DSHS ALTSA Interpreter Access Program Manager

Description

Join Us as the Sign Language Interpreter Access Manager for the Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing

We are excited to offer the opportunity to join the Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) within the DSHS’s Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA) as Sign Language Access Manager. This vital role will enhance accessibility and support the Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and DeafBlind communities in having access to our programs and services.

As the Sign Language Interpreter/Access Manager, you will be ALTSA’s staff interpreter and work closely with ODHH staff and the ALTSA division, providing American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter services. Extra responsibilities will include assisting with policy development and fostering language equity and social justice initiatives.

Your role will be crucial in building professional rapport, fostering trust, and ensuring effective communication takes place with the ALTSA leadership and policy teams. If you are experienced as a professional ASL interpreter and ready to advance your career and take on new responsibilities, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and DeafBlind people across Washington.

This Lacey-based role will utilize a hybrid telework schedule from within the South Puget Sound area. Regular travel throughout the state of WA will be expected. Interpreter appointments are scheduled, but some may require flexibility with short notice.

Some of what you will do

• Provide ASL interpretation for the ODHH Director, ODHH employees, and other ALTSA leadership.
• Develop and implement ASL services and policies, ensuring ADA compliance.
• Collaborate with ALTSA and other DSHS divisions to remove barriers and improve accessibility.
• Act as a consultant and advisor on sign language interpretation access and digital accessibility.
• Assist the Sign Language Interpreter Contracts and Resources Program, streamlining schedules and payments.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and efficient sign language interpreter services statewide.
• Foster a culture of inclusivity and equity, supporting the ODHH mission and strategic goals.
• Assist with analytics and policy language, ensuring ADA compliance and effective implementation.

Who should apply 

• A Graduate from an Interpreter Training Program AND at least 5 years of experience working as a professional interpreter.
• Or, professionals with a human service field bachelor's degree and at least 5 years experience working as a sign language interpreter for multiple Deaf employees.
• Or, a minimum of 9 years experience working as an Interpreter plus is involved in the Deaf and/or Deaf-Blind community and has taken Continued Education Workshops and training in the interpreting field.

Concurrent work experience should include:

Maintaining the highest level of sensitivity and confidentiality in line with interpreting ethics.

Remaining neutral during translation.

Understanding Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and hearing loss access issues and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Strong skills in information analysis and project management.

Proficiency with MS Office Suite and virtual meeting platforms.

Preferred knowledge, skills, and abilities:

National Interpreter Certification (NIC) or state-level credentials; Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI), federally certified interpreters, professional qualified interpreters, and language skilled interpreters are encouraged to apply.

Professional interpreting experience with training in power dynamics, understanding of audism, and active involvement in anti-racism efforts.

Lived experience with the Deaf and/or deafblind community; experience working with diverse Deaf individuals, including professional leaders and community members with regular use of American Sign Language (ASL).

Proficiency in building and cultivating cooperative working relationships with agencies, administration divisions, and diverse internal and external partners.

Ability to develop long-range strategies, influence policy, and direct statewide implementation; manage crises, assess risk, and develop strategic action plans.

Advanced management skills in policy writing, project and process management, budget analysis, and long-term care planning and development.

We partner with people to access support, care, and resources.
This job is classified as Washington Management Service 2. 

Interested?  Please list 3 professional references’ contact information on your application and include your current resume and a cover letter explaining how your knowledge, skills, and abilities qualify you for this role.

Questions? Email bastrjl@dshs.wa.gov or phone Jenny at 360-791-4168, reference 12445. To learn more about DSHS, go to www.dshs.wa.gov.
 
Our Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) mission to Transform Lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s mission that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.  
 
#WeAreHiring #InclusionWorks

Supplemental Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
 
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protect­ed veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.