Medical Spanish Interpreter, Full-Time, Days (Tuesday - Saturday)

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare • Chicago, IL

13d • $24 - $36

About The Position

The Medical Spanish Interpreter provides medical and general interpreting for patients and their families, physicians, healthcare providers, and other staff, following the National Standards of Practice of NCIHC. The role facilitates communication at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, monitors patients’ understanding of information conveyed, and serves as a cultural mediator when appropriate. The interpreter prioritizes concurrent requests and documents interpreting activities according to department standards.

This is a full-time, day-shift position scheduled Tuesday through Saturday, 40 hours per week. The listed hourly salary range is $24.27 to $36.41.

Requirements

• High school education or equivalent.
• Certificate of completion substantiating formal medical interpreter training and qualifications in accordance with NCIHC standards.
• At least three years of experience providing medical interpreting in an acute care setting.
• High fluency in English and another language, both oral and written.
• Ability to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially in both receptive and expressive modes, using medical terminology as appropriate.
• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor in all situations.
• Knowledge of cultural competency and healthcare disparities, with adaptability and sensitivity in cross-cultural situations.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and customer service skills.
• Software competency in Excel and Word, and adaptability to relevant software for data tracking and trending.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

• Provide medical and general interpreting for patients, family members, support persons, healthcare providers, and other staff in accordance with NCIHC standards.
• Interpret during consultations, diagnostic testing, medical procedures and operations, consent processes, and educational forums.
• Ensure that patients’ and families’ needs are communicated to healthcare providers and staff.
• Screen and prioritize multiple interpreter requests according to urgency.
• Assist the healthcare team with problem solving and complaint resolution related to limited-English-proficient populations.
• Participate in ongoing professional development to maintain practice in accordance with professional medical interpreting standards.
• Develop positive relationships with patients, visitors, healthcare providers, fellow interpreters, and staff, demonstrating respect, flexibility, and cooperation.
• Serve as a cultural mediator when appropriate to enhance communication between staff and patients or families from different cultural backgrounds in relation to medical care.
• Support and participate in ongoing assessment and improvement of the interpretation services program.
• Assist with other departmental functions as assigned and participate in staff meetings and mandatory in-services.
• Document each interpreting encounter accurately and completely, including location, duration, purpose, and any patient refusal of interpreting services.
• Maintain accurate records of productivity, work volumes, and interpreting requests.
• Use Excel, Word, and relevant software for data tracking and trending.

Benefits

• Tuition reimbursement
• Loan forgiveness
• 401(k) matching
• A wide range of benefits supporting physical, emotional, and financial well-being and protection for unexpected life events

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED