Senior Assistant Officer: SA Sign Language Interpreters (Post Level 12)
- Contract: 2 Years (3 Positions)
- Job ID: 6375
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Division: Academy for Multilingualism
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus
- Closing Date: 9 March 2026
Job Description
The Senior Assistant Officer: SA Sign Language Interpreters is responsible for providing professional South African Sign Language (SASL) interpreting and language support services to Deaf and hard-of-hearing students and staff within the university environment. The role ensures full access to academic, institutional, and extracurricular activities through effective communication support.
Key Responsibilities
SASL Interpreting Services
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Provide SASL interpretation during lectures, tutorials, assessments, and academic activities.
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Interpret at conferences, seminars, workshops, and university events.
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Adapt interpreting mode (SASL to English and English to SASL) based on context and individual needs.
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Provide interpreting services at institutional events such as graduations, open days, career days, and academic openings.
Academic & Communication Support
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Support Deaf students and staff with written communication where required.
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Ensure seamless communication between Deaf individuals and lecturers, staff, and peers.
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Facilitate participation in clubs, sports teams, residence programmes, and volunteer initiatives.
Community & Professional Contribution
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Assist in the development and documentation of subject-specific SASL terminology.
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Provide interpreting services to the broader Deaf community when capacity allows.
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Mentor and support SASL interpreting interns.
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Report directly to the SASL Coordinator.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following:
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Bachelor’s Degree, B-Tech, or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in South African Sign Language with at least 2 years of SASL interpreting experience in higher education
OR -
Another relevant SASL qualification with at least 6 years of SASL interpreting experience in higher education
Recommendations
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3 years’ relevant experience in higher education teaching and learning
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Honours degree (NQF Level 8) in South African Sign Language
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Experience in SASL terminology development
Required Competencies
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Adaptability and reliability
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Strong planning and organisational skills
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Compliance with rules and professional standards
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Leadership and teamwork abilities
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Sensitivity to the needs of Deaf individuals
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MS Office proficiency
Salary
Annual package: R388 426.59 – R487 479.38 (depending on qualifications and experience)
Includes benefits such as pension, medical aid, housing allowance, leave, service bonus, and study benefits (subject to conditions).