Tigrinya In-Person Interpreter

Position Overview

The Tigrinya In-Person Interpreter (IPI) works onsite in King County to facilitate communication for Limited English Proficient (LEP) community members and the practitioners that serve them. This independent contractor contract offers the opportunity to expand interpreting practice with many sessions per day.

• Provide professional onsite interpreting sessions in a clear, polite manner.
• Exhibit punctuality, preparedness, and professional appearance for every session.
• Adapt quickly to new and changing situations while maintaining accuracy.
• Adhere to interpreter ethical standards and procedural requirements specific to interpreting context.
• Commit to cultural sensitivity and working in a diverse environment.
• Respect LEP clients, culture, dialect, and beliefs during each interaction.
• Speak clearly in both languages using proper pronunciation, enunciation, and polite expressions.
• Render exact and correct concepts and meanings according to interpreter protocol.

• Fluent in Tigrinya and English with strong verbal communication skills in both directions.
• Excellent listening and retention skills to maintain high accuracy during interpretation.
• Completion of a proficiency assessment or possession of a national certification.
• Extensive knowledge of interpreter ethical codes and standards of practice (IMIA, NBCMI, NCIHC).
• Minimum age of 18 years.

• Ability to read and write in both Tigrinya and English.
• Degree or certifications in interpreting practices.
• National Medical Interpreter Certification by CCHI, NBCMI, or DSHS.
• Completion of an accredited medical interpreting training course (e.g., ALTA, MITS, Bridging the Gap, MiTio, Cross-Cultural training, 40‑hour accredited medical courses).