American Sign Language Interpreter Jobs for OPT Students
American Sign Language Interpreter jobs are open to F-1 OPT students with degrees in interpretation, linguistics, or deaf studies. Most roles qualify as specialty occupations for OPT authorization. STEM OPT extension is not available for this field, so your 12-month OPT window is your primary work authorization period.
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Get Access To All JobsWe are hiring for: American Sign Language Interpreter/PAHrtners Deaf Services/Moon Township/FT
Type: Regular
If you are a positive and personable individual looking for a satisfying and fun opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people with intellectual, developmental disabilities, and people facing mental health, and substance use challenges, join our team at RHA Health Services! The Staff Interpreter is responsible for interpreting in various settings for members and staff.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Interpreting with at least one year interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Bachelor’s degree in another field with at least one year interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Associates degree in Interpreting plus three years interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Associates degree in any field plus three years interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in Interpreting or another field with at least one year of interpreting experience with Deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities preferred.
If not Certified (CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD), the interpreter must be under the supervision of a Certified Mental Health Interpreter (QMHI - Qualified Mental Health Interpreter). Must obtain Certification (CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD) within the one year of employment.
Other:
Current registration as a Sign Language Interpreter with the Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing with the Department of Labor and Industry.
Responsibilities:
- Provide interpreting services sign to voice and voice to sign for deaf and hard of hearing staff and members in the mode they prefer and understand. Interpreting assignments are provided in various settings, including psychiatric evaluations/appointments, meetings with family members, clinical team meetings, staff meetings, telephone conference calls, and staff/member trainings on and off site.
- Travel to assignments and maintain flexibility with schedule when assignments occur outside the office.
- Communicate with Assistant Operations Director regarding unfilled assignments, last minute requests/cancellations, consumer complaints and other relevant issues to maintain program integrity and performance standards.
- Serve as a resource and provide educational materials and training to staff regarding communication access for deaf/hard of hearing individuals.
- Maintain accurate billing records in relation to members served.
- Adhere to the NAD - Registry of Interpreter of the Deaf Code of Professional Conduct for Sign Language Interpreters.
- Provide communication access for emergency services, as necessary.
- Utilize safe crisis management techniques to manage situations involving agitated and/or hostile behaviors of consumers, without the use of physical restraints.
- Participate in quality assurance and performance improvement activities, as directed.
- Participate on committees or with special projects to further the goals and objectives of the program/company.
- Perform all job responsibilities in a safe manner and adhere to safety practices and standards established by the company.
- Adhere to the Exposure Control Plan and wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required by the task being performed.
- Maintain confidentiality in accordance with company policy and HIPAA Privacy Rule regulations.
- Adhere to company policies and procedures.
- Attend and successfully complete all trainings and supervision sessions as directed.
- Complete and submit documentation of time worked accurately and in a timely manner.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Physical And Sensory Requirements
- Must possess vision/hearing senses, with or without reasonable accommodation, will enable these senses to function adequately, so that the requirements of the position can be fully met.
- Must possess the ability to be physically mobile, with or without reasonable accommodation, so that the requirements of the position can be fully met.
- Must be able to physically assist with evacuating members during emergency situations.
Additional Requirements
Must be able to perform the following physical activities required of the position with or without reasonable accommodation:
* Frequency: Performs these functions Rarely <10%; Occasionally 11-35%; Frequently 36-70%; Consistently 71-100%
Pre-employment screening:
- Complete criminal background
- Name checked in the registries. (OIG exclusions database, Child Abuse Registry, and Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities)
- Drug testing
- Education verification and other credentialing based on position requirements.
- Proof of employment history or references (if required)
- Positions that require driving Proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle, IF required for providing transportation for individuals.
We offer the following benefits to employees:
- Payactiv: early access to the money you’ve earned from hours you’ve already worked, before payday!
- Employee perks and discount program: to help you save money!
- Paid Time Off (full-time employees only)
- Health/Insurance (full-time employees only)
- 401(k) retirement savings program
- Wellbeing Programs: Physical, Emotional and Financial
- Chronic Disease management programs for hypertension and diabetes (for qualifying employees)
- Training: Free CPR, first aid, and job-specific training opportunities
- contract/contingent workers and interns do not qualify for any of the above benefits
EEO Statement
RHA is an equal opportunity employer. In addition, we provide reasonable accommodation to qualified employees who have protected disabilities to the extent required by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact our solutions center.
