How to Be On-Site Interpreter - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 22, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The presence of an on-site interpreter can significantly improve communication between two different cultures. This can have a positive effect on both parties, as it allows for increased understanding and mutual respect. By allowing both parties to communicate in their native language, they are able to share their perspectives more accurately and effectively.

Furthermore, an on-site interpreter can help bridge any cultural gaps that may exist between them, allowing them to better collaborate and reach a mutually beneficial solution. having a professional on-site interpreter can reduce the potential for misinterpretation and misunderstanding, leading to improved business relationships, customer service, and overall satisfaction.

Steps How to Become

Obtain an Education. Before becoming an on-site interpreter, it is important to have a strong educational background in the language you will be interpreting. This can include courses in linguistics, language, and communication, as well as any other classes related to the language you will be interpreting.
Get Certified. Many organizations require that on-site interpreters have a certification in their language. Depending on the language, you may be able to obtain certification from a professional organization or through a college or university.
Develop Interpreting Skills. Becoming an on-site interpreter requires a great deal of practice and mastery of the language being interpreted. It is important to develop your skills through books, online resources, and practice with native speakers.
Find Employment Opportunities. Once you have obtained your certification and developed your interpreting skills, you can start looking for employment opportunities. Networking is often a great way to find employers who are looking for on-site interpreters.
Prepare for Interpreting. Before heading to any interpreting job, make sure you are prepared with the necessary materials such as a notebook and pen, a timer, and any other tools you may need. Make sure you arrive early and have a good understanding of the situation you will be interpreting in order to provide the best possible service.

The key to finding an ideal and competent on-site interpreter is to ensure that they possess the qualifications, experience, and professional knowledge necessary for the job. Having a certified interpreter is essential for accuracy in communication, as well as a good understanding of the context and cultural nuances of the language. an interpreter should possess excellent listening and communication skills, as well as a proficiency in both the source and target languages.

Furthermore, they should be familiar with the technical terminology and concepts of the subject matter they are interpreting. Ensuring that all of these factors are met will lead to an ideal and competent on-site interpreter who can provide an accurate, professional interpretation service.

You may want to check Sign Language Interpreter, Speech-Language Pathology Interpreter, and Language Access Interpreter for alternative.

Job Description

On-site Interpreter: Responsible for providing accurate and professional interpretation services to individuals and groups in a variety of settings. Must be fluent in the target language and have a good understanding of the culture and customs associated with it. Must be able to accurately interpret spoken dialogue, written documents, and signs.
On-site Interpreter Trainer: Responsible for training and certifying interpreters in a variety of settings. Must have a good understanding of the target language and culture and be able to communicate effectively with learners of all levels. Must be able to provide feedback and guidance to ensure interpreters are meeting standards.
On-site Interpreter Coordinator: Responsible for scheduling and coordinating interpreter assignments. Must be able to ensure all assignments are completed accurately and professionally. Must be able to manage interpreter availability and bookings, as well as handle any conflicts or issues that may arise.
On-site Interpreter Support Specialist: Responsible for providing technical support to interpreters. Must be able to troubleshoot technical issues related to equipment, software, or other resources. Must also be able to provide advice and guidance on interpreting techniques and protocols.
On-site Interpreter Quality Assurance Specialist: Responsible for evaluating interpreter performance in a variety of settings. Must be able to assess accuracy, fluency, and cultural understanding, as well as provide feedback on areas needing improvement. Must also be able to respond to client inquiries and complaints in a timely manner.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Fluency in the target language
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills
Ability to accurately interpret spoken and written communications in both languages
Knowledge of cultural nuances and accepted interpretations
Ability to remain impartial and objective
Good memory and concentration skills
Good judgment and decision-making skills
Ability to stay calm under pressure
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Up-to-date knowledge of industry terminology and relevant subject matter

The use of an on-site interpreter can be a great asset for any organization, as it allows for effective communication between parties who don't speak the same language. Having an interpreter on-site eliminates language barriers, allowing for everyone to communicate without the risk of miscommunication or misunderstanding. In order for on-site interpreters to be successful, they must possess strong communication skills, a high level of cultural sensitivity, and the ability to think on their feet.

