Medical Interpreter

Job Summary

The Medical Interpreter 2 position provides concise, objective, and accurate interpretation for Limited English Proficient (LEP) patients throughout UCSF Health in person, by video, and by telephone in English and Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, or Vietnamese. Under the direction of the departmental management team, the role performs translations and utilizes technology and tools provided by UCSF Health for document translations.

The interpreter shadows and orients new medical interpreters and participates in staff, provider, and patient educational opportunities. Functions as a member of the health care team with the ability to interpret/translate complex communications in patient, caregiver, and provider interactions in a medical setting. Maintains HIPAA compliance and patient confidentiality and adheres to all federal and state language access requirements governing LEP patients.

Interpreters serve in the following roles for UCSF Health:

• Conduit: interpreting messages accurately and completely.
• Communication Manager: preserving the therapeutic relationship between patient, providers, and caregivers during interactions.
• Cultural Broker: providing observation and articulation of cultural diversity and influence which could be a presenting factor during interactions.
• Patient Advocate: appropriate advocacy in accordance with medical center policies and medical interpreter ethics and standards.

Notes:
Qualified applicants are required to obtain a passing score for both interpreting and translation skill assessment administered by UCSF Interpreting Services and/or approved third party before interview. Salary and offer components are subject to UC policy and internal equity considerations.

The Interpreting and Translation Services department at UCSF Health provides interpreting services 24/7 to patients, families, providers, and staff to facilitate optimal care. Services are provided on-site, over-the-phone, and via video in over 200 languages, including American Sign Language. We also offer document translation services and bilingual certification for clinicians and staff.

• 5+ years of experience as a Medical Interpreter in an academic or clinical setting
• Active national certification for healthcare interpreting (CCHI or NBCMI)
• Fluency in written and spoken English and target language(s):
  Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, or Vietnamese, with proficient reading and writing skills in English and target language(s)
• Extensive knowledge of medical terminology in source and target language(s); intermediate-to-advanced knowledge of human anatomy and systemic physiology, validated by a prerequisite competency assessment
• Active national certification with continuing education units
• Passing score on one or both nationally recognized certification tests (CCHI or NBCMI)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with sensitivity and patience in high-pressure settings while maintaining patient confidentiality and awareness of cultural differences
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to function in a complex, fast-paced setting
• Flexibility to orient and work at all UCSF Health locations

• Knowledge of UCSF Health policies, procedures, and protocols
• Experience with remote interpreting technology
• Experience with translation memory software provided by UCSF Health
• Familiarity with Zoom or other conferencing tools with simultaneous interpreting capabilities
• Competency in additional languages not listed above

• Active national certification for healthcare interpreting (CCHI or NBCMI)

At UCSF Health, our mission centers on innovative patient care, advanced technology, and pioneering research. We are consistently ranked among the top hospitals nationwide and offer opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment.

UCSF values professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity, and excellence (PRIDE). We strive for equity in care and workforce, fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Health

008795 CLIN APPLICATIONS PROFL 2

Professional (Non-Clinical), Support Services

99 - Policy-Covered (No Bargaining Unit)

Career

100%

San Francisco, CA

Mission Bay (SF)

Fully On-Site

Days, Weekends, Variable

8 Hours