Deafblind interpreter

What does a deafblind interpreter do? – Tasks and work environment

A deafblind interpreter works to enable communication for individuals with combined vision and hearing impairments. Tasks include interpreting between speech, sign language, tactile sign language, and sometimes written text, depending on the individual's needs. The interpreter conveys information in various everyday and professional situations, such as meetings, training, workplaces, and social activities. The work is often performed on-site where the user is located, which means the work environment can vary between schools, workplaces, public environments, and private homes. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different environments and situations are therefore crucial for the profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for deafblind interpreters has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 33 500 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a significant increase to 38 300 SEK, corresponding to an increase of over 14% in one year. This development can be partly explained by increased demand for qualified interpreters in specialized areas and a greater recognition of the profession's complexity and responsibility. Differences in education level, employer sector, and regional factors also contribute to variations in salary development. Despite these variations, the trend shows that the profession is valued higher on the job market, especially as the need for accessible communication increases.

Deafblind interpreter salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 230 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 102% of what men do (38 500 SEK/month vs 37 700 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions, but clear statistics are lacking

Education and qualifications

To work as a deafblind interpreter, specialized education in interpreting for individuals with deafblindness is required. The educational pathway often consists of a basic interpreting program followed by an advanced course focusing on deafblind interpretation. Practical components and supervised internships are central, and several training providers also offer supplementary courses and certifications. Knowledge of sign language and strong communication skills are important for success in the profession.

• Formal education: Vocational college education for interpreters (2–3 years) with specialization in deafblind interpretation
• Certifications: Opportunities to certify through industry organizations
• Internships: Longer practical periods included, often in collaboration with interpreting centers
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of sign language and Swedish
• Tips: Continuing education and networking strengthen competence

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for deafblind interpreters include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for professional development through courses and training. Some employers also offer flexible working hours, extra vacation days, and travel allowances. Support for work-related aids and work clothing is also common.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a deafblind interpreter is characterized by a relatively small labor market with a high degree of specialization. Since the number of trained interpreters is limited, there is often low competition for permanent positions, but temporary assignments may vary depending on region and employer. Challenges include staying updated with new communication methods, meeting individual user needs, and managing stressful situations. The lack of specific forecasts makes it difficult to predict future recruitment needs, but the demand for qualified interpreters is expected to remain high.

Tips for those who want to become a deafblind interpreter

To succeed as a deafblind interpreter, it is beneficial to have strong empathy and an interest in communication in various forms. Being attentive and flexible facilitates adapting to changing work environments and user needs. Good organizational skills help manage multiple assignments and vary tasks. Stress tolerance is important in pressured situations where communication must be quickly adapted. For those looking to develop in the profession, active participation in further training, networking, and staying informed about new research is recommended. Accuracy and a sense of responsibility are also crucial, as the interpreter often acts as a link between different parties. Finally, the role benefits from genuine engagement to increase accessibility for people with deafblindness.

Key facts about deafblind interpreters

• Education level: Vocational college degree with specialization
• Work environment: Varies, often on-site with the user
• Typical employment: Temporary assignments or employment through interpreting centers
• Demand: High specialization, low competition for permanent positions
• Occupational group: Translators, interpreters, and linguists, among others

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a deafblind interpreter, there are opportunities to further specialize, for example within education, mentoring new interpreters, or working on developing interpreting services. Some choose to combine interpreting with work in research, project management, or pedagogical efforts to enhance societal accessibility. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the occupational group of translators, interpreters, and linguists, there is no specific assessment for deafblind interpreters due to limited data, but there are a total of 620 available jobs within the profession. The need for qualified interpreters is expected to remain high, especially as more people gain access to social services and education. Regional variations exist, and career development opportunities increase for those who continue their education and are open to new work areas.

Frequently asked questions about deafblind interpreters

• What does a deafblind interpreter earn?
  - The average salary is 38 300 SEK per month, with variations between 31,500 and 48,100 SEK depending on experience and sector.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 38 500 SEK while men earn 37 700 SEK, which means women earn 102% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a deafblind interpreter?
  - Vocational college education for interpreters with additional training in deafblind interpretation and practical experience.
• What does the job market look like for deafblind interpreters?
  - The job market is specialized with low competition for permanent positions and a total of 620 available jobs within the profession.
• In which work environments can a deafblind interpreter work?
  - The work environment varies between schools, workplaces, public environments, and private homes depending on the user's needs.
• What personal qualities are important for a deafblind interpreter?
  - Empathy, flexibility, responsiveness, and stress tolerance are key qualities in the profession.
• How does the salary development look for deafblind interpreters?
  - Salary has increased significantly in recent years, especially between 2023 and 2024, with over 14% salary increase.