Job Description

Spanish Interpreter

The New York County District Attorney's Office (DANY) has an immediate opening for a Spanish-English Interpreter in its Language Services Unit in Support Services. The Language Services Unit provides interpretation, transcription, and translation services for witnesses, victims, and defendants at DANY for the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases. Under supervision, the Spanish Interpreter is responsible for interpreting and translating bi-directionally between Spanish and English and producing accurate transcriptions/translations. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Provide consecutive and simultaneous interpretation bi-directionally between English and Spanish telephonically, via video remote, and in-person as required at interviews, Grand Jury presentations, community presentations, among others, both onsite and offsite, for which mature and tactful behavior is required.
• Translate a variety of materials in both language directions, including but not limited to legal documents, personal statements, press releases, general forms/letters, etc.
• Transcribe and translate audio and video recordings using industry related equipment and software to produce accurate transcriptions and translations such as: transcription foot pedal and multi-media players such as VLC and Audacity; computer applications such as Microsoft Word and PowerPoint as well as Adobe; and/or computer-assisted translation tools.
• Proofread translations and transcriptions. Perform effective research on terminology as needed.
• Render court testimony on translations and transcriptions as needed.
• Process requests for language services and update Unit database.
• Perform related tasks as necessary.
• Adhere to all DANY employee policies as well as Unit standards and best practices related to interpretation and translations.

In addition to the Minimum Qualification Requirements, all candidates must possess the following:

• Level 1 - bachelor's degree, preferably in translation and interpretation. Must provide proof of degree.
• Level 2 - bachelor's degree, preferably in translation and interpretation; two (2) years of experience in general or legal translation and/or interpretation*; and has passed an interpretation examination administered by the State or equivalent. Must provide proof of degree, experience, and achievement of a passing score on interpretation examination. *Master's degree in translation and/or interpretation can be substituted for years of experience.

Preferred Requirements/Skills:

• Minimum two (2) years of experience in general or legal translation and/or interpretation.
• Possess court interpreter certification.
• Possess fluency in Spanish and English both oral and written.
• Possess knowledge of transcription and translation techniques and be able to apply them.
• Possess a high-level of proficiency using Microsoft Word and PowerPoint as well as Adobe.
• Possess experience using multi-media players such as VLC and Audacity.
• Be able to work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Be able to perform effective research on terminology.
• Possess excellent customer service skills.
• Possess some experience working with witnesses, victims, and defendants.
• Possess some experience interpreting, transcribing, and translating in a legal setting.
• Be able to interact professionally, ethically, respectfully, and appropriately at all times.
• Be adept at cultural and linguistic differences.
• Be able to remain neutral and impartial when providing interpretation services.
• Be able to maintain confidentiality.
• Possess exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills required.
• Be a team-player and be able to work well under pressure to meet specific deadlines.
• Be detail oriented, self-motivated, and able to multi-task.
• Be able to accept feedback on interpretation and translation services provided.

How to Apply: Apply with a Cover Letter and Resume

Additional Information:

• Current office employees: To be eligible for a transfer or promotion, staff must have already served at least one (1) year in their current unit/bureau/department and be in good standing. In addition, must meet the minimum and additional qualifications of the position.
• Looking for candidates that could commit to one (1) year to the hiring Unit.
• Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness: As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education's website at

Residency Requirement: City Residency is not required for this position.

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

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