Interpreting & Deaf Services Community Engagement Specialist

Description

The Interpreter Development & Community Engagement Specialist is responsible for supporting Pine Tree Society in creating more accessible and equitable communities for the Deaf Community.  

The position is responsible for advancing the professional growth, ethical practice, and community engagement of interpreters affiliated with Pine Tree Society’s Interpreting Services. The position will be responsible for planning, collaborating and facilitating Pine Tree Society’s innovative programming that provides barrier-free access to summer camp for the Deaf Community. This position plays a key role in mentoring interpreters, coordinating professional development initiatives, planning and coordinating experiences and programming for members of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community, and fostering meaningful connections with the Deaf and interpreting communities.

This position is designed for an individual who demonstrates leadership, professional excellence, and a deep commitment to supporting the next generation of interpreters and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community through ongoing learning, collaboration, and innovation.

Note this is a short-term (six-month), grant-funded position that could turn into a long-term position 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

A. Professional Development and Mentorship

• Develop and implement mentoring initiatives that promote skill-building, ethical reasoning, and self-confidence among interpreters.
• Facilitate ongoing learning opportunities, including workshops, study groups, and peer discussions focused on interpreting in varied settings such as medical, mental health, legal, educational, and community environments.
• Support interpreters in identifying individual growth goals and tracking their progress toward certification or specialized credentials.
• Provide one-on-one or group mentoring sessions tailored to the professional development needs of staff and contract interpreters.
• Encourage interpreters to stay current with evolving sign language usage, cultural trends, and professional resources.

B. Program Oversight and Strategic Planning

• Plan and facilitate Pine Tree Society Programming for Deaf Community, including Camp Dirigo, Camp Discover, and Sign Tree Camp and Conference. Effectively collaborate with Pine Tree Society leaders to provide excellent programming.
• Assisting teams to recruit and identify campers for each program.
• Attending programs and events as a representative for the various camps.
• Being an active member of the planning teams for Camp Dirgo, Camp Discover and Sign Tree Camp.
• Stay abreast of current regulations, legislation, and trends affecting the interpreting profession.
• Create and maintain professional resources for interpreters, including continuing education materials, ethical case studies, and reference tools.

C. Community Engagement and Partnerships

• Serve as a liaison between Pine Tree Society, the Deaf community, and the professional interpreting field.
• Strengthen relationships with community partners, advocacy groups, and educational institutions to enhance collaboration and visibility.
• Represent Pine Tree Society at community events, conferences, and professional forums to promote inclusive communication and interpreter engagement.
• Maintain a strong presence in relevant social media and professional networks to stay connected with current discussions and opportunities in the field.
• Foster a sense of belonging and collaboration within Maine’s interpreting and Deaf communities.

D. Continuous Learning and Professional Involvement

• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by:
  • Participating in in-service trainings and workshops.
  • Attending educational conferences and courses related to interpreting and community engagement.
  • Reading professional literature and engaging in team discussions to exchange best practices.
• Model ongoing professional development and ethical leadership to inspire others in the interpreting community.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Certification: RID/NAD Certified Interpreter required.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of interpreting experience, including exposure to diverse settings (medical, mental health, legal, community, educational).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in interpreting, linguistics, Deaf studies, or a related field preferred.
• Skills and Attributes:
  • Proven mentorship and leadership skills.
  • Deep understanding of Deaf culture and ASL linguistic development.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and presentation abilities.
  • Ability to collect and analyze data to inform program evaluation.
  • Proficiency in current interpreting technologies and platforms.
• Preferred Credentials: Additional qualifications such as Legal Qualified, QMHI, BEI Master, or Specialty Certifications.

Core Competencies

• Leadership: Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and the ability to inspire others.
• Cultural Competence: Values diversity, promotes inclusivity, and builds trust  across communities.
• Strategic Thinking: Aligns professional development initiatives with organizational goals.
• Collaboration: Works effectively within cross-functional teams and community partnerships.
• Accountability: Follows through on commitments and maintains accurate, transparent reporting.

Work Environment

• This is a Part-Time, Interim position.
• Hybrid work flexibility, with expectations for onsite engagement at Pine Tree Society offices and community events.
• Requires occasional evening or weekend availability to attend professional or community events. 
• Ability to attend and lead summer camps for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population: Camp Dirigo, Camp Discover, and Sign Tree Camp & Conference
• Travel within Maine as needed for workshops, trainings, and outreach.

Pay

$5,000-$7,500 stipend depending on final contract and experience.

Location

Hybrid opportunity is available with the main office location in Scarborough, Maine with travel required to Rome, Maine.

About Pine Tree Society 

Since 1936, Pine Tree Society has been proudly supporting Mainers with disabilities breakdown barriers and lead active, socially connected lives. Our services include Pine Tree Camp, two Community Support Programs, Case Management Services, Sign Language Interpreting, Audiology, Speech/Language Services, and our Early Learning Center.