation and translation to individuals needing services in Dane County Department of Human Services. The interpreter must demonstrate proficiency in the languages he/she will be interpreting. Moreover, the Interpreter must possess excellent interpersonal skills and may be required to work with very sensitive issues and be clear on his/her role.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Provide interpretation and translation; determine whether the client adequately understands the information being presented; maintain confidentiality of information received; facilitate the communication process without acting as an advisor or negotiator on behalf of either party; adhere to departmental guidelines; transmit the message completely and accurately without omitting or adding information, giving consideration to linguistic variations in both language and conveying the tone and spirit of the original message; request clarification or repetition of the message whenever information is not fully understood or heard. When not interpreting, the interpreter may perform other duties as assigned including performing client outreach, providing support at community events and representing the organization in various community groups and councils, and supporting the agency in improving language access for all clients and staff.

Education, Training and Experience:

High school graduation or equivalent and the ability to fluently speak, write, communicate and translate in both English and the target language at a native or near-native level. Must have at least two years of medical interpreting and translation experience in a clinic setting.

Certifications/Licenses:

Strict preference will be given to candidates who hold a valid CCHI certification.

Special Requirements:

A valid WI driver's license and access to reliable personal transportation to travel to clinics, events and home visits throughout Dane County. Availability to work occasional evenings, weekends, and during special events.

Background Check Statement: Some positions may require a criminal background check which can include fingerprinting due to the nature of the job's responsibilities. Wisconsin's Fair Employment Law, s. 111.31 – 111.395, Wis. Stats., prohibits discrimination because of an arrest or conviction record. However, Dane County may disqualify an applicant if the position's responsibilities are substantially related to the applicant's criminal history (e.g., the nature of the crime and its relationship to the position, whether hiring, transferring or promoting an applicant would pose an unreasonable risk to the business, its employees, customers and vendors, etc.). Management reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Physical and Environmental Work Requirements:

Work involves a variety of physical activity, such as talking, listening, writing, computer work, sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, lifting, carrying, reaching, grasping, pulling, pushing, going up and down stairs.  Good hearing is essential.  Demonstrated ability to cope emotionally with stressful situations, change, frequent interruptions, deadlines, dissatisfied or upset clients and other demands.

Effective oral and written communications skills using good grammar; ability to exercise independent judgment and to keep client information confidential; ability to respect and navigate cultural differences; ability to infrequently step into advocate role when needed; ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with co-workers, clients and community partners; ability to speak clearly and appropriately; ability to exhibit a professional manner; ability to adhere to the Interpreter Code of Ethics at all times.

Medical Interpreter: In addition, working knowledge of medical terminology, excellent customer relations and interpersonal skills; ability to work in a team environment and to collaborate with a variety of professionals; excellent organizations skills; ability to use a personal computer and software applications such as Microsoft products, spreadsheets and database programs; ability to support agency in improving language access for all clients and staff.

Salary : $33 - $35