We surveyed 463 american sign language interpreters to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical american sign language interpreter. Here are the results.

How much intelligence is required as an american sign language interpreter?

Low

High

Working as an american sign language interpreter typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.

Can I learn to become an american sign language interpreter?

Intrinsic Talent

Acquired Talent

A career as an american sign language interpreter typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.

Is it easy to get a job as an american sign language interpreter?

Easy

Hard

It’s typically difficult to find a job as an american sign language interpreter. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for american sign language interpreters.

Info

Do american sign language interpreters work full-time or part-time?

47% of american sign language interpreters work in full-time roles while 53% work part-time.

Is being an american sign language interpreter stressful?

Low

High

American sign language interpreters tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.

Is being organized important as an american sign language interpreter?

Low

High

Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being an american sign language interpreter.

How competitive is the workplace for american sign language interpreters?

Low

High

American sign language interpreters see mild competition in their workplace.

Does being an american sign language interpreter require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?

Low

High

Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for american sign language interpreters.

Are american sign language interpreters allowed to express themselves creatively?

Low

High

American sign language interpreters are afforded a certain level of ability to express themselves creatively, compared to other careers.

Do american sign language interpreters have control over the direction of their work?

Low

High

While sometimes the direction is set, occasionally american sign language interpreters will have some flexibility over the direction of their work.

Is being an american sign language interpreter physically demanding?

Low

High

Being an american sign language interpreter may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.

Are american sign language interpreters exposed to a wide variety of work?

Low

High

While sometimes repetitive, american sign language interpreters tend to have opportunities for variety in their work.

Does being an american sign language interpreter require attention to detail?

Low

High

Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as an american sign language interpreter.

Does being a good american sign language interpreter require compassion and empathy?

Low

High

Being compassionate and empathetic is considered helpful to those looking to pursue careers as american sign language interpreters.