inABLE.org is a nonprofit organization based in Nairobi, Kenya, and Washington, DC, with a mission to empower Persons With Disabilities through technology.
Position Overview
The Sign Language Interpreter supports the full participation of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HoH) youth, stakeholders, and staff across inABLE initiatives. The role is responsible for interpreting spoken language into Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) and translating KSL into spoken English/Swahili while maintaining meaning, tone, and intent. This position requires excellent linguistic proficiency, cultural competency within the Deaf community, and the ability to interpret in dynamic, fast-paced settings.
Key Responsibilities:
- Interpret spoken communication into KSL and voice-interpret for Deaf/HoH participants without altering meaning or intent.
- Provide real-time interpretation during meetings, staff engagements, workshops, trainings, interviews, and public events.
- Offer sign language services across inABLE programs including the Inclusive Africa Program and the Unlocking Opportunities pipeline activities.
- Coordinate sign language interpretation during national and regional convenings, including the Inclusive Africa Conference.
- Work closely with program and events teams to plan interpreter resourcing for multi-session trainings and large-scale gatherings.
- Maintain confidentiality, professional ethics, and neutrality at all times in line with inABLE values.
- Support development of sign-inclusive communication environments, including visual aids, presentations, and accessible digital content where required.
- Promote awareness of Kenyan Sign Language usage internally to enhance cross-team inclusivity.
- Stay updated on evolving interpreting techniques, Deaf culture, accessibility standards, and emerging technologies through continuous professional development.
Qualifications, Experience & Skills:
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience as a Sign Language Interpreter (SLI).
- Diploma in Communication, Marketing, Education, Linguistics, Social Sciences, or related field, plus graduation from an accredited Interpreter Training Program (ITP).
- Certified Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) Interpreter by a recognized national body or association.
- Strong command of KSL, English, and Swahili, with proven ability to accurately interpret spoken-to-sign and sign-to-voice in diverse settings.
- Demonstrated understanding of Deaf culture, accessibility inclusion values, and etiquette when interpreting for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.
- Broad workplace vocabulary across technical, programmatic, and HR contexts to ensure seamless communication during meetings, trainings, and professional engagements.
- Outstanding interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills with both Deaf and hearing stakeholders.
- Ability to manage dynamic schedules, travel for assignments, and work in fast-paced, multi-session environments.
- Strong listening skills, information retention, analytical thinking, and continuous learning orientation.
- Proven team player with flexibility to work collaboratively with fellow interpreters and program teams.
- Upholds professional confidentiality, ethics, impartiality, and accuracy in all interpretation engagements.
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