About RHA:
At RHA Health Services, we help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health and/or substance use needs live their best lives. Our mission is to provide a safe and healthy environment while creating opportunities for personal outcomes. For over 30 years, the people we serve and support have remained at the very center of everything we do. RHA currently provides services in North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and New Jersey. If you are ready to make a difference in the lives of people we serve and support apply to join the team today.
We are hiring for: American Sign Language Interpreter/PAHrtners Deaf Services/Moon Township/FT
Type: Regular
If you are a positive and personable individual looking for a satisfying and fun opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people with intellectual, developmental disabilities, and people facing mental health, and substance use challenges, join our team at RHA Health Services! The Staff Interpreter is responsible for interpreting in various settings for members and staff.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Interpreting with at least one year interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Bachelor’s degree in another field with at least one year interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Associates degree in Interpreting plus three years interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Associates degree in any field plus three years interpreting experience with deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities AND current CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD; OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in Interpreting or another field with at least one year of interpreting experience with Deaf individuals with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities preferred.
If not Certified (CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD), the interpreter must be under the supervision of a Certified Mental Health Interpreter (QMHI - Qualified Mental Health Interpreter). Must obtain Certification (CSC, CT/CI, NIC from RID, or Level III from NAD) within the one year of employment.
Other:
Current registration as a Sign Language Interpreter with the Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing with the Department of Labor and Industry.
Responsibilities:
- Provide interpreting services sign to voice and voice to sign for deaf and hard of hearing staff and members in the mode they prefer and understand. Interpreting assignments are provided in various settings, including psychiatric evaluations/appointments, meetings with family members, clinical team meetings, staff meetings, telephone conference calls, and staff/member trainings on and off site.
- Travel to assignments and maintain flexibility with schedule when assignments occur outside the office.
- Communicate with Assistant Operations Director regarding unfilled assignments, last minute requests/cancellations, consumer complaints and other relevant issues to maintain program integrity and performance standards.
- Serve as a resource and provide educational materials and training to staff regarding communication access for deaf/hard of hearing individuals.
- Maintain accurate billing records in relation to members served.
- Adhere to the NAD - Registry of Interpreter of the Deaf Code of Professional Conduct for Sign Language Interpreters.
- Provide communication access for emergency services, as necessary.
- Utilize safe crisis management techniques to manage situations involving agitated and/or hostile behaviors of consumers, without the use of physical restraints.
- Participate in quality assurance and performance improvement activities, as directed.
- Participate on committees or with special projects to further the goals and objectives of the program/company.
- Perform all job responsibilities in a safe manner and adhere to safety practices and standards established by the company.
- Adhere to the Exposure Control Plan and wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required by the task being performed.
- Maintain confidentiality in accordance with company policy and HIPAA Privacy Rule regulations.
- Adhere to company policies and procedures.
- Attend and successfully complete all trainings and supervision sessions as directed.
- Complete and submit documentation of time worked accurately and in a timely manner.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Physical And Sensory Requirements
- Must possess vision/hearing senses, with or without reasonable accommodation, will enable these senses to function adequately, so that the requirements of the position can be fully met.
- Must possess the ability to be physically mobile, with or without reasonable accommodation, so that the requirements of the position can be fully met.
- Must be able to physically assist with evacuating members during emergency situations.
Additional Requirements
Must be able to perform the following physical activities required of the position with or without reasonable accommodation:
* Frequency: Performs these functions Rarely <10%; Occasionally 11-35%; Frequently 36-70%; Consistently 71-100%
Pre-employment screening:
- Complete criminal background
- Name checked in the registries. (OIG exclusions database, Child Abuse Registry, and Offenders Against Individuals with Developmental Disabilities)
- Drug testing
- Education verification and other credentialing based on position requirements.
- Proof of employment history or references (if required)
- Positions that require driving Proof of driver's license, driver's insurance, and vehicle, IF required for providing transportation for individuals.
