Somali Interpreter

LanguageLine Solutions

3d • $18 - $21 • Remote

About The Position

LanguageLine Solutions is hiring a remote Somali-English video-phone interpreter to work from a home office in the United States. The interpreter handles on-demand audio and video sessions, conveying the meaning of conversations between Somali and English speakers across industries including healthcare, government, insurance, finance, utilities, travel and hospitality, general business, law enforcement, courts, and 911. This role provides verbal interpretation, not written translation.

Interpreters are expected to process information quickly and accurately, recognize cultural differences, use appropriate terminology, and follow established interpretation protocols. Sessions may cover simple or complex, technical or non-technical subjects and may involve sensitive or stressful situations. The position requires a quiet, secure home-work environment and the ability to remain professional, neutral, and calm throughout calls.

The company provides professional interpreter training, continued development, interpreter support, and opportunities for advancement. The role uses a dedicated personal device and company software and systems to provide interpretation services and enter information as needed.

Requirements

• Fluency in Somali and English and skill with the associated cultural dynamics.
• Ability to demonstrate cultural competency and assess regional and accent differences to facilitate communication with limited-English speakers.
• Excellent listening, retention, and note-taking skills to maintain accuracy.
• Ability to concentrate, remain detached, neutral, and objective, including during calls about sensitive subjects.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States, with work authorization that does not now or in the future require visa sponsorship.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to use a dedicated personal device for business purposes; supported devices include desktop or laptop computers running Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS, tablets running iPadOS or Android, and smartphones running iOS or Android.
• Must not use restricted Kaspersky products or Huawei hardware.
• High-speed internet connection with at least 5 Mbps download, 3 Mbps upload, ping no greater than 300 ms, and jitter no greater than 30 ms.
• Access to a quiet space free from background noise or distraction.
• Ability to operate a keyboard and mouse and remain stationary in front of a computer and webcam for most of the workday.
• Ability to use a headset for prolonged periods and operate company software and systems.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to type or write.
• Ability to lift up to 26 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Education or work experience in language-related fields such as teaching, language assessment, translation, or interpretation.
• Ability to read and write the requested languages.

Responsibilities

• Respond promptly to on-demand video and audio interpretation sessions and interpret in a friendly, professional manner.
• Participate in online video and audio training sessions.
• Provide interpretation through video and type information promptly on a dedicated device as needed to perform the job.
• Convey correct concepts and meanings according to established interpretation protocols, without omissions or additions.
• Speak clearly in Somali and English with proper pronunciation, enunciation, and polite expressions.
• Maintain a professional demeanor during interpreting sessions.
• Remain calm during difficult or emergency calls, including when a speaker is incoherent or upset.
• Maintain punctuality and availability during scheduled work hours.
• Follow client instructions and protocol, including avoiding interaction with the limited-English-speaking person without client permission.
• Use appropriate protocol and terminology for industries such as medical, insurance, finance, and law.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and work effectively in a diverse environment.
• Meet company service standards during potentially emotional or stressful calls, extended calls without breaks, and periods of high call volume.

Benefits

• Paid professional interpreter training and continuous development.
• Incentives for meeting attendance targets.
• Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable law.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Accident, critical illness, life, and AD&D insurance.
• Inpatient hospital coverage.
• Short-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Employee referral program.
• Advancement opportunities within the organization.
• Interpreter support.
• Inclusive and diverse work environment.

What This Job Offers

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