Job Description

This is professional work interpreting, in a professional manner, all court-related proceedings for individuals with limited English proficiency.  The interpreter is expected to impartially interpret statements between two or more persons conversing in English and the employee’s language specialty.  The languages may involve terminology or idiomatic expressions difficult to translate. 

Employees are able to question the speaker on any point that is not understood.  A significant aspect of the work involves establishing effective working relationships and inspiring confidence of non‑English speaking people.  The employee is responsible for communicating in a manner most easily understood and preferred.  Work also requires a high degree of confidentiality and discretion. The interpreter must deliver services in a manner that is consistent with the Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility for judiciary interpreters promulgated by the First Judicial District and the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

THE FOLLOWING DUTIES ARE NORMAL FOR THIS POSITION.  THESE ARE NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS EXCLUSIVE OR ALL-INCLUSIVE.  OTHER DUTIES MAY BE REQUIRED AND ASSIGNED.

Interprets in open court and other judicial departments, divisions and offices for individuals with limited English proficiency.

Interprets all communications as required in the appropriate interpreting modes: simultaneous, consecutive or sight.

Translates various documents, both orally and in writing, such as judicial orders, notices, forms, pamphlets, and correspondence for individuals with limited English proficiency.

Gives information in language specialty to those inquiring about activities and facilities which the judiciary makes available to the public either in person or by telephone.

Maintains confidentiality of information acquired during interpretation session as required by professional Code of Ethics for judiciary interpreters and other work rules.

Keeps a record of all interpreter requests and assignments according to established procedures.

Prepares weekly and annual reports and meets regularly with supervisor to discuss work progress and any additional issues.

Directs and handles requests for all languages and sign interpreters according to established procedure.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

Maintains interpreting proficiency by participating in professional activities such as seminars and workshops; member of at least one professional organization.

Acts as language consultant for the judiciary and other court officials.

Performs other related work as required.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Standard courtroom conditions.

Direct contact with diverse court clientele.

APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT https://fjdcareers.phila.gov/Cyberweb/fjdcareers.aspx

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

1.      Certification or Registration from the Administrative Office of the Pennsylvania Courts, or reciprocity from another State program.

2.      Graduation from a recognized training program for interpreters/translators.

OR

3.      A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferred

OR

4.      One or two years of experience providing interpreter/translator services in a judicial setting.

5.      Must successfully complete a criminal background investigation.

6.      After meeting minimum standards, successful completion of a panel review and interview process.

7.     Ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

8.     Proof of Covid-19 Vaccination is required.     .

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Extensive knowledge of language translation practices and techniques of language.
• Thorough knowledge of the grammar and use of language specialty and English.
• Considerable knowledge of colloquialisms, idiomatic expressions of language specialty.
• Considerable knowledge of accepted ethical standards, applicable statutes or rules governing interpreters, and medical and legal terminology.
• Ability to convey content and affect of the communication transmitted using the language most easily understood by the persons involved in the communication transaction.
• Ability to translate routine correspondence into language specialty.
• Ability to exercise judgment to assess whether or not communication is being understood.
• Ability to interpret for long periods of time.
• Ability to maintain impartiality with regard to the setting and/or persons involved.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with associates and the general public.
• Ability to interpret in the simultaneous, consecutive, and sight modes during court proceedings from English into target language and from source language into English.
• Ability to translate legal documents using appropriate grammar, syntax, and spelling.
• Ability to maintain impartiality with regard to the setting and/or persons involved.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with associates and the general public.

APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT https://fjdcareers.phila.gov/Cyberweb/fjdcareers.aspx

Additional Information

SALARY RANGE: $61,460-$68,181

Did you know?

• We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer
• 25% tuition discount program for City employees (and sometimes spouses and dependents as well) in partnership with area colleges and universities
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available

The First Judicial District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the First Judicial District will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.