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Interpreter / Translator

Quick Facts

Median Salary$57,781
Most Common EducationHigh school or GED
Projected 10-Year Growth-10.89%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment

What They Do

An Interpreter or Translator uses language and communication skills to convert words and concepts from one spoken language to another, or from spoken language to sign language. Works with written information and texts to create translations that are accurate and capture the style and nuance of the original text.


Core Tasks:

  • Follow ethical codes that protect the confidentiality of information.
  • Translate messages simultaneously or consecutively into specified languages, orally or by using hand signs, maintaining message content, context, and style as much as possible.
  • Listen to speakers' statements to determine meanings and to prepare translations, using electronic listening systems as necessary.
  • Compile terminology and information to be used in translations, including technical terms such as those for legal or medical material.
  • Refer to reference materials, such as dictionaries, lexicons, encyclopedias, and computerized terminology banks, as needed to ensure translation accuracy.
  • Check translations of technical terms and terminology to ensure that they are accurate and remain consistent throughout translation revisions.
  • Identify and resolve conflicts related to the meanings of words, concepts, practices, or behaviors.
  • Compile information on content and context of information to be translated and on intended audience.

What to expect as an Interpreter / Translator

1Earn a High school or GED Diploma

30% of people achieve this level of education.

2Gain skills and experience

See Interpreter / Translator related courses on Tallo

3Land a job

2949 openings for Interpreters / Translators

Career Progression

in United States (Nation)

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