Apprenticeship

We are excited to share that the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and the Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards has approved the first American Sign Language Interpreting apprenticeship program in the state of Wisconsin under Professional Interpreting Enterprise (PIE), sponsor #28617. We look forward to supporting the interpreting field with this exciting new opportunity.

Position Description: The apprenticeship is a 13 month salaried and benefited position that requires coursework alongside on-the-job mentoring and skill development. The goal of the apprenticeship is for the apprentice to achieve advanced certification in the field of sign language interpreting and an opportunity for a staff position at the completion of the apprenticeship. 

  • Duration/Usual Hours Per Week:  Full-Time, 32 to 40 Hours Per Week
  • Pay: $23.08 Per Hour to $35.00 Per Hour. $35/hour is an approximation based on level of certification received after the apprentice graduates. During the apprenticeship, the apprentice will be salaried. After graduation and upon potential hiring as an employee, the apprentice will be hourly.
  • Shift/Work Days: The schedule will be created to fit the company/consumer needs and the apprentice’s needs as well. Most weeks will be M-F 9a-5p with some exceptions. With the nature of our work as interpreters we are “on call” 24 hours/7 days a week. There is a possibility of nights/weekends and then allowing comp day for those jobs taking/worked after the standard hours of 9a-5p CST.

Number of Openings:     1

Minimum Requirements:

  • Education: Proof of graduation/completion from a high school or equivalent, an associate’s, bachelor’s or an alternate pathways program set forth by RID and the state of WI.
  • Professional Licenses / Certifications:  Able to provide proof of hearing or Deaf Intermediate Department of Safety and Public Services WI licensure (one year waiver/exemption may need to be requested to the state)
  • Vehicle: Required
  • Drivers License Type: Class D – Regular (Auto, Light Truck, Moped) Required
  • Age: Proof of age-18 years or older
  • Physically able to perform the work with reasonable accommodations and without
    hazard to self or others
  • Able to stoop, bend, walk and stand for a minimum of 30 minutes at a time
  • Authorized to work lawfully in the United States
  • Willing to undergo a background check
  • Able to provide three non-relative references
  • Required to complete drug and alcohol testing at the time of selection as an apprentice
  • Complete a TB screen and have all immunizations up to date at time of selection as
    an apprentice
  • Background Check Required

Duties and Responsibilities of Job:

  • Interpret from English to American Sign Language, American Sign Language to English or translate written text from one language into another.
  • Perform Essential Physical Abilities
  • Perform Essential Cognitive Abilities
  • Essential Cultural and Linguistic Abilities
  • Interpret using knowledge of the structure and content of American Sign Language and English
  • Watch, read and understand information and ideas presented through the use of American Sign Language and English
  • Interpret information and ideas through different means and modes so others will understand
  • Possess Essential Professional Attributes
  • Adapt and apply the ethical standards as set by Registry Interpreters for the Deaf
  • Perform Local Operational Work Processes distinctive to the Employer
  • Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, Vision Insurance, Domestic Partner Coverage
  • Leave and Holidays: Sick Leave, Personal Leave, Vacation, Paid Holidays
  • Retirement & Financial: Retirement, 401K Plan
  • Education and Training: Paid Training, Tuition Reimbursement
  • Comments: All insurance will be discussed, explained and presented during the interview and onboarding process, upon being chosen as an apprentice.

Timeline:

April 1, 2024 – Position description and application will be available on this page

April 19, 2024 – Applications or interest submission closing date

May 2, 2024 – Interviews will be completed

May 6-10, 2024 – Notification of offer will be sent

June – August 2024 – PIE will work on paperwork and approvals

August 1, 2024 – Anticipated apprenticeship start date.