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