Salaried interpreters and translators had median hourly earnings of $15.67 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $11.97 and $20.33. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $9.37, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $25.99. Limited information suggests that highly skilled interpreters and translators—for example, high-level conference interpreters—working full time can earn more than $100,000 annually.
Earnings depend on language, subject matter, skill, experience, education, certification, and type of employer, and salaries of interpreters and translators can vary widely. Interpreters and translators with language skills for which there is a greater demand, or for which there are relatively few people with the skills, often have higher earnings. According to a 2001 salary survey by the American Translators Association, Chinese and Japanese interpreters and translators earned the highest median hourly rates—ranging from $45 to $50 an hour. Interpreters and translators with specialized expertise, such as those working in software localization, also generally command higher rates. Individuals classified as language specialists for the Federal Government earned an average of $64,234 annually in 2003.
For those who are not salaried, earnings may fluctuate, depending on the availability of work. Furthermore, freelancers do not have any employer-paid benefits. Freelance interpreters usually earn an hourly rate, whereas translators who freelance typically earn a rate per word or per hour.
Interpreters and translators enable the cross-cultural communication necessary in today’s society by converting one language into another. However, these language specialists do more than simply translate words—they relay concepts and ideas between languages. They must thoroughly understand the subject matter in which they work, so that they are able to convert information from one language, known as the source language, into another, the target language. In addition, they must remain sensitive to the cultures associated with their languages of expertise.
Interpreters and translators are often discussed together because they share some common traits. For example, both need a special ability, known as language combination. This enables them to be fluent in at least two languages—a native, or active, language and a secondary, or passive, language. Their active language is the one they know best and into which they interpret or translate, and their passive language is one of which they have nearly perfect knowledge.
Although some people do both, interpretation and translation are different professions. Each requires a distinct set of skills and aptitudes, and most people are better suited for one or the other. While interpreters often work into and from both languages, translators generally work only into their active language.
Interpreters convert one spoken language into another—or, in the case of sign-language interpreters, between spoken communication and sign language. This requires interpreters to pay attention carefully, understand what is communicated in both languages, and express thoughts and ideas clearly. Strong research and analytical skills, mental dexterity, and an exceptional memory also are important.
The first part of an interpreter’s work begins before arriving at the jobsite. The interpreter must become familiar with the subject matter that the speakers will cover, a task that may involve research to create a list of common words and phrases associated with the topic. Next, the interpreter usually travels to the location where his or her services are needed. Physical presence may not be required for some work, such as telephone interpretation. But it is usually important that the interpreter see the communicators in order to hear and observe the person speaking and to relay the message to the other party.
There are two types of interpretation: simultaneous and consecutive. Simultaneous interpretation requires interpreters to listen and speak (or sign) at the same time. In simultaneous interpretation, the interpreter begins to convey a sentence being spoken while the speaker is still talking. Because they need a high degree of concentration, simultaneous interpreters work in pairs, with each interpreting for 20- to 30-minute segments. This type of interpretation is required at international conferences and is sometimes used in the courts. Consecutive interpreters often take notes while listening to the speakers, so they must develop some type of note-taking or shorthand system. And because the documents they translate must be as flawless as possible, they also need good editing skills. When they first receive text to convert into another language, translators usually read it in its entirety to get an idea of the subject.
Translating involves more than replacing a word with its equivalent in another language; sentences and ideas must be manipulated to flow with the same coherence as those in the source document, so that the translation reads as though it originated in the target language. Translators also must bear in mind any cultural references that may need to be explained to the intended audience, such as colloquialisms, slang, and other expressions that do not translate literally. Not surprisingly, translated work often goes through multiple revisions before final text is submitted.
The way in which translators do their jobs has changed with advancements in technology. Today, nearly all translation work is done on a computer, and most assignments are received and submitted electronically. In some cases, use of machine-assisted translation—including memory tools that provide comparisons of previous translations with current work—helps save time and reduce repetition.
The services of interpreters and translators are needed in a number of subject areas. Some of the most common areas are described below; however, interpreters and translators also may work in a variety of other areas, including business, social services, or entertainment.
Conference interpreters work at conferences that involve non-English-speaking attendees. This work includes international business and diplomacy, although conference interpreters also may interpret for any organization that works with foreign language speakers. Usually, interpreters sit in soundproof booths, listening to the speakers through headphones and interpreting into a microphone what is said. Legal translators must be thoroughly familiar with the language and functions of the U.S.
Literary translators adapt written literature from one language into another. For example, after receiving permission from the author, they might submit to a publishing house a previously unpublished short work, such as a poem or essay.
Localization translators constitute a relatively recent and rapidly expanding specialty. Localization involves the complete adaptation of a product for use in a different language and culture.
