Language Practitioner (South African Sign Language Interpreter) Jobs

  • Full Time
  • Pretoria, South Africa

The South African Revenue Service (SARS)

Language Practitioner: South African Sign Language (SASL) Interpreter

Company: South African Revenue Service (SARS)

Location: South Africa

Job Type: Full-Time

Application Deadline: 20 February 2026

About SARS

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is the nation’s tax and customs authority. Established as an autonomous agency, we are responsible for administering the South African tax system and ensuring the collection of national taxes, duties, and levies to support the country’s development.

Job Purpose

We are seeking a dedicated Language Practitioner to manage and provide professional South African Sign Language (SASL) interpreting and translation services. In this role, you will support SARS events and contribute to the growth and promotion of SASL and multilingualism within the organization.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Option 1: A Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF 7) in Language Practice. You must have 5 to 7 years of experience as a SASL Interpreter, including 2 to 3 years at a technically skilled level.
  • Option 2: A Senior Certificate (Matric/NQF 4) with at least 10 years of related experience in SASL interpreting, including 2 to 3 years at a technically skilled level.

Key Skills and Knowledge

  • Deep understanding of SASL grammatical structures and Deaf culture.
  • Strong knowledge of the Use of the Official Languages Act and SARS Language Policies.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • High level of computer literacy and administrative skills.
  • Ability to handle confidential information and work effectively under pressure.
  • Strong research, planning, and organizational abilities.

Primary Responsibilities

Interpreting and Translation

  • Provide accurate SASL interpreting (spoken to sign and vice versa) during meetings, departmental events, and official engagements.
  • Translate documents, speeches, and audio content into SASL or video formats.
  • Develop and maintain a glossary of government-related SASL terminology and orthography.

Strategy and Compliance

  • Implement strategies to ensure SARS complies with national language legislation.
  • Identify and develop new tools and applications to improve SASL services.
  • Assist with the implementation of the SARS Language Policy.
  • Liaise with external stakeholders, including academic institutions and Deaf organizations.

Awareness and Education

  • Conduct workshops to train employees on SASL and Deaf culture awareness.
  • Research SASL trends and produce reports for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Promote inclusive communication practices across the organization.

Core Competencies

  • Professionalism: High levels of honesty, integrity, and accountability.
  • Problem Solving: The ability to analyze complex situations and find efficient solutions.
  • Adaptability: Willingness to adjust to new information and changing environments.
  • Collaboration: Building productive relationships with team members and clients to achieve goals.
  • Excellence: A commitment to continuous learning and high-quality work standards.

Method of Application

If you meet the requirements and are interested in this position, please submit your application through the official SARS careers portal (SuccessFactors). Ensure all relevant qualifications and experience are clearly documented in your CV.