Placement Overview

A Freelance translator of the Japanese language. Most of the work this placement does is commissioned by agencies plus smaller individual jobs such as business cards.

Generic Job Description for a Translator

Translators convert written material from one language into another to allow the material to be read by people unable to read the original language.

This process is necessary for several types of document including commercial literature, instructions, legal documents and literary.

Some Translators work in-house for businesses or organisations that deal with multi nations, others are self-employed and can be called on to translate documents for many purposes.

Skills:

• Fluent in one or more foreign language
• Excellent written communication skills
• Self-motivation
• Attention to detail
• Knowledge of the field they are working within with working in-house

Pay:

• Entry £15,000
• £20,000 - £30,000 a year with experience
• £50,000 or more in the right organisation
• Freelance Translators are paid per project or sometimes per word

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Typically 9-5 Monday to Friday
• Overtime may be necessary for meeting with deadlines

Environment:

• Typically office based
• Some travel may be required to clients premises

Qualifications:

• No set entry requirements
• A language degree could improve chances of employment
• Most degree courses require five GCSE passes grades A-C and two A-Levels 

Training:

• Postgraduate courses in Translating are available
• Professional language organisations offer short courses for skills development

Opportunities:

• The majority of Translators work on a freelance basis, some combine translating work with other work
• Permanent positions are available with some government authorities and international organizations
• Competition for permanent positions is fierce 

Links:

www.iti.org.uk - Institute of Translating and Interpreting

www.fit-ift.org - International Federation of Translators

www.homeoffice.gov.uk - Home Office