We offer the following benefits to employees:
- Payactiv: early access to the money you’ve earned from hours you’ve already worked, before payday!
- Employee perks and discount program: to help you save money!
- Paid Time Off (full-time employees only)
- Health/Insurance (full-time employees only)
- 401(k) retirement savings program
- Wellbeing Programs: Physical, Emotional and Financial
- Chronic Disease management programs for hypertension and diabetes (for qualifying employees)
- Training: Free CPR, first aid, and job-specific training opportunities
- contract/contingent workers and interns do not qualify for any of the above benefits
EEO Statement
RHA is an equal opportunity employer. In addition, we provide reasonable accommodation to qualified employees who have protected disabilities to the extent required by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact our solutions center.
About RHA:
At RHA Health Services, we help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health and/or substance use needs live their best lives. Our mission is to provide a safe and healthy environment while creating opportunities for personal outcomes. For over 30 years, the people we serve and support have remained at the very center of everything we do. RHA currently provides services in North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and New Jersey. If you are ready to make a difference in the lives of people we serve and support apply to join the team today.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in American Sign Language Interpreter
Target educational institutions first
K-12 schools, universities, and community colleges are among the most active employers of ASL interpreters and frequently work with OPT students. Educational settings often have HR departments experienced with student work authorization paperwork.
Document your RID certification status clearly
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf credentials signal professional readiness to employers. Even provisional or associate certification strengthens your application. Many hospital and legal interpreting contracts require certification, so listing your status upfront saves time for both sides.
Emphasize your EIPA or NIC scores on your resume
Standardized interpreter evaluations like the EIPA or NIC give employers objective proof of your skill level. High scores can overcome concerns about hiring an OPT student by demonstrating you meet or exceed the minimum qualifying threshold for the role.
Use Migrate Mate to find OPT-friendly interpreting employers
Migrate Mate filters job listings by visa sponsorship history so you can prioritize employers who have hired OPT students before. Focusing your applications on these employers significantly improves your chances of receiving an offer with a clear sponsorship path.
American Sign Language Interpreter jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does an ASL interpreter role qualify as a specialty occupation for OPT?
Yes, ASL interpreter positions typically qualify as specialty occupations when a bachelor's degree in interpretation, linguistics, deaf studies, or a directly related field is a standard requirement for the role. USCIS evaluates this on a case-by-case basis, so the job posting should specify a degree requirement rather than listing it as preferred. Roles in educational, legal, and healthcare settings generally have the clearest qualification pathway.
Is a STEM OPT extension available for ASL interpreters?
No. ASL interpretation and deaf studies programs are not included on the STEM Designated Degree Program List maintained by DHS, so the 24-month STEM OPT extension is not available for this field. You have a 12-month standard OPT period to secure employment and, if needed, an employer willing to sponsor an H-1B or another nonimmigrant work visa before your authorization ends.
Which employers are most likely to sponsor an H-1B for ASL interpreters?
Federal agencies, large hospital systems, school districts in states with high deaf student populations, and university disability services offices are among the most consistent sponsors for ASL interpreter roles. These organizations have legal and compliance teams familiar with the H-1B process and ongoing interpreting needs that justify the cost of sponsorship. You can browse employers with a history of OPT and H-1B sponsorship on Migrate Mate.
Can I work as a freelance or contract ASL interpreter on OPT?
Yes, self-employment is permitted on OPT, but it comes with strict requirements. You must be actively engaged in work directly related to your degree, maintain a legitimate business structure, and document your work thoroughly for USCIS compliance. Freelance interpreting through an agency or staffing firm that classifies you as a contractor is generally easier to document than fully independent self-employment and reduces administrative complexity during your OPT period.
What should I do if my OPT is ending and I haven't found an H-1B sponsor?
If your OPT window is closing without an H-1B sponsor, assess whether you qualify for a cap-gap extension if an H-1B petition has been filed on your behalf. If not, options include returning to school to reset OPT eligibility, exploring whether a qualifying employer would pursue an O-1A visa based on exceptional ability, or seeking roles with government contractors who may offer alternative visa pathways. Acting several months before your end date gives you the most options.
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