Translators and interpreters convert and transmit information from one language to another. A skilled translator should be fluent in two or more languages. In addition to being able to read and write in those languages, a translator should also have the skills to understand nuances of various cultures in which interpreted languages are spoken.
A translator is capable of working with a variety of clients who have different needs. Work might include translation services for event speakers, translating conversations between two or more individuals, and translating books, instruction guides, and subtitles for films.
In this section, we will cover a sample job description, exploring the daily responsibilities and necessary qualifications for a translator.
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The Job Overview
We are hiring a translator to join our project team. You will work alongside other Spanish translators and report directly to the project manager. Your main tasks will include translating documents, recording video captions, and translating our website. To succeed in this role you should have a natural understanding of Spanish and a good grasp of grammar.
Responsibilities
Below are some of the responsibilities a translator is expected to assume in their position:
Translate content within documents, web pages, and software
Maintain translation database by using translation management software
Provide quality assurance for the translation process
Work with a wide range of media and translation software
Resolve issues associated with translation, localization, and culture
Engage with other departments to provide translation services
Implement feedback and changes whenever possible
Job Qualifications and Skill Sets
Below are the qualifications expected of a translator:
Bachelor's degree in communications or linguistics
Minimum five years experience in the translation field
Proficiency in translation tools and software such as Déjà Vu, memoQ, Wordfast, and Trados
Knowledge of the translation process, terminology, and localization techniques
Familiarity with localization guidelines and standards
Ability to convert written materials into a second language
Excellent translation, writing, and communication skills
Fluency in at least two of the target languages
Ability to work under tight deadlines
Proficiency in MS Office Suite
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4 Factors to Consider When Creating a Translation Job Description That Fits Your Needs
There are many translators out there, so it is crucial that you understand what you need before hiring. Below are some factors to consider to help you choose the right fit for your company:
1. What Type of Translator Do You Need?
Translators have different specializations. While some translators specialize in translating conversations and spoken words at events, others are more skilled in translating written text or sign language. Finding the right translator for your needs is important, as it can have a direct impact on the quality of the translation and the speed in which it is done.
2. Employee vs Consultant vs Freelance
Translators can be hired as full-time employees, external consultants, or freelancers. The type of translator you need will depend on your environment and the reasons you need a translator. Hiring a full-time employee is suitable for corporations and organizations that conduct significant business internationally or have a diverse clientele from various countries. Hiring a consultant or a freelance translator is best for organizations or individuals with more limited translation needs, such as a special event, a series of reports, heavy-equipment instructions prepping for export, or vacation or business trips.
3. Experience
The more experienced a translator, the more translating work they will be able to handle. For projects such as translating business conversations, presentations in front of a live audience, or legal documents, a translator with 5-10 years of experience and proficiency in two or more languages offers many benefits. While the price for more-experienced translators will be higher than those for translators with less experience and fluency in fewer foreign languages, the benefits they provide can easily outweigh the cost of securing their services.
4. Industry
While translators may specialize in specific industries, such as legal, healthcare, politics, and manufacturing, many translators work across multiple industries, as their work in the subject matter requiring translations might not require deep understanding. Translators handling the conversion of general content for books, presentations, film dialogue, and reports can typically work in any industry.
Next Steps
So you’re now ready to begin looking for a translator. Great translators can be found on Upwork. Their qualifications are listed along with their experience, giving you all the information to find the right fit for you.
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