Interpreters and Translators

Translate written or spoken material from one language to another.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT INTERPRETER OR TRANSLATOR CAREERS

You may be eligible to join an elite workforce if you are fluent in more than one language. Interpreters and translators are needed in business, government, the military, the media, social services, the judicial system, travel and tourism, and other fields where cultures collide. However, simply speaking a second language is insufficient. 

Employers in these areas prioritise employees with college degrees in foreign language majors. One application where these individuals are in high demand is the interpretation of medical and legal information in hospitals and legal settings, particularly in inner cities with substantial immigrant populations. 

The possibilities are fascinating, with positions that send you to high-level meetings and exotic locations. You might even work from home interpreting operating manuals. Precision is essential because you are the link between people who want to deliver information and those who need to understand it. 

Understanding how cultural differences effect communication might help you get your message across while avoiding embarrassing snafus for you and your employer.

Employment Projections

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Wages


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Characteristics

Level of responsibilities
Leadership
Communication with others
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Physical demands
Exposure to job hazards
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Comfort of the work setting
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Competition for this position
Dealing and handling conflicts
Critical decision making

Activities

Communicating with Persons Outside Organization Know More
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Know More
Getting Information Know More
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Know More
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Know More
Processing Information Know More
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Know More

Areas of Study

Clerical Know More
Communications and Media Know More
Computers and Electronics Know More
Customer and Personal Service Know More
Education and Training Know More
English Language Know More
Foreign Language Know More
Law and Government Know More

Degrees

Colleges

Top Skills

Active Learning Know More
Active Listening Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Learning Strategies Know More
Monitoring Know More
Reading Comprehension Know More
Speaking Know More
Writing Know More