North Carolina Interpreters FAQ's

Question: As an EIS Interpreter, would I be able to also work for another referral agency?

Answer: Absolutely. Because EIS is owned by a Nationally Certified Interpreter, we recognize the high demand for skilled Interpreters and would not limit your opportunities with another agency. We do our best to ensure that our Interpreters are always working but understand that another agency may also have work for you.

Question: But I have already signed a non-compete clause with another agency. Does this mean I can't contract with EIS?

Answer: This is a great question and an often misunderstood concept. The short answer is, no, just because you have signed a standard* non-compete clause does not mean you cannot work for another agency. You will also have to sign a non-compete clause when working for EIS but that does not limit your working options.

               What a non-compete clause really means is that you cannot take work away from the agency that originally obtained it. For example; If EIS sends you on an assignment to an academic setting and you accept the teachers offer to become a staff interpreter, you would be in violation of the non-compete clause. Likewise, if you were to alert another agency of potential work in an area that EIS originally sent you, that would be a breach of contract.

               However, simply contracting with multiple agencies is not in violation of a non-compete clause.

*Although this explains the 'standard' non-compete clause, it is possible, although unlikely, that your agency stipulates that you work solely for them. If you are unclear on your contractual obligations, please check with your attorney.

Question: As a EIS Interpreter, would I be able to set my own rates?

Answer: Definitely. All EIS Interpreters set their own rate for hourly, weekend and emergency situations. Obviously, these rates should be reflective of your education, experience and certifications but EIS does not mandate certain amounts.

Question: How often will I get paid by EIS?

Answer: Empire Interpreting sends outs payments to our Interpreters on the 1st and the 15th of every month. Assuming your invoices are on time and consistent then you will receive payment at those times.

Question: Will I have a team for lengthy assignments?

Answer: To assure the highest quality service to our customers and avoid injury or burn out from our Interpreters we always send teams when the duration of assignment or environmental conditions demand it.

Question: Do you pay your Interpreters a minimum per assignment?

Answer: All EIS Interpreters will be paid a two hour minimum regardless of how long an assignment actually lasts.

Question: Since EIS is new to the area, will you be able to supply Interpreters with work?

Answer: Empire Interpreting is actively marketing for new consumers and contracts in the North Carolina area. As such, we will be able to provide more work as time progresses and as we establish our reputation there as we did in the New York/Pennsylvania area.

              We currently do have a number of contracts in the North Carolina area but are in our infancy stages. However, because contracting with EIS does not limit your ability to work with other agencies, it only serves as a positive for you to sub-contract through EIS.