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Book Translator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Digital Paid Retail Media Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$92K - $119K/yr

You own the strategy, the performance and the outcome of an assigned book of accounts, from ... Strategic translation. Turning ambiguous client goals into strategy, plans and narratives clients ...

Financial Controller

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Handle revenue recognition within the OTC book, encompassing fee income, spread income on matched ... translation adjustments where applicable. * Assist with transfer pricing documentation in ...

Director, Connectivity PMM

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Here, you'll do meaningful work that helps millions of people discover, book, and experience travel ... Lead the translation of product strategy, market opportunities, partner needs, and technical ...

Here, you'll do meaningful work that helps millions of people discover, book, and experience travel ... Lead the translation of product strategy, market opportunities, partner needs, and technical ...

Director, Connectivity PMM

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Here, you'll do meaningful work that helps millions of people discover, book, and experience travel ... Lead the translation of product strategy, market opportunities, partner needs, and technical ...

Here, you'll do meaningful work that helps millions of people discover, book, and experience travel ... Lead the translation of product strategy, market opportunities, partner needs, and technical ...

Director, Connectivity PMM

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Here, you'll do meaningful work that helps millions of people discover, book, and experience travel ... Lead the translation of product strategy, market opportunities, partner needs, and technical ...

Book Translator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$28.4K

$59K

$90.2K

How much do book translator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for book translator in Chicago, IL is $58,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $59,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a book translator?

To thrive as a Book Translator, you need native or near-native fluency in both the source and target languages, excellent writing skills, and a strong understanding of literary and cultural nuances. Familiarity with translation memory software, CAT tools like SDL Trados, and, in some cases, professional certification such as ATA accreditation is beneficial. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong time management are key soft skills that help set outstanding translators apart. These abilities ensure that translations are both accurate and engaging, preserving the intent, style, and tone of the original text while meeting deadlines.

What are the main challenges book translators face when adapting literature for new audiences?

Book Translators often encounter challenges such as conveying cultural references, idioms, or wordplay that may not have direct equivalents in the target language. Balancing fidelity to the original text with readability and resonance for the new audience requires both linguistic expertise and creative problem-solving. Additionally, translators may work closely with editors, publishers, and sometimes the original author to clarify meaning and ensure accuracy. These challenges make the work deeply collaborative and intellectually stimulating, and overcoming them is essential to producing high-quality, engaging translations.

Are book translator jobs still in demand?

Book translator jobs remain in demand as publishers seek to reach global audiences and translate diverse literary works. Success in this field often requires strong language skills, cultural knowledge, and proficiency with translation tools. The industry is competitive but continues to grow with increasing international publishing and digital content expansion.

How do you become a book translator?

To become a book translator, you typically need fluency in both the source and target languages, often supported by a relevant degree or certification in translation or linguistics. Gaining experience through internships, building a portfolio, and developing strong writing and cultural knowledge are important steps; proficiency with translation tools like CAT software can also be beneficial.

How to get into book translating?

To become a book translator, develop fluency in both the source and target languages, often through formal education such as a degree in translation, linguistics, or related fields. Gaining experience by translating sample texts, building a portfolio, and familiarizing yourself with translation tools like CAT software can help establish credibility; some translators also pursue certification from professional organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Book Translator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Book Translator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Book Translator job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,971 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

$50K - $55K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Review book and packaging layouts for proper production and printer issues such as bleed, foil, embossing layers, taglines, pagination, template, and construction.

  • Receive, check, and create print-ready PDF files, preflight files, and output color proofs to route using Gracol7 color calibration standards.

  • Upload plate-ready PDF files and proofs to printers, review soft proofs, request and review cover treatments via press proofs, and give final approval for bulk printing.


Job description

At Phoenix International Publications, Inc., we’re committed to crafting engaging, educational, and entertaining books for young readers to encourage a lifelong love of story time! Together with our licensing partners, including Disney, Nickelodeon, Sesame Workshop, Baby Einstein, World of Eric Carle, and more, we create award-winning sound books, song books, picture books, board books, and novelty books that provide a unique, interactive reading experience for children and their families around the world.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Prepress Coordinator. This full-time position is based in our Chicago office. Are you ready to join our fun and creative team?

To be considered for this opportunity, you must submit a cover letter, resume and salary expectations.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • For all assigned projects, review book and packaging layouts for proper production and printer issues, such as bleed, foil and embossing layers, taglines, pagination, template, and construction.
  • Receive and check all final project files, create print-ready PDF files, preflight files, and output color proofs to route using Gracol7 color calibration standards.
  • Upload plate-ready PDF files and proofs to printers, receive and review soft proofs for each project, request and review cover treatments via press proofs, and give printers the final OK to proceed to bulk printing.
  • Assist when issues relating to advance book samples arise by communicating directly with the printer.
  • Communicate daily with overseas printers on current projects.
  • Maintain complete project information, including all transactions and communication with printers.
  • Order, manage, and approve foil stamping and embossing tools for cover treatments.
  • Provide and communicate with team in Shenzhen regarding sew-in plush tags, hang tags, or other items not produced at our regular printers’ location.
  • Work closely with our Licensing team to submit files to licensing partners for review and approval. Update files accordingly.
  • Work closely with Publishing Operations to ensure title milestone dates are met.
  • Supply files to international vendors for translation and typesetting as needed.
  • Revise files for international title reprint updates, as needed.
  • Attend department meetings where the discussion is focused on new projects, delivery dates, and the status of current projects.
  • Ship proofs and other materials to vendors in conjunction with mailroom staff.
  • Stay up-to-date with current printing standards and processes.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • At least 1-2 years of professional production experience
  • Professional experience with InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator in a production capacity, including preparing files for printing
  • Knowledge of production specs, resolution, and file formatting
  • Proactive, detailed-oriented, and highly motivated
  • Time management, multitasking, and organizational skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision
  • Knowledge of Biblio is a plus
  • Knowledge of German, Spanish, or other languages is a plus (but not required)

Salary Range: $50,000 to $55,000 commensurate will experience and qualifications.

To be considered for this opportunity, you must submit a cover letter, resume and salary expectations.