Spanish Medical Interpreter

Emory•Atlanta, GA

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Foreign Lang Med Interpreter provides accurate consecutive and/or simultaneous interpretation for limited English proficient (LEP) patients and their families, ensuring complete and culturally appropriate communication throughout the continuum of care. Serving as both a language specialist and cultural liaison, the interpreter promotes understanding between patients and healthcare providers, supports equitable care delivery, and ensures adherence to regulatory requirements and professional standards. This position also participates in departmental education, documentation, and performance improvement initiatives.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Two (2) years of experience in a healthcare, medical setting, customer service, advocacy, or related field, with at least one (1) year in medical interpretation.
Certification - Completion of a 40-60-hour Medical Interpreter Training Program (e.g., Bridging the Gap, ALTA, Language Line Academy).
Certified Medical Interpreter (CMI - NBCMI) or Certified Healthcare Interpreter (CHI - CCHI) preferred; required within 1 year of hire.
Demonstrated proficiency in English and target language (speaking, reading, writing), with emphasis on medical terminology.
Proficiency validated via a third-party Interpreter Skills Test (IST).

Nice To Haves

Associate's Degree in business, foreign language, healthcare administration or related field
4 years minimum experience.
Experience in delivering interpreter-related training or education.
Broad knowledge of medical terminology.
Understanding of cultural humility and healthcare system navigation.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and interpreter technology platforms.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to maintain professionalism under pressure.

Responsibilities

Language Interpretation Accurately interpret messages during medical encounters using consecutive, simultaneous, and sight translation techniques.
Provide over-the-phone and/or video remote interpretation when in-person services are not available.
Support communication across a variety of clinical settings, including surgery, trauma, mental health, palliative care, and discharge planning.
Cultural Mediation Serve as a cultural broker to bridge understanding and reduce disparities between patients and healthcare teams.
Educate healthcare providers about cultural considerations impacting patient care.
Documentation & Compliance Maintain accurate records of interpretation services, including encounter type, duration, and location.
Adhere to HIPAA, the National Code of Ethics for Interpreters in Health Care, and Emory Healthcare policies.
Professional Development & Mentorship Participate in continuing education, quality improvement, and competency validation activities.
Mentor newly hired interpreters and support peer review processes.
Deliver training to staff regarding language access compliance and interpreter service procedures.
Operational Support Assist with interpreter scheduling and dispatch functions during low-volume periods.
Support deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of interpretation equipment (phones, iPads, VRI units).
Patient & Family Support Remain available for on-call or after-hours assignments as needed.
Provide navigation assistance and connect patients/families with hospital or community resources as appropriate.