Tigrigna Interpreter

At LanguageLine, we strive for a world in which language and cultural barriers no longer exist. Use your language skills to dramatically improve the lives of limited-English speakers, as well as the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing, while working from your own home. LanguageLine has been certified as a Great Place to Work and is regularly listed as one of America’s top work-from-home employers. Our interpreters serve clients across numerous industries, including healthcare, 911, first responders, education, government agencies, and business sectors. As an interpreter, you will receive industry-leading training and opportunities for advancement in a certified ASTM and ISO environment, supported by a Senior Language Specialist and dedicated help desks.

About the Role

The Tigrigna Video-Phone Interpreter is responsible for handling on-demand calls, rendering the meaning of conversations between Tigrigna and English speakers. The interpreter breaks communication barriers in industries such as healthcare, government, insurance, financial services, utilities, travel, hospitality, general business, law enforcement, court systems, and 911. The role requires processing information quickly, recognizing sensitive cultural differences, and maintaining professionalism and courtesy at all times. Sessions may involve simple or complex, technical or non-technical subjects. This is a remote position requiring a quiet and secure home office environment.

Responsibilities

• Respond to video and audio interpreting sessions promptly and conduct interpretation in a friendly and professional manner.
• Participate in online, video, and audio training sessions.
• Deliver interpretation services via video and expediently type data on a dedicated device (laptop, desktop, mobile phone, or tablet).
• Render correct concepts and meanings according to established interpretation protocol, avoiding omissions or additions.
• Speak clearly in both languages using proper pronunciation, enunciation, and polite expressions.
• Maintain a professional demeanor throughout interpreting sessions, including during high-stress or emotional calls (e.g., emergencies, sensitive subjects like end-of-life conversations or matters concerning sexual orientation/gender expression).
• Remain calm and neutral during sessions, especially when primary speakers are incoherent or upset.
• Maintain punctuality and availability during scheduled work hours.
• Follow client instructions and protocol to meet expectations of Limited English-speaking Persons (LEP), avoiding interaction without client permission.
• Understand protocol and terminology for industries such as medical, insurance, finance, and law.
• Demonstrate commitment to cultural sensitivity and working in a diverse environment.
• Handle extended call durations and high call volumes while maintaining company service standards.

Requirements

• Fluency in Tigrigna and English, including cultural dynamics and regional/accent differences.
• Excellent listening, retention, and note-taking skills to ensure accuracy during interpretation.
• Ability to remain neutral, objective, and detached from conversations, even on sensitive topics.
• Education or work experience in language-related fields (e.g., teaching, language assessment, translation, or interpretation) preferred.
• Ability to adapt to technology enhancements that improve service delivery.
• Must be at least 18 years of age and legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to read and write in the requested languages (highly preferred).
• Post-offer, pre-employment background check and/or drug screen may be required based on location.

Technical Requirements

• Dedicated personal device for business purposes (desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone).
• Compatible operating systems: Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, iPadOS, or Android.
• Restricted brands: Kaspersky products and Huawei hardware are not permitted.
• High-speed internet connection with minimum download speeds of 5 Mbps, upload speeds of 3 Mbps, ping value of no more than 300 ms, and jitter value of no more than 30 ms.
• Access to a quiet space free from background noise or distraction.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to operate a keyboard and mouse and remain stationary in front of a computer and webcam for the majority of the workday.
• Ability to use a headset for prolonged periods.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to type or write.
• Able to lift up to 26 lbs.
• May be exposed to moderate noise levels (e.g., computer, audio, telephone).

Pay

$15 - $17 per hour. Compensation will not be less than any applicable state or local minimum wage. For Colorado applicants, the expected pay range is $15.16 - $19.29 per hour.

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 insurance.
• 401K retirement plan.
• Employee referral program.
• Advancement opportunities within the organization.
• Interpreter support and an inclusive, diverse work environment.