Manager, Language Access Services

Emory Healthcare•Tucker, GA

15h•Hybrid

About The Position

The System Manager, Language Access Services is responsible for the day-to-day management, coordination, and quality assurance of interpretation and translation services across Emory Healthcare. This role oversees frontline staff and operational workflows to ensure 24/7 language access compliance, service delivery excellence, and support for patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) or other communication barriers. The Manager plays a critical leadership role in interpreter training, workflow optimization, regulatory compliance, and partnership with clinical and non-clinical teams across the healthcare system. This position reports to the System Director, Language Access Services and ensures that all language services align with organizational standards, federal regulations, and patient experience priorities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in one of the following or a related field: Business Administration Healthcare Administration Interpreting Studies Public Health
7+ years of relevant experience in healthcare or social services settings
At least three (3) years in a supervisory or management role
Equivalent Experience Consideration:An Associate’s degree with 9+ years of progressively responsible experience, including 5+ years in leadership within healthcare or language services, may be considered in lieu of a bachelor's degree.
Fluency in English and at least one additional spoken language
Demonstrated experience in team leadership and operational management
Completion of a qualified medical interpreter training program (e.g., Bridging the Gap)
Knowledge of CLAS Standards, Title VI, Section 1557, and Joint Commission language access requirements
Familiarity with the National Code of Ethics and interpreter standards of practice
Strong organizational, interpersonal, and customer service skills
Ability to manage service delivery operations and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams
Ability to analyze operational metrics and drive performance improvements

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree in: Business Administration Healthcare Administration Interpreting Studies Public Health Or a related field
9+ years of relevant experience
5+ years in a management role
Prior experience within a large, multi-site healthcare system
National certification through: CCHI (Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters), or NBCMI (National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters)

Responsibilities

Develops and enforces policies to ensure compliance with CLAS Standards, Joint Commission requirements, CMS regulations, and Section 1557.
Monitors operational metrics including interpreter wait times, service fulfillment rates, and vendor utilization.
Leads quality audits and prepares reports for leadership.
Identifies and resolves issues that may impact communication access for LEP and Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing patients.
Partners with clinical, nursing, administrative, and IT teams to integrate language access services into care delivery workflows.
Educates staff on legal requirements, interpreter protocols, and appropriate service utilization.
Coordinates onboarding for new facilities and departments.
Provides training on system policies, interpreter protocols, and patient communication rights.
Tracks system-wide service metrics and trends to inform operational and strategic planning.
Uses data analytics and reporting tools to identify improvement opportunities and support leadership initiatives.
Leads cultural competency programs and interpreter development initiatives aligned with national standards.
Manages departmental resources, technology platforms, and vendor relationships to ensure efficient service delivery.
Oversees scheduling systems, Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), Over-the-Phone Interpreting (OPI) platforms, and virtual call center operations.
Evaluates resource utilization and recommends process improvements and cost optimization strategies.
Represents the Language Access Services department on internal committees, professional associations, and external forums.
Maintains current knowledge of best practices in language access and interpretation through continuing education, training, and professional networking.
Leads or participates in initiatives that promote equity, cultural responsiveness, and access to care.
Collaborates with Marketing and Patient Experience teams to enhance outreach and education for LEP communities.
Promotes a culture of inclusion, trust, accountability, and patient-centered care across the healthcare system.