Translator

Entry Requirements:

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:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

OtherRoutes

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.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• 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
• active listening skills
• the ability to read English
• excellent written communication skills
• administration skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• a good memory
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Translators convert the written word from the 'source language' into the 'target language', making sure that the meaning is the same.

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

Location : You could work in an office, from home or at a client's business.

Salary:

Starter : variable
Experienced : variable

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours variable

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends attending events or appointments

Career Path:

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.