Trained Medical Interpreter, Spanish

Lehigh Valley Health Network • REMOTE IN PENNSYLVANIA, PA

20h • Remote

About The Position

Provides Spanish-language interpreting services to support understanding and effective communication between individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) and staff. Assists clinic staff in facilitating cross-cultural communication for non-English-speaking patients of all ages. The role requires accurate, verbatim interpretation that conveys the speaker’s meaning, intent, tone, style, and language level, while preserving the medical record. The interpreter also explains their role and limitations, shares relevant cultural context, and helps patients and clinicians understand available resources, protocols, and referrals.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• One year of experience in human or health services.
• Ability to adhere to interpreter standards of practice and code of ethics.
• Ability to perform the same type of work continuously for extended periods.
• Ability to interpret and translate daily, potentially in stressful situations.
• Excellent listening skills.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and/or specialized vocabulary.
• Understanding of the subject matter sufficient to convert source language to target language effectively.
• BTG (Bridging the Gap) – State of Pennsylvania certification upon hire.

Nice To Haves

• Foreign language training.

Responsibilities

• Provide accurate interpretation between LEP patients and hospital personnel.
• Educate individuals and staff about culturally specific values, beliefs, and practices relevant to the encounter.
• Convey clinical-service information, medical terminology, and support-service information to LEP patients.
• Explain the interpreter’s role and what interpreters can and cannot do.
• Serve as a cultural mediator to enhance communication between patients or families and care teams regarding medical care.
• Explain hospital resources, office protocols, and limitations to clinicians and patients, and make appropriate referrals.
• Develop relationships with LEP community focus groups, focusing on community needs.
• Provide verbatim interpretation that preserves the medical record and conveys the message in the target language.
• Listen effectively, remain open to other points of view, and convey the speaker’s intent, tone, style, and language level.

What This Job Offers

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