Translator/Interpreter Family Support Worker

Classification:  Full-time                                                   Status:  Non- Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position interprets the English and Spanish languages in both oral and written materials. This position will assist and support the implementation of developmentally appropriate educational services to children in the classroom. This position will travel to all locations to ensure all dual language learners can be supported through translation. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Reads through or listens to material in one language, ascertains understanding of the meaning and context of the material, and converts it into a second language, making sure to preserve the original meeting. If not, exact translation ensures the meaning is the same.
• Reads and translates documents in specified language, following established rules pertaining to factors such as word meanings, sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and mechanics.
• In simultaneous interpreting, renders oral translation of material at time it is being spoken.
• Ability to work with both children and adults.
• Act as an advocate for the speaker.
• Strong writing and listening skills.
• Support teachers in completing ASQ-SE, ASQ-3, and child observations for the developmental assessment. This position is not educated in the interpretation/scoring of early childhood screeners.
• Support children during play in the classroom by repeating the words they use in their home language with the words in English. For example, the child says roja and the interpreter would say red, helping the child make the connection.
• Support Family Educators and Child and Family Development Educators with weekly home visits, socializations, and parent meetings.
• This position does not act as a substitute in the classroom because this position may not have all the KDHE hours needed to be a substitute in Early Head Start or Head Start classroom.
• Instruct and support parents in using Positive Behavior Support/Conscious Discipline strategies to prevent and defuse disruptive behavior.
• Comply with Head Start Performance Standards.
• Encourage families and community members to volunteer in the program.
• Respect and support cultural differences and diverse family structures.
• Continue Professional Development as required for this position.
• Demonstrate good work habits such as dependable, punctual attendance and adhering to appropriate break times.
• Attend mandatory In-Service training, staff meetings, and other events as required.
• Maintain a clean and adequately serviced vehicle – this applies to anyone how may drive a program owned vehicle.
• Maintain clean resource items, assessment items, etc.
• Responsibility to report any suspected abuse or neglect to appropriate authority – all EHS/HS staff are mandated reporters.
• Advocate for SEK-CAP in the community.
• Maintain and assure confidentiality and privacy of SEK-CAP customers.
• Uphold and promote the core values and mission statement of SEK-CAP.
• Support management decisions both in actions and words.
• Work flexible hours as needed to support staff and enrolled participants.
• Work cooperatively with local community agencies and providers to ensure comprehensive services to meet family employment needs.
• Submit monthly reports, complete data entry per assigned due dates and times and update as needed.
• Other duties as assigned. (Your supervisor should know what duties other than your regular duties you are assigned to and by whom.)

DEMONSTRATES QUALITIES OF:

• Positive attitude with an enthusiasm for Early Childhood Education services.
• Be a strong representative of SEK-CAP Early Childhood Education services.
• Self- initiative to ensure child’s and families home language is supported while supporting the learning of the English language. 
• Desire to engage with vulnerable children and families in a respectful manner which promotes positive relationships.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

Essential:

• Computer skills with IBM compatible P.C. systems and software.
• Proficient with word processing programs.
• Practical knowledge of document design and page layout.
• Ability to operate general office equipment such as photocopiers, faxes, and phone systems.
• Superior interpersonal skills, including the ability to get along with diverse personalities.
• Ability to interact in a mature, tactful, and flexible manner with the general public.
• Ability to communicate effectively and clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Resourceful and well organized.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with co-workers, community partners, and customers.

Desired:

• Exceptional command of the English and Spanish language with respect to professional communication, including grammar and punctuation.
• Organized and able to implement systems and follow-up processes, use independent judgment, and produce a quality product within tight time constraints.
• Skilled in proofreading, editing, and rewriting.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex ideas into understandable language.

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Obtain FDC credentials within first year of employment.

• Related translation or interpreter field of study, or equivalent experience.

• Successfully completed a physical exam and TB skin test before beginning employment.
• Obtain First Aid card and CPR certification at orientation and keep current.
• Possess current, valid driver’s license and meet agency insurance underwriting guidelines.
• Submit to and pass standard criminal history check.
• Successfully completed a physical exam and TB skin test.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects or controls.
• Reach with hands and arms.
• Sit or occasionally stand; walk and stoop, kneel, or crouch.
• Talk or hear both in person and by telephone.
• Regularly lift and /or move up to 30 pounds.
• Required vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Occasional exposure to wet and/or humid conditions
• Outside weather conditions
• Extreme cold and extreme heat.
• The noise level is usually quiet to moderate.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Dental Insurance
  
• Vision Insurance
  
• Paid Disability Insurance
• Paid Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Life Insurance
• Paid Sick Leave
• Paid Vacation Leave
• Paid Training
• Referral Program
  
• 401(k)
• 401(k) Matching

Weekly day range:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person