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Translator
Translators convert the written word from the 'source language' into the 'target language', making sure that the meaning is the same.
Average salary (a year)
£0
Starter
£0
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
37.0 to 39.0 hours
variable
Work Hours
evenings / weekends
attending events or appointments
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:a university course; applying directly; a qualification with a professional body
University
You'll usually need a degree or postgraduate qualification in translation.
Relevant degrees include
languages - courses which specialise in linguistics or translation may give you an advantage but are not essential, combined degrees which include a subject like law or science with languages
You could also do a postgraduate course like an master's in translation or translation studies.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Other Routes
You can take a diploma in translation through the Chartered Institute of Linguists, which is a postgraduate level qualification.
The Institute of Translation and Interpreting also has details of organisations offering training in translation.
More Information
Career Tips
Language translation skills in demand include
French, German, English, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Spanish
Further Information
You'll find more details about becoming a translator from the Institute of Translation and Interpreting.
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
    Foreign language skills
    Knowledge of english language
    To be thorough and pay attention to detail
    Customer service skills
    Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
    The ability to work on your own
    To be flexible and open to change
    Concentration skills
Digital Skills Level
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Other Requirements
You must be fluent in one or more languages as well as English, and have knowledge of the culture in the relevant country, usually gained from living and working there.
You may have to pass enhanced background checks if your work is related to national security.
What you will do
Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
Day to day tasks
In your day-to-day duties you could
reproduce text clearly, accurately and in the style intended by the author, use specialist translation software, use specialist knowledge, like technical terminology, research legal, technical or scientific terms, consult with experts to make sure the translation is accurate, keep your language skills up to date and current
Working environment
You could work in an office, from home or at a client's business.
Career Path & Progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
Most translators work freelance or through translation agencies. With experience you could start your own translation agency, or move into teaching.
You could specialise in a particular subject area like law, medicine or finance.
Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.
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