Interpreters help people communicate when they speak different languages.
The interpreter’s voice is the link.
The interpreter is often the only one present who understands everything that is being said. This is a serious responsibility, calling for trained professionals.
It is both a very rewarding way to serve the community and a very demanding task.
Interpreting deals primarily with spoken language as well as sign language.
It is different from translation, which deals with written language.
Becoming an interpreter
‘Interpreting New Zealand’ recruits people who are very proficient speakers of English and another language. It needs people who are proficient in languages spoken by refugees and new migrants to New Zealand, particularly those from Pacific nations.
To train as an interpreter, you should be (a) an excellent speaker of English and another language (b) generally available during normal working hours (c) be a New Zealand citizen or be a Permanent Residence (d) living in New Zealand for 18 months or more (d) well educated with a broad general knowledge, keen to learn and expand your horizons and (e) be mature and be of high moral integrity.
Introductory in-house courses are run six-monthly. Applications are invited in January and June. Please visit www.interpret.org.nz for details.
Interpreting New Zealand
Interpreting New Zealand is committed to being a good employer and providing work opportunities for members of the refugee and migrant community.
Interpreting New Zealand employs interpreters on a casual basis. Its interpreters serve in hospitals, health centres, social services, courts, tribunals, police, immigration, housing and wider local and central government organisations.
They may also do assignments with business firms, private individuals, embassies and visiting delegations.
Job Opportunities
Work opportunities arise when an interpreter is requested for a language and the interpreter is considered the most appropriate person for that assignment.
Interpreting New Zealand runs a selection of short professional development courses each year. Subjects include medical conditions and treatments, ethics and behaviours, and the functions of enforcement agencies.
If you are interested in a job as an interpreter, please call (09) 3842849
E-mail: info@interpret.org.nz
