Realtime Captioner (Continuous)

Major Duties

Under general supervision, the Realtime Captioner facilitates communications by using court reporting methods, a steno machine, real-time technology software, and a laptop computer to create real-time word-for-word text of spoken English. The incumbent facilitates communication by assisting Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing consumers with concurrent participation in the communication process by voicing questions or comments that the consumer has entered into the system.

• Provides communication access real-time translating services (CART) to consumers such as Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing individuals, and/or other disabled individuals, including students, faculty, staff, and university guests; the consumer(s) reads the text on a laptop computer screen or other display device as it is being created in such settings as the classroom, student-teacher conferences, and/or other academic, instructional or administrative situations.
• Provides a complete transcription of all spoken words and environmental cues; provides consumer(s) with an electronic disk, e-mail, or hard copy version of the transcript.
• Provides their equipment and software, including a real-time-capable steno machine, laptop computer, display monitor for consumers, current software for real-time translation, real-time cables, and other items for set up (e.g., extension cords, extra battery, and power surge protector).
• Researches technical terminology related to assignments and continually develops and modifies custom software dictionaries.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

NOTE: The position will be filled at either the Realtime Captioner (RTC) Range 1A or 2B level dependent upon the applicant's qualifications.

Level 1A:

• Formal training in court reporting and steno methods is required, with graduation from a court reporting school preferred.
• Six (6) to twelve (12) months of experience providing real-time captioning services, preferably in a higher education setting.

Level 2B:

In addition to meeting the requirements outlined above, two (2) or more years of captioning experience and must possess one (1) of the following certifications:

1. State of California Certified Shorthand Reporter certificate; or,

2. Court Reporting Certificate of Completion; or,

3. Certified CART Provider through the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) (preferred); or,

4. Possess a comparable industry certification.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of court reporting methods and theories, real-time software and technology, real-time captioning computer systems and equipment, and the industry-recognized code of ethics; comprehensive knowledge of the English language, including grammatical structures, syntax, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
• Working knowledge of the language and vocabulary used in the assigned translating situations; and general knowledge of deaf and hard-of-hearing accommodation needs.
• Ability and specialized skills to: caption at a minimum rate of 180 words per minute with a high level of accuracy; proficiently use, maintain, and troubleshoot court reporting steno equipment, real-time software, and computer systems and equipment; develop, maintain, and proficiently use a thorough dictionary that enables accurate and fluid translation;
• Effectively listen for continuity, sense, and detail while translating; proficiently write in real time in a conflict-free manner using punctuation and sustaining accuracy in fast-paced stressful situations; use advanced editing skills; work effectively with consumers; and maintain confidentiality.

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule

• Classification: Hourly Interpreter/Real-Time Captioner/Computer-Aided Transcriber / 7193 / 0
• The anticipated HIRING MAX: $47.19 (RTC I) and $53.09 (RTC II) per hour. The salary range for this classification is: $19.37 - $194.60 per hour.
• HOURS: Intermittent; hours and schedule vary.
• Temporary, renewable appointment; annual contract from July through June, subject to annual renewal based on organizational needs.
• The individual hired for this role will physically work on-campus in Northridge. This is not a telecommute position.