Lead Interpreter/Translator - Spanish

Job ID:

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

This paragraph summarizes the general nature, level and purpose of the job.

The Lead Medical Interpreter/Translator is responsible for organizing and overseeing the daily work activities of the department. Ensures the work flow is managed appropriately. Is partially accountable for the work of others. Identifies and resolves complex problems within the Interpreter Services team and acts as a resource for the team. Applies expert knowledge to provide guidance to staff to ensure standard methods are used and work quality is consistent. Conducts simple and complex medical and general interpreting/translating for the patient care staff and for patients and their families. Works on department initiatives that support departmental goals and conceptualizes new programs at LPCHS. Mentors other Medical Interpreter/Translators and promotes professionalism within the department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patient rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.

Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the hospital's policies and procedures, including its Service Standards and its Code of Conduct.

* Is partially accountable for work product of others. Has the authority to work as group leader. Elements of direct control over other positions including assisting in the training of new staff members, communicating instructions, assigning work to others, monitoring progress and work flow, checking work for timeliness and accuracy or completeness, establishing work standards, scheduling work, and providing input into supervisor's actions, including performance appraisals.
* Performs medical interpretation for patients and their families in consecutive and sight translation modalities in every area of the hospital and clinics including fast-paced and emotionally taxing situations; such as care conference, poor prognosis, and end-of-life discussions, short and long teaching sessions, rounds.
* Performs medical translation for patients and their families. Independently translates, edits and proofreads simple After Visit Summaries in an accurate, clear and timely manner (e.g., maternity, well baby, basic surgery procedures, etc.). Independently, translates, edits and proofreads complex After Visit Summaries in an accurate, clear and timely manner. (e.g., correspondence, Transplant, Oncology, medical procedures and instructions, etc., and other pertinent documents as necessary.)
* Connects patients and families to hospital resources, as needed.

Shares observations with medical staff, clinical social workers, patient experience staff, chaplains, and ancillary staff about potential patient's needs to ensure quality patient care.

* Responds to Code emergency requests, confirms language preference, and provides interpretation for crisis interventions as necessary.
* May arrange interpretation for all languages for patients and families including: outside agencies, phone interpretation, spoken and sign language services, as needed

Participates in leadership activities in the department, which may include but not limited to: the Interpreter Services Professional Practice Council, the Buddy Program and/or the Internship Program.

* Assists with basic linguistic and advanced cultural brokering as needed, including non-verbal cues, hospital culture, and timing.
* Proficiently and independently implements principles of advocacy to support patient safety and autonomy with diplomacy and collaboration.
* Participates in Interpreter Services Professional Practice Council.
* Provides in-services and other presentations on behalf of the Department. Represents the Interpreter Services department on hospital-wide committees or other unit committees.
* Conducts ongoing review and development of department policies and procedures.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities as well as possession of any required licenses or certifications is qualifying.

Education: Master's degree in translation and interpretation
Experience: One (1) year of hospital experience

OR

Education: Bachelor's degree in translation and interpretation
Experience: Three (3) year of hospital experience

OR

Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
Experience: Four (4) years of interpreting and hospital experience.

License/Certification:

• Health Care Interpreters (CHI) by Certification Commission for Health Care Interpreters (CHI) within 548 days
• or
• Certification for Medical Interpreters (CMI) by National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (CMI) within 548 days of hire

KNOWLEDGE

These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to perform successfully the essential functions of the job and are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education or licensure/certification.

* Native or near-native ability in verbal and written communications in both English and non-English working language.
* Advanced Knowledge of Medical Terminology.
* Ability to perform consecutive and simultaneous interpretation, as well as sight translation.
* Advanced knowledge of cultural, health literacy and perceptual factors that may affect patient treatment and communication.
* Ability to establish and maintain excellent client relationships, exhibit exemplary interpersonal skills and exercise sound judgment and professionalism in business and personnel matters.
* Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
* Ability to remain calm under pressure and apply sound judgment.
* Ability to work well with individuals at all levels of the organization.
* Ability to work in a fast paced environment.
* Ability to engage patients and families who are in crises
* Ability to mediate and resolve complex problems and issues.
* Ability to provide leadership and influence others.
* Ability to work effectively both as a team player and leader.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The Physical Requirements and Working Conditions in which the job is typically performed are available from the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

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Additional Information

Pay Range
Compensation is based on the level and requirements of the role.
Salary within our ranges may also be determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, location, and abilities, as required by the role, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Typically, new team members join at the minimum to mid salary range.
Minimum to Midpoint Range (Hourly): $44.59 to $50.04