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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.

Annual Salary

variable

Average UK salary in 2022 was £33,200
(source Office for National Statistics)

Working hours

37 to 39 variable

You could work: evenings / weekends; attending events or appointments

0.5%
Future employment

There will be 0.5% more Translator jobs in 2027.

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.

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
For more information
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.

Requirements and restrictions

You'll need to:

  • 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.

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.

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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.

You'll find more details about becoming a translator from the Institute of Translation and Interpreting.

Skills required and how your skills match up

What skills are required?

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
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
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