Job Description - Translator or Interpreter:
A translator or interpreter converts one language, known as the source language, into another, known as the target language. Translators work with the written word, while interpreters deal with the spoken word. More is involved in this work than simply converting words from one language into another. Translators and interpreters relay ideas and concepts using their knowledge of both languages, cultures and the subject matter.
Employment Facts - Translator or Interpreter:
There were 41,000 people working as translators and interpreters in 2006. Twenty-two percent of them were self employed, and of those, many worked part-time.
Educational Requirements - Translator or Interpreter:
Most employers hire only translators and interpreters with a bachelor's degree. One doesn't have to major in a language to work as a translator or interpreter — a major in another field can give one subject area expertise. A translator or interpreter should receive specialized training for this job through formal programs available at colleges and through non-university training programs, conferences, and courses.
Other Requirements - Translator or Interpreter:
To work as a translator or interpreter one must have fluency in at least two languages. Knowledge about other cultures, preferably through direct contact acquired by traveling to other countries, is important. In preparation for becoming a translator or interpreter, one should also read extensively, on a variety of subjects, in both languages. Volunteer work and internships are a good way to acquire the experience most employers require. There are a variety of ways in which translators and interpreters may become certified, but doing so is not required.
Advancement Opportunities - Translator or Interpreter:
As a translator or interpreter gains experience, he or she may become eligible for more difficult or prestigious assignments. One may become certified, be given editorial responsibility or start his or her own translation agency.
Job Outlook - Translator or Interpreter:
The future is promising for translators and interpreters. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts much faster than average job growth for this field through 2016.
Earnings - Translator or Interpreter:
Median annual earnings of translators and interpreters were $37,490 in 2007 ($18.02/hour).
Use the Salary Wizard at Salary.com to find out how much a Translator or Interpreter currently earns in your city.
A Day in a Translator Or Interpreter's Life:
On a typical day a translator or interpreter's tasks might include:
- Following ethical codes that protect the confidentiality of information.
- Identifying and resolving conflicts related to the meanings of words, concepts, practices, or behaviors.
- Translating messages simultaneously or consecutively into specified languages, orally or by using hand signs, maintaining message content, context, and style as much as possible.
- Proofreading, editing and revising translated materials.
- Checking translations of technical terms and terminology to ensure they are accurate and remain consistent throughout translation revisions.
- Reading written materials, such as legal documents, scientific works, or news reports, and rewriting material into specified languages.
- Referring to reference materials, such as dictionaries, lexicons, encyclopedias, and computerized terminology banks, as needed to ensure translation accuracy.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Translator or Interpreter, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos175.htm (visited February 18, 2009).
Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET Online, Translator or Interpreter, on the Internet at http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/27-3091.00 (visited February 18, 2009).
Should You Become a Translator or Interpreter? Take a Quiz to Find Out.
