Translators work with written documents to convey their meaning and style into other languages. They predominantly work with business, technical, legal and scientific written materials, although some translate fiction, poetry and scripts. There are also specialist opportunities to work on text from video games and film subtitles.
Translators are different from interpreters, who work with the spoken word.
Typical duties include:
- reading and researching documents, terminology and linguistic styles
- reproducing text accurately in different languages, often using specialist software. Translation tends to be from a ‘source language’ (a language that’s not your native tongue) into your ‘target language’ (your mother tongue)
- ensuring translated material is suitable for the intended readers
- consulting experts
- developing contacts and building relationships with clients
- managing projects.
You’re likely to work standard ‘office’ hours (nine-to-five), although you may not be based in an office. You may need to work late or unsociable hours if a deadline is due or if a client is in a different time zone.