Translator Employment

Answer 1

Working as a translator entails translating documentation from one language into another. Translators must be proficient in their native language as well as at least one foreign language. Although a college degree is not always mandatory, translators with degrees and certification often enjoy better job prospects and higher paying assignments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts job growth from 2010 to 2020 to reach 42 percent, one of the highest job growth fields in the nation. Median salaries for translators in 2010 reached $43,300 annually. Entry level translators can expect a starting wage in the range of $15 to $23 per hour.

Translators must not only be able to speak and write in a foreign language, but must also be able to interpret cultural clues and inferred references made by authors. Some translations require that the translator take on the "voice" of the original author in order to maintain a certain style and tone. Many translators employ the use of translation software and applications. Professional organizations and government agencies often require a bachelor's or master's degree in addition to translator certification.

Translators work in wide range of fields and are often self-employed. Because of the explosive growth in international business, translators are in high demand domestically in the U.S. and abroad. Due to a high American military and civilian presence in the Middle East, translation jobs for that region are growing rapidly.

Typical translating jobs may include working for a publishing company translating literary works or translating websites. Translators also work with government agencies translating foreign documents. Freelance translators often work for individuals, small and large businesses. Travel to a host country, such as China, may be required for extensive translation jobs, while other assignments may be completed from a home office.

Advances in technology and an expanding global market have created new job opportunities for translators, such as in the field of localization. Localization translators adapt foreign product information for software and manufacturing companies interested in marketing their products in non-local markets. Localization translators must often be savvy in business and marketing as well as having knowledge about product development.