Job Description of a Translator
Translators take material written in one language and write it in another. Translators work only with written material; spoken words are translated by an interpreter. In an increasingly multinational economy, the need for translators is growing. Many translators learned two or more languages at a young age, but this isn't a requirement. However, all translators must be fluent in at least two languages: the language of the material they are translating and the one into which the material will be translated.
Other People Are Reading
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Skills
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Translation is more than just taking a word in one language and changing it into that word in a different language. Not all words translate perfectly, and not all words have an equivalent meaning in another language. To translate concepts as well as words, translators should possess strong reading comprehension skills, to understand what they are reading. Writing and editing skills are also useful, as translators may need to rework sentences so that the translated material is cohesive and easily readable.
Translators work on documents that vary in length and complexity---books, press releases, medical journals, academic papers, and anything else that people who speak multiple languages might want to read. If a translator isn't familiar with the topic of the work she is translating, she likely will need to research the topic to ensure she is translating ideas and concepts correctly.
Work Environment
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most translators work remotely, performing freelance work in electronic form. Translators often have to find their own clients; as demand for translation can be sporadic, they may have a hard time finding steady work. The benefits of such work, however, can include flexibility in scheduling and work location, leaving time for travel and hobbies. Translators work with book publishers, the government or individual clients.
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Qualifications
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There is no specific degree or certification required to become a translator. Many translators grew up bilingual, but others learned languages in high school or college or by living in a foreign country. Some companies prefer to hire translators with proven work experience, and/or require an advanced degree in a foreign language, interpretation or translation.
Salary
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According to a BLS report published in 2006, the median hourly wage for translators is $17.10 per hour. The top 10 percent of translators earn an average of $30.91 per hour, while the lowest paid 10 percent earn $9.88 or less. Translators working for the U.S. government can earn much more, with federal language specialists earning an average annual salary of $76,287.
Outlook
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The labor bureau reports that demand for translators is expected to increase 24 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is higher than the 12 percent average annual increase for most professions. Translators fluent in Middle Eastern languages, Italian, French, German or Spanish may be in the most demand.
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