Interpreter

The United States District Court for the District of Arizona is currently seeking a full-time permanent court interpreter position located in the Tucson & Phoenix Clerk's Office.

Open until filled, with preference given to applications received by January 1, 2026.

The incumbent provides Spanish-English interpretation services in all types of matters before the court as well as translation of documents. The tasks to be performed are very complex, calling for a wide range of well-developed interpreting and interpersonal skills. The choice of which interpreting technique is required—consecutive, simultaneous, or sight—is governed by the particular situation. Travel within the state of Arizona will be required.

• Interpreting in the consecutive and simultaneous modes as required during courtroom proceedings.
• Translating documents and correspondence to and from the court.
• Assisting with the processing of vouchers for contract interpreters.
• Providing remote interpretation services via TIP (Telephone Interpreting Program).
• Interpreting outside of court for ancillary matters related to the court as directed.
• Other duties as assigned.

The applicant must hold a Court Interpreter Certification issued by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts as a Spanish court interpreter and provide proof of said certification. The candidate must be proficient interpreting in the simultaneous and consecutive mode, as well as provide sight translations and translate documents. Preference will be given to candidates who can demonstrate actual court experience.

To qualify at salary level JSP 12 or JSP 13, a person must have two years of specialized experience. To qualify at salary level JSP 14, a person must have three years of specialized experience. Specialized experience is defined as experience that has provided the interpreter with the knowledge, skills and abilities to accurately interpret between Spanish and English, without any additions, omissions or changes to the meaning, while maintaining the same register as the speaker.

The ability to maintain a professional demeanor in all cases is required. The ability to translate complex documents and correspondence written in a wide variety of registers is also a requirement.

• Cover letter that supports your work experience as it relates to the position.
• Resume that includes complete work and salary history, and education.
• A copy of your federal Court Interpreter Certification issued by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts.
• Your two most recent performance evaluations (strongly preferred). Letters of recommendation may be substituted if no evaluation is available. One letter of recommendation must be from a current or recent supervisor.

Go to our website:  to submit an online application, including the items listed above. Applications are only accepted on the website.

Attachments should be MS Word or Adobe Acrobat (PDF) documents. Other formats are not acceptable.

Applications will be considered complete when the online application and all required attachments are received by the Human Resources. Applications received after the closing date may not be considered.

The initial appointment to this position is provisional pending the successful completion of the required background checks and/or investigations. The U.S. District Court is a drug‑free workplace and the applicant selected will be required to participate in a drug screening test prior to employment.

The position is subject to the mandatory electronic fund transfer (EFT) participation for payment of net pay (i.e., Direct Deposit).

The U.S. District Court, District of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity Employer