If you’re looking for a career that blends language skills, cultural connection, and real-world impact, interpreting might be the path for you. Whether you’re drawn to American Sign Language (ASL) or bilingual interpretation in Spanish, this field offers both meaning and demand.
At Spot On Interpreting, we proudly work with professional interpreters across Los Angeles, San Diego, New York, and beyond—many of whom followed very different paths into this rewarding profession.
Step 1: Choose a Language and Specialization
The first step is deciding which language(s) you want to work in. Common choices include:
- ASL interpreting, often used in medical, legal, and educational settings
- Spanish interpretation, used in courts, hospitals, and social services
- Community or conference interpretation for other spoken languages
Once you know your focus, consider which settings interest you most—healthcare, law, schools, or government services.
Step 2: Get Proper Training and Certification
Professional interpreters typically need:
- Fluency in both languages (including cultural fluency)
- Formal training through interpreter education programs
- Certifications such as:
- RID Certification for ASL
- Court or Medical Interpreter Certification for Spanish
In places like Las Vegas, San Francisco, and Anaheim, local community colleges and universities offer interpreter training programs.
Step 3: Develop Real-World Skills
Beyond technical skills, great interpreters are:
- Emotionally intelligent
- Excellent listeners
- Calm under pressure
- Ethical and discreet
Experience helps. Many interpreters begin by volunteering or taking freelance jobs, then build up to full-time careers through agencies like ours.
Step 4: Join a Network That Supports You
At Spot On Interpreting, we connect interpreters with meaningful opportunities in cities like Sacramento, Long Beach, and Washington D.C.. We provide support, fair pay, and ongoing training—because we believe quality interpreters deserve quality treatment.
📩 Interested in joining our team? Contact us to learn more about interpreter opportunities.
