Home/ Career Paths / Specialization / Video Relay Service Interpreting

Today’s sign language interpreter has the exciting opportunity to live anywhere in America and work with deaf people from Boston to Bangkok, through Video Relay Interpreting and Video Remote Interpreting.  In both settings, the interpreter works from a central location, interpreting over live video and audio transmissions for deaf and hearing people.

Video Relay Service (VRS) interpreting is fast replacing the text-to-voice relay services traditionally used in TTY calls.  The explosive growth in video relay calls has increased the need for sign language interpreters to process these calls.  A VRS interpreter typically connects to the deaf caller through a video phone and then relays the call over an audio telephone line to the hearing caller.  VRS interpreters relay all kinds of calls: between family members planning their next vacation, co-workers discussing a company project, and customers checking on their financial accounts.  Additionally, VRS interpreters interpret for people from all around the country, and sometimes around the world.  To ensure the success of their interpreters, VRS agencies often provide a supportive team environment where interpreters network with colleagues and receive daily mentoring.

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is a technological twist on traditional interpreting, where the interpreter is connected to the assignment through a video connection.  The hearing and deaf consumers may be located in the same place, or they may be in different locations.  Most VRI assignments have the interpreter calling in to a business or medical facility to interpret between the deaf and hearing co-workers or the patient and health care worker.     

Regardless of which setting you choose, VRI and VRS interpreting can be exciting and filled with variety.  If you like variety, fast-paced work and are comfortable with technology, video interpreting may be just the career path for you!