There is no doubt that as the US becomes more diverse and the populations of color swell more interpreters will be needed to fill the LEP gap. Now, if you want to became an interpreter you must first seek out training at a college in the field of Human Services or locate an interpreter training program of 60 hours or more in you geographic area. Once you have completed this training you can now seek opportunities as a qualified medical interpreter, community interpreter, etc.
Your first source of employement may be a local hospital. This is the best place for you to attain an almost expert level of experience. However, do not become comformed. Hospitals are amoung the lowest paying organizations in the market and most positions are per diem. This means that you will not work more than 32 hours per week, and you will not receive benefits, such as, vacation pay, health insurance, sick days and alike.
Your best bet to increase your income as an interpreter will be to market yourself to many hospitals, clinics, doctors offices, insurance companies, lawyers office, as so forth. There is an increasing tendency for interpreters to gain experience then go on to freelance or even organize themselves as a LLC, limited liability company. This is because there are many tax incentives and credibilty incentives. Not only, will you increase your earnings you will increase your flexibility, and gain more clients.
The average hourly pay nationally for a medical interpreter is $21.00. Hospitals pay an average of $18.00 per hour. Moreeover, the average earnings for a freelance or self employed interpreter is $50.00 per hour. You can earn more. A colleague in the industry earned $126,000 last year. If this isn't an incentive, what is?
If you would like more information on becoming a certified medical interpreter please contact me at, 6178809158, ask for Eduardo. I'll be happy to assist you.
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