Job requirements Sign Language Interpreter in Ontario

Find out what you typically need to work as a sign language interpreter in Ontario. These requirements are applicable to all Translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114).

Employment requirements

This is what you typically need for the job.

  • A university degree in translation with a specialization in translation, interpretation or terminology in two languages including at least one of the two official languages or a university degree in a related discipline such as languages, linguistics, philology and courses in linguistic transfer and two years' experience as a full-time translator working in two languages, at least one of which is an official language or five years of experience as a full-time translator working in two languages, at least one of which is an official language, are required.
  • Sign language interpreters require a college training program or a university certificate in sign language interpretation.
  • Certification on dossier or by examination from the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC) may be required for translators, terminologists and interpreters.
  • Sign language interpreters may require a certificate or certification evaluation in LSQ or ASL.
  • Fluency in three languages is usually required for translators or interpreters working in an international context.
  • Membership in a provincial or territorial association of translators, interpreters and terminologists may be required.
  • Membership in a provincial association of sign language interpreters may be required.
  • Use of professional titles may be regulated in some provinces.

Source National Occupational Classification

Professional certification and licensing

Ontario

If this occupation is regulated, you may need to get a professional license from a regulatory authority before you can start working. Licensing can be compulsory or voluntary, depending on the occupation.

  • If the licence is compulsory, you must be certified before you can practise the occupation and use the professional designation.
  • If the licence is voluntary, you don’t need to be certified to practise this occupation.
Get your foreign credentials recognized in Canada

If you are a newcomer and want to work in a regulated job, you must have your training, education or work experience from another country assessed. This shows if your qualifications are recognized in Canada. This process is called foreign credential recognition.

The steps to get a license or certification are different in each province or territory. You will need to contact the regulatory authority where you want to work to learn what to do.

Did you know?

Getting your qualifications recognized and obtaining a professional license or certification in Canada can take time, money, and effort. If you need help, you can:

Contact the regulatory authority to learn about the certification process.

Job title Certified Translator
Regulated
Job title Certified Medical Interpreter
Regulated
Job title Certified Court Interpreter
Regulated
Job title Certified Conference Interpreter
Regulated
Job title Certified Community Interpreter
Regulated

Find out where this occupation is regulated in Canada

Source Foreign Credential Recognition Program - ESDC

Do you want to work in another province or territory?

If you are already certified to work in a regulated occupation in your province or territory, it will be easier for you to have your certification recognized in another province or territory. See the Workers Mobility's website to learn more.

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