Interpreters must also have a deep understanding of both languages they are interpreting, as well as an in-depth knowledge of the particular subject matter being discussed. With these skills, interpreters are able to accurately convey the ideas and messages of both parties in real time, making conversations more efficient and productive. on-site interpreters can be instrumental in facilitating effective communication between parties that otherwise would be difficult or impossible.

Translator/Interpreter, Community Interpreter, and Sign Language Medical Interpreter are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as an on-site interpreter?
How would you handle a situation where the person you are interpreting for speaks a different dialect than you?
What challenges have you faced when interpreting in a high-pressure environment?
What strategies do you use to ensure accuracy and clarity when interpreting?
How do you keep up with changing industry terminology?
Describe a time when you had to interpret for multiple people at once.
How do you manage to maintain neutrality when interpreting?
Describe a situation where you had to quickly adjust to a changing context while interpreting.
How do you handle difficult conversations or topics while interpreting?
What do you do to ensure confidentiality of all parties involved in the interpretation process?

Common Tools in Industry

Remote Interpreting Software. This software allows interpreters to provide remote interpreting services from a distance. (eg: Zoom, Skype)
Video Conferencing Equipment. This equipment allows interpreters and participants to communicate with each other and view documents and presentations. (eg: Polycom, Cisco Webex)
Translation Software. This software helps interpreters accurately translate words, phrases, and documents in real-time. (eg: Google Translate, SDL Trados)
Language Interpretation Apps. These apps provide instant language interpretation services on mobile devices. (eg: Google Translate, iTranslate)
AI-Powered Interpreting Services. This technology utilizes artificial intelligence to provide automatic, real-time translations. (eg: Microsoft Translator, Amazon Translate)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Translators Association (ATA)
National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators (NAJIT)
International Medical Interpreters Association (IMIA)
United Nations Association of Translators and Interpreters (UNATI)
International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC)
International Federation of Translators (FIT)
National Council on Interpreting in Health Care (NCIHC)
American Sign Language Interpreters Association (ASLIA)
National Association of the Deaf Interpreters (NAD-RID)
International Association of Professional Translators and Interpreters (IAPTI)

We also have Technical Interpreter, Interpreter/Guide, and Over-the-Phone Interpreter jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Interpreting. The process of translating spoken language from one language to another.
Interpreter. A professional who is trained to interpret between two or more languages.
Sign Language Interpreter. An interpreter who is trained to facilitate communication between people who are deaf and those who are hearing, as well as between two deaf people.
Consecutive Interpreting. A type of interpreting in which the interpreter speaks after the speaker has finished, usually in short chunks of speech.
Simultaneous Interpreting. A type of interpreting in which the interpreter speaks simultaneously with the speaker, usually utilizing specialized equipment.
Sight Translation. A type of interpreting in which the interpreter reads a text aloud in the target language without stopping for long periods of time.
Escort Interpreting. A type of interpreting in which the interpreter accompanies a client to a meeting or event and provides interpretation and translation services as needed.
Community Interpreting. A type of interpreting in which the interpreter works in a community setting, such as a school or medical office, to provide interpretation and translation services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do on-site interpreters need?

On-site interpreters must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree or equivalent in interpreting or a related field, along with at least 5 years of professional interpreting experience. They must also be registered with the appropriate national, state, or local professional association.

What types of services do on-site interpreters provide?

On-site interpreters provide verbal interpretation services in person at events, meetings, conferences, and other occasions where interpretation is needed. They can also provide translation services for written documents.

How much do on-site interpreters charge?

The cost of on-site interpretation services can vary widely depending on the language, location, and duration of the assignment. Generally, interpreters charge an hourly rate ranging from $50 to $200 per hour.

What is the difference between consecutive and simultaneous interpreting?

Consecutive interpreting is when the speaker pauses after each phrase or sentence and the interpreter speaks after them. Simultaneous interpreting is when the interpreter provides a continuous interpretation while the speaker is speaking.

What technology do on-site interpreters use?

On-site interpreters typically use headsets and microphones to ensure that everyone can hear the interpretation clearly. They may also use translation software and other technological tools to help them in their work.