Interpreting & Deaf Services Community Engagement Specialist

Description

The Interpreter Development & Community Engagement Specialist is responsible for supporting Pine Tree Society in creating more accessible and equitable communities for the Deaf Community.

The position is responsible for advancing the professional growth, ethical practice, and community engagement of interpreters affiliated with Pine Tree Society’s Interpreting Services. The position will be responsible for planning, collaborating and facilitating Pine Tree Society’s innovative programming that provides barrier‑free access to summer camp for the Deaf Community. This position plays a key role in mentoring interpreters, coordinating professional development initiatives, planning and coordinating experiences and programming for members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community, and fostering meaningful connections with the Deaf and interpreting communities.

This position is designed for an individual who demonstrates leadership, professional excellence, and a deep commitment to supporting the next generation of interpreters and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community through ongoing learning, collaboration, and innovation.

Note this is a short‑term (six‑month), grant‑funded position that could turn into a long‑term position

• Develop and implement mentoring initiatives that promote skill‑building, ethical reasoning, and self‑confidence among interpreters.
• Facilitate ongoing learning opportunities, including workshops, study groups, and peer discussions focused on interpreting in varied settings such as medical, mental health, legal, educational, and community environments.
• Support interpreters in identifying individual growth goals and tracking their progress toward certification or specialized credentials.
• Provide one‑on‑one or group mentoring sessions tailored to the professional development needs of staff and contract interpreters.
• Encourage interpreters to stay current with evolving sign language usage, cultural trends, and professional resources.

• Plan and facilitate Pine Tree Society Programming for Deaf Community, including Camp Dirigo, Camp Discover, and Sign Tree Camp and Conference. Effectively collaborate with Pine Tree Society leaders to provide excellent programming.
• Assisting teams to recruit and identify campers for each program.
• Attending programs and events as a representative for the various camps.
• Being an active member of the planning teams for Camp Dirgo, Camp Discover and Sign Tree Camp.
• Stay abreast of current regulations, legislation, and trends affecting the interpreting profession.
• Create and maintain professional resources for interpreters, including continuing education materials, ethical case studies, and reference tools.

• Serve as a liaison between Pine Tree Society, the Deaf community, and the professional interpreting field.
• Strengthen relationships with community partners, advocacy groups, and educational institutions to enhance collaboration and visibility.
• Represent Pine Tree Society at community events, conferences, and professional forums to promote inclusive communication and interpreter engagement.
• Maintain a strong presence in relevant social media and professional networks to stay connected with current discussions and opportunities in the field.
• Foster a sense of belonging and collaboration within Maine’s interpreting and Deaf communities.

• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by:
  • Participating in in‑service trainings and workshops.
  • Attending educational conferences and courses related to interpreting and community engagement.
  • Reading professional literature and engaging in team discussions to exchange best practices.
• Model ongoing professional development and ethical leadership to inspire others in the interpreting community.

• Certification: RID/NAD Certified Interpreter required.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of interpreting experience, including exposure to diverse settings (medical, mental health, legal, community,…