ASL-English Interpreter, Interpreter, Language Specialist, LSQ-French Interpreter
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
Interest in listening to speakers or reading from texts in order to interpret statements made during speeches, meetings, conferences, debates and conversation, or in court or before administrative tribunals
Interest in analyzing information when listening to and watching the source language, in processing the content, meaning, context and affect, and in reproducing messages simultaneously, or consecutively
Interest in speaking to facilitate communication between individuals with differing languages
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
The process of interpreting is the same regardless of the languages involved. A message from one language and cultural context must be expressed accurately in another. An interpreter’s goal is to facilitate communication and ensure an effective and accurate interpretation while refraining from counselling, advising, or interjecting personal opinions. A sign language interpreter interprets all spoken and signed utterances.
Prior to appointments, sign language interpreters review relevant background information. Individuals requiring interpretation services provide information about terminology and copies of working documents, meeting handouts, agendas, or minutes. In educational settings, schools must provide texts, handouts, audiovisual materials, and other course materials so interpreters can become familiar with course theory and terminology.
In school settings, sign language interpreters may interpret:
Sign language interpreters provide interpretation services wherever communication is required. They may work in:
Depending on the length and complexity of the assignment, interpreters may work in teams. This allows them to facilitate communication, ensure message equivalency, and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
Following industry best practices in occupational health and safety, sign language interpreters typically work no longer than 15 to 30 minutes at a time, and no more than 22 hours a week.
Interpreters who work as independent contractors may choose to work irregular hours in addition to the standard minimum assignment callout.
Qualifications differ significantly among sectors, so sign language interpreters need to be flexible in order to meet changing requirements. In general, sign language interpreters need:
They should enjoy the process of interpreting and facilitating communication.
Hearing is not required. Increasingly, deaf people are training as interpreters.
Sign language interpreters must have excellent spoken English or French skills and be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) or la langue des signes quebecoise (LSQ). Employers generally prefer to hire interpreters who:
For information about interpreter training programs in Canada, visit the CASLI website.
Admission to an interpreter training program generally requires a high level of skill in American Sign Language. ASL classes are offered through continuing education at high schools and post-secondary schools.
Familiarity with Signing Exact English may be beneficial in working with hard-of-hearing individuals.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
Certification is not required, as there is currently no legislation regulating this occupation. However, employers consider certification an asset.
Voluntary certification is available from the Canadian Association of Sign Language Interpreters (CASLI).
Sign language interpreters may be employed by institutions or interpreter referral agencies. They may also work as independent contractors.
Interpreters in educational settings may work in public or private elementary or secondary schools, post-secondary schools, or schools for the deaf. Interpreters who have business or administrative skills may be hired to co-ordinate interpreting services for agencies, post-secondary and other schools, conventions, or for other short-term assignments.
Sign language interpreters are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5125: Translators, terminologists and interpreters. In Alberta, 78% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Incomes and benefits vary depending on the interpreter’s skill level, certification, education, experience, and professional development.
Interpreters may be paid by the hour, half day, or full day. Typically, they charge a 2-hour or half-day minimum and require at least 48 hours’ notice of cancellation.
Sign language interpreters are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5125: Translators, terminologists and interpreters.
According to the 2017 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey, Albertans in the Translators, terminologists and interpreters occupational group earned on average from $34.71 to $39.64 an hour. The overall average was $35.24 an hour. For more information, see the Translators, terminologists and interpreters wage profile.
Association of Sign Language Interpreters of Alberta (ASLIA) website: www.aslia.ca
Canadian Association of Sign Language Interpreters (CASLI) website: www.avlic.ca
For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.
Updated Mar 31, 2019. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.