Sign Language Assistant
しゅわきょうりょくいん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that interprets between Japanese Sign Language and spoken Japanese between hearing-impaired individuals and those with normal hearing to facilitate smooth communication.
Description
Sign Language Assistants are professionals who interpret between Japanese Sign Language and spoken language between hearing-impaired individuals and those with normal hearing to facilitate smooth communication. They work in various settings such as medical institutions, government offices, courts, educational sites, and welfare facilities, taking on the role of accurately and appropriately conveying the information needed by users. In addition to real-time simultaneous or consecutive interpretation, they are required to have the ability to understand users' backgrounds and cultural elements and select expressions that suit the atmosphere of the situation. Beyond technical skills, knowledge and consideration for hearing impairment, building trust relationships, teamwork, and a high sense of ethics are essential.
Future Outlook
With the promotion of inclusive society and improvements in legal frameworks, demand for sign language interpretation is increasing. The diversification of work styles through the spread of remote interpretation and ICT tools is expected to expand opportunities for professionals.
Personality Traits
Able to respond flexibly / Calm / Empathetic / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Contracted / Freelance / Full-time / Part-time / Volunteer
Career Path
Sign Language Volunteer → Junior Sign Language Assistant → Senior Sign Language Assistant → Training Instructor/Trainer → Welfare Organization Manager
Required Skills
Cultural Knowledge / Hearing Impairment Understanding / Japanese Sign Language / Simultaneous Interpretation
Recommended Skills
Cross-cultural Understanding / ICT Tool Utilization / Stress Management / Summary Notetaking Skills
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because it is necessary to change expression methods according to the situation and users. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To accurately convey subtle differences in expressions. |
| Communication Skills | High-level communication skills are required for precise interpretation. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because there is a constant need to learn new technical terms and expressions. |
| Problem Solving | To immediately select appropriate expressions and prevent misunderstandings. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because there is little mathematical work. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly seated work with low physical burden. |
Related Qualifications
- Japan Sign Language Interpreter
- Sign Language Interpreter Proficiency Test Levels 1-2
Aliases
- Sign Language Interpreter
- サインランゲージインタープリター
Related Jobs
- Simultaneous Interpreter
- Summary Notetaker
- Translator