Providing language services to healthcare patients with limited English proficiency is the realm of medical interpreters and translators. Sign language interpreters must be fluent in English and American Sign Language (ASL), which combines signing, finger spelling, and specific body language.
Employment of interpreters and translators is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations over the 2002-12 period, reflecting growth in the industries employing interpreters and translators. Higher demand for interpreters and translators in recent years has resulted directly from the broadening of international ties and the increase in foreign language speakers in the United States. Both of these trends are expected to continue, contributing to relatively rapid growth in the number of jobs for interpreters and translators.
Technology has made the work of interpreters and translators easier. However, technology is not likely to have a negative impact on employment of interpreters and translators because such innovations are incapable of producing work comparable with work produced by these professionals.
Translators are most in demand for the languages referred to as “PFIGS”—Portuguese, French, Italian, German, and Spanish, and the principal Asian languages—Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. Current events and changing political environments, often difficult to foresee, sometimes increase the need for persons who can work with other languages.
Urban areas, especially those in California, New York, and Washington, DC, provide the largest numbers of employment possibilities, especially for interpreters; however, as the immigrant population spreads into more rural areas, jobs in smaller communities will become more widely available.
Job prospects for interpreters and translators vary by specialty. In particular, there should be strong demand for specialists in localization, driven by imports and exports, the expansion of the Internet, and demand in other technical areas such as medicine or law. Rapid employment growth among interpreters and translators in health services industries will be fueled by relatively recent guidelines regarding compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which requires all healthcare providers receiving Federal aid to provide language services to non-English speakers. Similarly, the Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws, such as the Rehabilitation Act, mandate that, in certain situations, an interpreter must be available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Given the lack of qualified candidates meeting these requirements, interpreters for the deaf will continue to have favorable employment prospects. On the other hand, job growth is expected to be limited for both conference interpreters and literary translators.
The educational backgrounds of interpreters and translators vary. Knowing a language in addition to a native language is a given. Although it is not necessary to have been raised bilingual to succeed, many interpreters and translators grew up speaking two languages.
In high school, students can begin to prepare for these careers by taking a broad range of courses that include English writing and comprehension, foreign languages, and basic computer proficiency. Other helpful pursuits include spending time abroad, or comparable forms of direct contact with foreign cultures, and extensive reading on a variety of subjects in English and at least one other language.
Beyond high school, there are many educational options. Although a bachelor’s degree is almost always required, interpreters and translators note that it is acceptable to major in something other than a language. However, specialized training in how to do the work is generally required. A number of formal programs in interpreting and translation are available at colleges nationwide and through nonuniversity training programs, conferences, and courses. Many people who work as conference interpreters or in more technical areas—such as localization, engineering, or finance—have master’s degrees, while those working in the community as court or medical interpreters or translators are more likely to complete job-specific training programs.
There is currently no universal form of certification required of all interpreters and translators in the United States, but there are a variety of different tests that workers can take to demonstrate proficiency. The American Translators Association provides accreditation in more than 24 language combinations for its members; other options include a certification program offered by The Translators and Interpreters Guild. Many interpreters are not certified. Federal courts have certification for Spanish, Navaho, and Haitian Creole interpreters, and many State and municipal courts offer their own forms of certification. The National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators also offers certification for court interpreting. Department of State has a three-test series for interpreters, including simple consecutive interpreting (escort), simultaneous interpreting (court/seminar), and conference-level interpreting (international conferences). These tests are not referred to directly as certification, but successful completion often indicates that a person has an adequate level of skill to work in the field.
Both the National Association of the Deaf and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf offer certification for sign interpreters and have recently collaborated to develop a joint exam.
Experience is an essential part of a successful career in either interpreting or translation. In fact, many agencies or companies use only the services of people who have worked in the field for 3 to 5 years or who have a degree in translation studies or both.
A good way for translators to learn firsthand about the profession is to start out working in-house for a company; however, such jobs are not very numerous. Advice for new entrants to the field is to begin getting experience whatever way they can—even if it means doing informal or unpaid work. Mentoring relationships and internships are other ways to build skills and confidence. Escort interpreting may offer an opportunity for inexperienced candidates to work alongside a more seasoned interpreter. Interpreters might also find it easier to break into areas with particularly high demand for language services, such as court or medical interpretation. Once interpreters and translators have gained sufficient experience, they may then move up to more difficult or prestigious assignments, may be given editorial responsibility, or may eventually manage or start their own translation agency.
Interpreters and translators use their multilingual skills, as do teachers of languages. These include teachers—preschool, kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary; teachers—postsecondary; teachers—special education; and teachers—adult literacy and remedial and self-enrichment education. The work of interpreters, particularly guide or escort interpreters, can be likened to that of tour and travel guides, in that they accompany individuals or groups on tours or to places of interest. Similarly, interpreters may share some common work characteristics with announcers, who also work in soundproof environments relaying information to listeners.
