As a translator, you'll convert written material from one or more 'source languages' into the 'target language', making sure that the translated version conveys the meaning of the original as clearly as possible. The target language is normally your mother tongue.

Transcreating may also be part of the job, which is a mix of translation, localisation and copywriting, where the text is culturally and linguistically adapted to suit the reader.

You typically need an excellent command of two or more languages. Those most in demand are the official languages of the European Union (EU) and the six official languages of the United Nations (UN).

Types of translation

You can translate a variety of content, including:

• commercial
• educational
• legal
• literary
• scientific
• technical documents.

Responsibilities

As a translator, you'll need to:

• read through original material and rewrite it in the target language, ensuring that the meaning of the source text is retained
• use translation memory software, such as Wordfast, memoQ, Across, SDL Trados and Transit NXT, to ensure consistency of translation within documents and help efficiency
• use specialist dictionaries, thesauruses and reference books to find the closest equivalents for terminology and words used
• use appropriate software for presentation and delivery
• research legal, technical and scientific phraseology to find the correct translation
• liaise with clients to discuss any unclear points
• proofread and edit final translated versions
• provide quotations for translation services offered
• consult with experts in specialist areas
• retain and develop knowledge on specialist areas of translation
• follow various translation-quality standards to ensure legal and ethical obligations to the customer.

Salary

• Salaries for translators in the UK vary widely and freelance rates are often calculated according to the word count.
• Translation of highly specialised texts, from or into unusual languages, demands higher rates than general translation.
• As an approximate guide, you may be able to earn a salary in the region of £18,000 to £40,000.

Working hours

Working hours for in-house translators are usually 9am to 5pm. If you work as a freelance translator, your hours can be flexible but you'll need to organise them to make sure you can meet fixed deadlines.

Part-time work is possible and short-term temporary contracts are available. You may need to juggle several freelance projects at one time.