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    Tuesday, January 27
    Job Opportunity

    SA Sign Language Interpreters X3

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    SA Sign Language Interpreters

    SA Sign Language Interpreters X3

    Senior Assistant Officer: SA Sign Language Interpreters (Post Level 12)

    • Job ID: 6322
    • Contract: 2 years (Contract appointment)
    • Positions Available: 3
    • Organizational Unit: Academy for Multilingualism
    • Location: Bloemfontein Campus
    • Closing Date: 29 January 2026

    Job Overview

    The Academy for Multilingualism at the University of the Free State is seeking three (3) Senior Assistant Officers to provide professional South African Sign Language (SASL) interpreting services for Deaf staff and students. The role supports academic activities, events, and administrative functions, ensuring full participation and inclusion of Deaf individuals in teaching, learning, and campus life.

    The role of SA Sign Language Interpreters is pivotal in bridging communication gaps. For instance, in a typical classroom setting, an interpreter not only translates spoken language into sign language but also conveys the tone, emotion, and nuances of the message. This level of interpretation requires deep understanding and skill, ensuring that Deaf students receive an equivalent educational experience as their hearing peers.

    In recent years, the demand for SA Sign Language Interpreters has significantly increased, reflecting the growing awareness of the importance of inclusivity in educational institutions. This trend is not only limited to universities but is also observed in various sectors, including corporate environments and community services. To illustrate, many businesses are now hiring SA Sign Language Interpreters to ensure that Deaf employees can fully participate in meetings and training sessions. This expansion of interpreting services enhances communication and fosters a more inclusive workplace culture.

    Key Duties & Responsibilities

    Provide SASL interpreting for Deaf staff and students based on academic schedules and needs

    • Interpret in academic and institutional settings such as lectures, seminars, workshops, and conferences

    • Provide language support, including document interpretation and written communication assistance

    • Adjust interpreting mode (SASL → English or English → SASL) according to context and need

    Student & Campus Support

    • Support Deaf students’ participation in campus activities (clubs, sports, residences, volunteering)

    • Interpret during university events (graduations, open days, career days, etc.)

    • Provide community service interpreting as capacity allows

    Terminology & Development

    • Assist with the collection and recording of new SASL signs and subject-specific terminology

    • Support SASL terminology development across disciplines

    Training & Mentorship

    • Assist in mentoring and training SASL interpreters and interns within the Academy

    • Report directly to the SASL Coordinator

     Job Requirements (Mandatory)

    You must meet one of the following qualification requirements:

    Option 1

     Bachelor’s degree / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in South African Sign Language
     Minimum 2 years SASL interpreting experience in higher education teaching and learning

    Option 2

     Other relevant SASL qualification
     Minimum 6 years SASL interpreting experience in higher education teaching and learning

    Recommendations (Advantageous)

    • 3 years’ experience in higher education teaching and learning contexts

    • Honours degree in SASL (NQF Level 8)

    • Experience in SASL terminology development for various disciplines

      Competencies Required

    Results-Oriented

    • Reliable, responsible, and able to adapt to changing environments

    Strategic Thinking

    • Ability to plan work and execute effectively

    • Creative and open-minded problem solving

    Business Acumen

    • Strong adherence to rules and policies

    • Proficient in MS Office

    Leading

    • Ability to lead and guide others

    • Cooperative and team-oriented

    Building Coalitions

    • Sensitive to needs of others

    • Ability to collaborate and make decisions through consultation

    Required Documents

    To ensure your application is complete, you must submit:

    • Detailed Curriculum Vitae

    • Copies of qualifications (SAQA accreditation if foreign qualifications)

    • Copy of ID or passport

    • Confirmation of employment (external applicants only)

    Incomplete applications will not be considered.

    Assumption of Duties

    01 February 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter

    Salary

    Annual package: R388,426.59 – R487,479.38 per annum
    (depending on budget, experience, and qualifications)

    Fringe benefits include:

    • Pension scheme

    • Medical aid

    • Group life insurance

    • Housing allowance

    • Leave & sick leave

    • Service bonus

    • Study benefits

    Enquiries

    PhokaR@ufs.ac.za
    051 401 9813
    051 401 7659 / 9848

    Important Notes

    • Only online applications via the official UFS portal will be accepted

    • UFS is committed to diversity and equity

    • Preference to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including people with disabilities

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