The work of translators is similar to that of writers and editors, in that they communicate information and ideas through the written word and prepare texts for publication or dissemination. Those working in localization of software have skills similar to those of computer software engineers, in that they analyze users’ needs and design, create, and modify computer software, and many possess strong programming skills. Furthermore, interpreters or translators working in a legal or healthcare environment are required to have a knowledge of terms and concepts that is similar to that of professionals working in these fields, such as court reporters or medical transcriptionists.
Organizations dedicated to these professions can provide valuable advice and guidance for people interested in learning more about interpretation and translation. The language services division of local hospitals or courthouses also may be able to offer information about available opportunities.
For career information, contact the organizations listed below:
For more detailed information by specialty, contact the association affiliated with that subject area:
We are specialists who ONLY undertake Japanese translation assignments. Experienced Japanese translators produce higher quality work. If you could, you probably wouldn't need to place your order in the first place. The meaning is taken from the context. Great care must be taken to avoid confusion.
Summary of: http://www.futureimplications.com/
Work is often sporadic and many interpreters and translators work part time. Job outlook varies by specialty and language combination. They must thoroughly understand the subject matter in which they work, so that they are able to convert information from one language, known as the source language, into another, the target language. In addition, they must remain sensitive to the cultures associated with their languages of expertise. Because they need a high degree of concentration, simultaneous interpreters work in pairs, with each interpreting for 20- to 30-minute segments.
Summary of: http://www.collegegrad.com/careers/proft105.shtml
Translators deal with written text. They write documents and other written materials in another language. Interpreters work with live speech. They listen to speakers and translate what they say. Sign language Interpreters provide translation between spoken and sign language communication.
Summary of: http://www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occguide/TRANSLAT.HTM
Recently, a doctor mentioned to me that the courts hire interpreters and that people even get paid to accompany litigants to doctor's offices. Translators deal with written texts; interpreters work with live speech in a variety of circumstances. It requires an intuitive knowledge of the speaker's language in order to anticipate what's said next, along with the ability to talk and listen at the same time. Applicants must be state certified and pass an additional oral and written exam given by the courts. Chinese/English, English/Chinese and Korean/English and English/Korean have recently (2001) been added to the program.
Summary of: http://www.latimes.com/classified/jobs/counselor/la-020113counselor-translator.htmlstory
What is NAATI. NAATI is a national standards body owned by the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments of Australia. NAATI sets and maintains the standards of translation and interpreting at four accreditation levels. NAATI accredits translators and interpreters who meet the specified standards. NAATI conducts translator and interpreter accreditation tests in various cities in Australia and New Zealand.
Summary of: http://www.naati.com.au/
on May 28 at BookPeople, 603 N. The course offered this summer is an introduction to the professions of translation and interpreting. It is intended for individuals who are fluent in English and a foreign language and interested in putting their language skills to work. Students also gain an awareness of the general problems involved in translating and interpreting. For further information contact Esther Diaz 512-731-5266.
Summary of: http://www.aatia.org/
Check if E-mail is Free Advertise with Us. Apply for work with registered translation agencies. Or chat with other linguists about issues of the day. You will not be able to rate translation agencies so that others will know if it is worth working with them or not. Click here and you will find yourself in a company of cheerful and most helpful colleagues.
Summary of: http://translatorscafe.com/
They may also interpret simultaneously, which means they translate while the speaker talks. Sign language interpreters change spoken language into hand signals. They work for the United Nations and in tourist attractions all over the world. They like to see the results of their work and to use their strongest abilities. IssuesContemporary World IssuesWestern CivilizationLaw StudiesBusiness LawLegal SystemSocial SciencePsychologyHiring Practices Employers prefer applicants who are fluent in more than one language.
Summary of: http://www.iseek.org/sv/13000.jsp?id=100110
Interpreters work with only spoken language. To do this, they must understand the precise meaning of words and phrases and be able to listen attentively for long periods of time. Interpreters are fluent in at least two languages and usually more. Often they work in two directions--they can translate from a foreign language into their native tongue or from their native tongue into a foreign language. To learn the subtleties of a foreign language, interpreters usually spend some time abroad.
Summary of: http://www3.ccps.virginia.edu/career_prospects/briefs/E-J/Interpreters.shtml
5125 Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Translators translate written material from one language to another. Interpreters translate oral communication from one language to another during speeches, meetings, conferences, debates and conversation, or in court or before administrative tribunals. Sign language interpreters use sign language to translate spoken language and vice versa during meetings, conversations, television programs or in other instances. Sign language interpreters work in schools and courts, and for social service agencies, interpretation services, government services and television stations, or they may be self-employed. Certification on dossier or by examination from the Canadian Translators and Interpreter's Council may be required for translators, terminologists and interpreters.
Summary of: http://www23.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/2001/e/groups/5125.shtml