Principal Court Interpreter

Published: 23 July 2025

πŸ“‹Job Overview

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives while building a rewarding career? The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is offering a fantastic opportunity for you to step into the role of **Principal Court Interpreter** at the Magistrate Office in Upington, Northern Cape. In this pivotal position, you will be the backbone of communication within the court, managing and supervising a team of interpreters to ensure that justice is accessible to all.

Your daily tasks will include providing interpreting services, translating legal documents and exhibits, and developing essential legal terminology. You’ll also play a vital role in reconstructing court records and managing personnel administrative aspects, all while ensuring that your team operates effectively and efficiently.

This role is crucial in serving the community by facilitating clear communication in legal proceedings.

By bridging the language gap, you will help ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has a fair chance to understand and participate in the legal system. Your work will contribute to upholding justice and protecting the rights of individuals, making a genuine impact on society. For young South Africans seeking a stable career in public service, this position offers more than just a job.

It’s an entry into the world of government, where you can gain professional experience and receive valuable training. Not only will you develop your skills in a vital area of public service, but you’ll also have the chance to make a real difference in your community. If you’re looking for an opportunity that combines personal growth with the chance to serve others, this is it!

Join the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development as a **Principal Court Interpreter** and take your first step towards a fulfilling career in the public sector. Apply today and become a key player in ensuring that justice is served for all!

πŸ“‹ Job Details

πŸ’° Salary: R397 116 – R467 790 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
πŸ“ Location: Magistrate Office: Upington
πŸ“§ Applications: Quoting the relevant reference number, direct your application to: The Provincial Head: Justice and Constitutional Development, Private Bag X6106, Kimberley, 8300. OR hand delivers at the New Public Buildings, (Magistrates Court) of Knight and Stead Streets, 7th floor, Kimberley, 8301. Note: Applicants who wish to post their application forms are encouraged to utilize courier services in light of the current postal service challenges. Interested applicants must submit their applications for employment to https://forms.office.com/r/X2XaVPasWu or alternatively the address specified.
❓ Enquiries: Northern Cape: Mr. O. Oliphant Tel No: (054) 3375301

πŸ“Requirements

NQF level 4/ Grade 12; National Diploma: Legal Interpreting (NQF level 5) or any other relevant tertiary qualification at NQF level 5; 5 years of practical experience as a Court Interpreter with minimum two (2) years supervisory experience; Proficiency English; Proficiency in two (2) or more indigenous languages (Afrikaans, SeTswana and IsiXhosa); A valid driver’s licence. Skills and competencies: Communication skills; Listening skills; Interpersonal skills; Time management; Computer literacy; Analytical thinking; Problem solving; Planning and organizing; Confidentiality; Ability to work under pressure; Art of interpreting.

⚑Key Duties & Responsibilities

Key Performance Areas: Manage and supervise interpreters; Render interpreting services; Translate legal documents and exhibits; Develop terminology; Assist with the reconstruction of court records; Attend to personnel administrative aspects; Provide effective people management; Procure Foreign Language Interpreters and Casual Interpreters.

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