Educational Sign Language Interpreter, Special Education

San Joaquin County Office of Education is a dedicated public educational institution committed to delivering high-quality educational services to all students within San Joaquin County. With a strong mission to support lifelong learning and student development, the Office of Education strives to enhance the educational experiences and outcomes for diverse student populations through skilled personnel and strategic program implementation. Known for fostering inclusive educational environments, the organization emphasizes the importance of accessibility, equity, and specialized support services that accommodate the unique needs of all learners, including those who are deaf and hard of hearing (D/HH).

This role is integral to supporting the mission by providing professional interpreting and transliteration services that facilitate effective communication between deaf and hard of hearing students and the educational community, including teachers, administrators, parents, and counselors. Working under the guidance of a Program Administrator, the successful candidate will play a vital role in ensuring that D/HH students receive equitable access to instructional content and meaningful participation in the educational process. The interpreting professional must demonstrate proficiency in conveying information receptively and expressively, accurately interpreting specialized vocabulary as required by the educational setting.

The position is part-time, encompassing 182 workdays per year, with a scheduled six hours per day, Monday through Friday. This opportunity allows for a flexible work arrangement while contributing significantly to the classroom experience of D/HH students. The position is designed to assist teachers by providing the necessary communication bridge that supports instructional delivery and student comprehension, effectively enhancing the learning environment. It’s important to note that this part-time role will not generate full-time service credit for PERS/STRS, which is a consideration for those evaluating long-term benefits and retirement plans.

Compensation for this role begins at $35.39 per hour, reflecting the specialized skills and certifications required to perform interpreting services at a professional level. Candidates are expected to hold a minimum of a twelfth-grade education or its equivalent, with proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics consistent with high school senior-level standards. Additionally, eligibility requires obtaining RID Certification or an equivalent credential. In cases where RID Certification is not held, the candidate must have achieved a score of 4.0 or above on assessments such as the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA), ESSE-I/R, or the NAD/ACCI evaluation, ensuring a standard of interpreting competence suitable for educational environments.

Applicants interested in this meaningful opportunity to contribute to educational equity and academic success for D/HH students are encouraged to apply online. The application process necessitates the submission of a formal letter of interest, a resume, and three professional letters of recommendation, ideally dated within the past year, to establish the candidate's qualifications and commitment. Communication during the application process is managed primarily via email, with periodic updates provided to candidates. Assistance is available for applicants navigating the submission process, underscoring the institution's commitment to accessibility and support throughout recruitment.

In summary, this role at the San Joaquin County Office of Education offers a rewarding chance to work within a respected public education system focused on inclusive education. The opportunity to provide interpreting/transliteration services to D/HH students not only supports their immediate academic needs but also promotes long-term empowerment and success. This position is well-suited for professionals passionate about accessibility, communication, and education, dedicated to making a positive impact within their community and advancing the mission of educational equity.