Job Description

Required License: must have ISBE Educational Sign Language Interpreter Approval

Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency that provides special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture. 

The Sign Language Interpreter works 177 days per year for 7 hours daily and earns $29.75-$53.79 per hour , depending on experience. 

A Sign Language Interpreter in a K-12 school setting facilitates communication between deaf and hard-of-hearing students and others by interpreting and transliterating spoken material in general and special education environments.

Sign Language Interpreter Job Duties

Provide sign language interpretation: Facilitate communication between students who are deaf or hard of hearing and others within the school environment, including teachers, peers, and staff.

• Assist in educational instruction: Support classroom activities by interpreting lessons, discussions, and group interactions, ensuring equal access to the curriculum for students who use sign language.

• Collaborate with staff and specialists: Work closely with teachers, special education coordinators, and other school staff to adapt instructional materials and ensure student needs are met.

• Promote inclusive learning environments: Help create an environment that encourages participation from students who are deaf or hard of hearing, fostering an inclusive classroom culture.

• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism: Ensure that all interpreted communication adheres to ethical standards of confidentiality, respecting the privacy of students and staff.

• Engage in ongoing professional development: Participate in workshops and training sessions to stay updated on advances in sign language interpretation and educational support.

Sign Language Interpreter Benefits:

• Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance : Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
• Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: As a local governmental agency, NIA employees who are eligible participate in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement.
• Learn more about IMRF at (
• Additional Retirement Savings Options: NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.
• Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.
• Telemedicine: Access to 1800 MD telemedicine services at no cost.
• Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.
• Summers Off with Year-Round Pay  
• $3,000 Signing Bonus
• Expert Feedback and Evaluation : Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise
• Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
• Ongoing Professional Development : Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
• Collaborative Environment : Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues
• Regular 1:1 Check-Ins : Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings
• Mission-Driven : We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day.
• Leadership in Education : Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.
• Innovation : We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.
• Employee-Focused : We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.
• Quality of Life : Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and easy access to Chicago.

Sign Language Interpreter Qualifications:

• Must meet Illinois State Board of Education requirements for Educational Sign Language Interpreter Approval
• Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment, including computers and specialized software applications like Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

Compensation details: 29.75-53.79 Hourly Wage

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