Prospective Interpreters FAQ:
Question 1: I would like to work for your agency as an interpreter. How should I go about applying?
The first step to applying to work as an independent contractor is to send your resume to our office, making sure to include any past experience in interpreting, including MDH roster number, and any specialized training or experience, especially in the medical or educational field. Please send us your resume through our form, by e-mail at info@multilingualword.com or by faxing to 952-922-4344. If, after reviewing your qualifications, we would like to invite you in for an interview, our coordinator will contact you. We appreciate your interest in being a part of our team!
Question 2: I currently work with other interpreting agencies, can I still apply to work for your company?
All of our interpreters are independent contractors and are thus free to work for other agencies. We do not interfere with your freedom to make a living in this growing profession and encourage you to be available for as much work as you choose.
Question 3: How many cases can I expect to get if I work for your agency?
Since this is a very competitive market, few interpreters except hospital staff are usually employed full-time in this arena. We issue interpreting cases based upon volume of requests we receive from our clients, as such it is difficult to give an estimate. We work with a pool of independent contractors, and give out cases based upon interpreters’ availability and qualifications.
Question 4: Where are the facilities located that I will be traveling to for interpreting?
We are contracted with hospitals, clinics and schools throughout the metro area and surrounding suburbs including some locations outside of the Metro area. However, we will always make an effort match the interpreter’s location with a facility close to them to ensure convenience for the interpreter and prompt arrival for the client.
Question 5: What insurance companies can you bill?
At this time we do not have contracts with any insurance providers.
Question 6: Can I take assignments if I have not had an interpreter training program?
Most clients, especially in the medical field, require completion of at least a 40-hour training program to refine your interpreting knowledge and skills. Depending on the rarity of the language you interpret, you may be able to interpret in certain circumstances without this training. Nonetheless, we strongly recommend that you arrange to attend one of these courses. Please see our resources page for further details.
Question 7: What is the Minnesota Department of Health Roster of Interpreters?
The Roster lists spoken languages, persons available to interpret those languages, health care subjects and specialty health care settings. By using a search tool in the Roster, anyone can view a list of persons available to interpret a language spoken by a patient in a health care setting. Please see our resources page for a link to the MDH Roster.