SAUGUS UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT BILINGUAL INTERPRETER/TRANSLATOR DEFINITION Provides language translation and/or interpretation as needed. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This class is distinguished by the ability to translate the spoken or written words and expressions from one language into another in a range of settings. Translators deal with written text and Interpreters work with live speech. Translators and Interpreters must have a high degree of fluency in the languages they translate and an understanding of the subject matter. Foreign language competency is demonstrated by successful passing of a bilingual test. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: Special Information: Some positions in this classification may require: •Availability of private transportation •Positions in this classification may occasionally be assigned any duties normally assigned in another classification May include, but are not limited to, the following; •Consecutive Interpreting: listens to complete statements, in one language, translates to second, and translates responses from second into first language •Simultaneous Interpreting: Renders oral translation of material at time it is being spoken and usually receives a briefing on the subject matter being discussed prior to the interpreting session •Liaison Interpreting: This is for conversations between two or more people who speak different languages and often involves interpreting by telephone •In bilingual classroom assignment: correct use of Spanish (or other required) language usage, punctuation, spelling and grammar •Translates a wide variety of subject matter materials •Performs routine clerical tasks and operates duplicating machines •Assists teachers or staff with Individualized Education Program (IEP) through translation and/or interpreting •Acts as communicator between pupil and teacher when necessary and between pupil and peers as appropriate •Maintains confidentiality •Performs related duties as assigned QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of: •Basic communication skills •Reading, speaking, and writing in English •Basic math skills •English grammar and composition Ability to: •Have good communication and people skills •Translate spoken passages from one language into another •Provide consecutive or simultaneous translation between languages •Fluently speak, write and translate a foreign language •Translate ambiguous or unclear statements •Maintain emotional control under difficult situations •Interpret/translate written and verbal material •Perform routine clerical work such as incidental typing, sorting, measuring cutting, filing, and duplicating •Establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the pupils and staff EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: A high school diploma or equivalent and or any combination of education and experience that could likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be to have lived in at least one foreign culture for an extended period of time Physical: Good physical condition ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: •Visual ability to read handwritten or typed documents, and the display screen of various office equipment and machines •Able to conduct verbal conversation •Able to hear normal range verbal conversation (approximately 60 decibels) •Able to sit, stand, stoop, kneel, bend and walk •Able to sit for sustained periods of time •Able to kneel or squat for extended periods of time •Able to climb slopes, stairs, steps, ramps and ladders •Able to lift up to 50 pounds •Able to carry up to 50 pounds •Able to push and pull objects weighing up to 100 pounds •Able to sustain strenuous manual labor for a minimum of 3.75 hrs. •Able to exhibit full range of motion for: •shoulder external rotation and internal rotation •shoulder abduction and adduction •elbow flexion and extension •shoulder extension and flexion •back lateral flexion •hip flexion and extension •knee flexion •Able to demonstrate manual dexterity necessary to operate a computer and other classroom equipment in a safe and efficient manner While the ideal candidate will possess all these abilities, duties assigned can be modified to accommodate some physical restrictions.