High Desert ESD celebrates all cultures and languages and is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regards to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Language Access Program Manager

40 hours/week, 228 day contract (pro-rated for remainder of 2024-25)

Start date:  1/13/2025 or as soon as possible

Location: High Desert Regional Education Center - Redmond

Benefits include family insurance package, vacation, paid sick leave and holidays, generous PERS contribution

Salary Range:  $79,000-$85,000/year, depending on experience and education

This position is open until filled. Screening of applications to take place January 6, 2025. 

Employee Value Statement:

At the heart of the breathtaking landscapes of Central Oregon, where snow-capped mountains meet lush forests and vibrant communities, lies an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. The High Desert ESD believes that every student, educator, and community member deserves a voice and a place to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. Our commitment to equity and inclusion is woven into everything we do, from the programs we develop to the partnerships we cultivate. We strive to create a culture where diverse perspectives are valued and where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Position Summary: 

The coordinator proofreads translations and screens potential interpreters/translators to ensure academic proficiency in both, English and 2nd language.  The coordinator schedules and assigns appropriate interpreters and translations for requests made by district or program. The coordinator acts as the resource person for language interpreters and language translators regarding cultural issues and use of appropriate academic language. Implements and provides professional development through an ongoing training for interpreters. Observes interpreters, teachers and coaches to improve skills. The coordinator works in collaboration with regional, ESD and district personnel.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Perform all duties of Language Interpreter/Translator I and II as appropriate
• Coordinate meetings and be prompt for any scheduled meetings
• Provide technical assistance to interpreters/translators
• Work with HR to bring on interpreters and translators
• Assist in the evaluation assessment of interpreter/translators skills
• Plan and implement in-service training
• Must be able to interpret/translate conversation and written material in exactly the same way it was intended
• Maintain a non-judgmental attitude when working with others whose values and beliefs may be in direct contrast to each other 
• Create and maintain positive relationships with all district partners
• Must be fluent in academic Spanish and English
• Must be honest and self-disciplined in the interpreting/translating process
• Must be knowledgeable of the culture differences and similarities in Language One and Language Two
• Must agree to and abide by policies and procedures
• Represent the program with a courteous, helpful, and professional attitude toward all others involved
• Communicate appropriately and regularly through use of email, phone, and in-person meetings
• Ability to respect and maintain confidential information in all situations
• Continue to improve skills through professional development opportunities
• Fulfill other related duties as assigned
• Exhibit regular attendance, as demonstrated by not more than an average of one day per month absent unless on a protected statutory leave
• Be punctual and present for all required duties

Minimum Qualifications: 

There is a minimum requirement of a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent. Must be academically proficient in reading, writing, understanding, and conversing in both English and Spanish.  A minimum of two years experience in interpreting and translating required.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Demonstrated knowledge of code of ethics is also a requirement. Teaching/presenter experience is preferred. Needs to have the administrative skills to manage, organize and coordinate staff, budget and resources.  This position requires considerable knowledge of the American and Latin cultures. This job requires the ability to maintain a patient, positive, and persistent attitude and the ability to work successfully and professionally in a team setting. This position requires skills in computer programs such as PDF, Word, Excel, Publisher, Google docs.  Must have access to reliable transportation, flexible schedule and consistent attendance are required. 

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.  

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to:  talk, hear, walk frequently, sit, stand, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, use hand dexterity for computer work, handle items, reach with hand and arms, lift and/or move up to 30 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds and see close and at a distance, have peripheral vision and the ability to adjust focus.  Workloads are heavy and timelines may be unreasonably short at times.  Requests and issues are often received which require immediate attention and conflict with other priorities.  

Terms of Employment   Salary, benefits, and vacation are established by policy and contract.