SIGN-LANGUAGE ASSISTANT

Accountability: Support Staff Coordinator

FLSA Status: Part-time, non-exempt

Summary:

The Sign-Language Assistant is responsible for providing sign language interpretation for M-NASR’s youth and adult participants who are deaf/hard of hearing in order to enable equal access to all communication at programs. The Sign-Language Assistant also assists with the organization, implementation, and evaluation of recreation programs for children and adults with disabilities.

The position is part-time and may include morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend hours.

Qualifications:

Must be 16 years of age or older. Must have strong sign language interpreting skills and a general knowledge of Deaf culture. Preference to applicants that have or are working towards an American Sign Language certification/s. Must be highly motivated and enthusiastic in order to provide quality experiences for our participants.

Must pass a criminal background check by the state of Illinois. Transportation to and from M-NASR programs is the responsibility of the part-time staff.

Essential Functions (including, but not limited to):

1. Provide access to all communication at recreation programs for participants who are deaf/hard of hearing, including communication between other participants, staff and community members. Communication may include but is not limited to interpreting verbal safety information, instructions for activities and casual socialization as well as translation of written information.

2. Act as an advocate for participants who are deaf/hard of hearing by educating other staff, participants and community members about cultural differences and enabling individuals’ full participation in activities.

3. Supervision of individuals with disabilities, including implementing behavior management plans and if certified, Handle with Care.

4. Maintain open communication with the Support Staff Coordinator, program leaders and other staff with information concerning programming, families, group home staff and/or participants.

5. Active and enthusiastic participation in all activities.

6. Assist participants with self-help and life-skills, when necessary. 

7. Gather, load, transport and set up equipment.

8. Transfer and/or push individuals in wheelchairs.

9. Attend mandatory orientations.

10. Any other assigned duties needed to help support our Vision and fulfill our Mission.

Marginal Functions:

1. To maintain the program facilities in a neat and orderly manner.

2. Review and complete feedback forms, documentation, and other materials as needed, in a timely manner.

3. Maintain own schedule and submit electronic timesheets in a timely manner, as guided by the annual payroll schedule

Safety Considerations:

1. Staff will comply with all M-NASR Safety Policies and Procedures and carry out all tasks in a safe manner.

2. Attendance at various safety in-service training will be required.

Psychological Considerations:

1. Must be able to respond to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

2. Must be able to work under stressful conditions.

3. Must be able to maintain a professional attitude with other staff, with participant family members, and with individuals in the community.

Physiological Considerations:

1. Must be able to lift and transfer participants or equipment safely.

Cognitive Considerations:

1. Must be able to demonstrate good safety awareness and judgment.

2. Must be able to follow directions, policies, and procedures.

3. Must be able to communicate effectively.

Environmental Considerations:

1. May be exposed to hazardous vegetation (i.e. poison ivy, etc.) during activities.

2. May be exposed to extreme weather conditions (i.e. rain, snow, heat, etc.)

Essential Physical Capabilities:

1. Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, bending, stooping, walking, and running.

2. Ability to closely supervise individuals with disabilities.

3. Lifting, pushing, pulling and carrying items weighing 20-50 pounds with mechanical 

    assistance or team lift.