Become a sign language interpreter
Sign language interpreters are specialists in communication between Deaf and hearing people. They interpret spoken language into sign language and sign language into spoken language. Learn how to become a sign language interpreter and what skills, training and experience are required.
On this page
- Understanding sign language interpretation
- Sign languages used by the Government of Canada
- How to become a sign language interpreter
- Working as a sign language interpreter at the Translation Bureau
- Providing sign language interpretation services as a contractor
- Related links
Understanding sign language interpretation
Sign language is generally provided simultaneously, that is, the interpreter immediately repeats what is said in sign language or out loud.
The interpreter may work:
- at the event
- remotely from a professional studio or their home.
Skills and qualifications required
To successfully carry out their work, sign language interpreters must:
- have excellent skills in their working languages
- have good preparation and organizational skills
- be able to concentrate to understand what is being said and simultaneously repeat it in the target language
- remain calm under pressure
- have the confidence needed to express themselves in front of other people
Sign languages used by the Government of Canada
Many sign languages are used around the world. In Parliament and at the Government of Canada, the main sign languages used are:
- American Sign Language
- Langue des signes québécoise (Quebec Sign Language)
How to become a sign language interpreter
Many academic institutions across Canada offer programs of study in sign language interpretation.
To learn more, visit Sign languages - Interpreter training and resources for professionals at the Language Portal of Canada.
Working as a sign language interpreter at the Translation Bureau
To work as a sign language interpreter at the Translation Bureau, you must:
- pass its accreditation exam
- hold at least a college diploma
- Have a degree in sign language interpretation
Job opportunities as a sign language interpreter at the Translation Bureau are posted as needed on the Government of Canada Jobs page.
Providing sign language interpretation services as a contractor
The Translation Bureau works with private-sector suppliers for part of the sign language interpretation services it provides to Parliament and the Government of Canada. To learn about eligibility criteria and how to qualify to provide your sign language interpretation services as a service provider, visit Offering your interpretation services in sign languages.