1

Contract Translator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes. * Receives ... This contract position includes the base pay range listed below and is eligible for benefits ...

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes. * Receives briefings or prepares through reading and study on subject to be discussed prior to interpreting session.

Translator

Sterling, VA · Remote

$44K - $58K/yr

Contract / Freelance Start Date: Immediate Job Summary We are seeking native foreign language ... Verify translation accuracy, completeness, and clarity * Identify and flag mistranslations ...

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $66K/yr

On an as needed basis, reviews the work of contract proofreaders and translators. The Hourly Translator works independently performing a variety of professional translation activities under the ...

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA

$50K - $66K/yr

On an as needed basis, reviews the work of contract proofreaders and translators. The Hourly Translator works independently performing a variety of professional translation activities under the ...

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

On an as needed basis, reviews the work of contract proofreaders and translators. The Hourly Translator works independently performing a variety of professional translation activities under the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Translator information

See salary details

$27.5K

$57.2K

$87.5K

How much do contract translator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract translator in the United States is $57,200.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Contract Translators face when working with legal or business documents?

Contract Translators often work with dense, technical language and complex legal or business terminology, which can be challenging to translate accurately while preserving the original intent. They may also encounter tight deadlines, requiring efficient time management and prioritization of tasks. Working independently, they must ensure the confidentiality of sensitive documents and frequently communicate with clients or legal professionals to clarify ambiguous terms. Staying current with industry-specific language and changes in regulations is important for maintaining translation quality and client trust.

Is AI replacing translator jobs?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist translators by providing machine translation and productivity tools, but it does not fully replace human translators, especially for nuanced or complex language tasks. Professional translators still play a vital role in ensuring accuracy, cultural context, and quality in translation work, often working alongside AI tools to improve efficiency.

What is a Contract Translator job?

A Contract Translator translates legal agreements, contracts, and other formal documents from one language to another while ensuring accuracy, clarity, and legal consistency. They must have expertise in legal terminology and an understanding of both source and target languages' legal systems. Contract Translators often work with law firms, corporations, and government agencies to ensure precise communication in legal matters.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Translator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Translator, you should possess fluency in at least two languages, a solid understanding of translation theory, and knowledge of legal or business terminology relevant to the contracts you handle. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology management software, and professional certifications such as ATA (American Translators Association) can be highly beneficial. Strong attention to detail, time management, and effective communication with clients or project managers are critical soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accuracy, meeting deadlines, and delivering reliable translations in a freelance or contract-based setting.

What type of translator gets paid the most?

In the translation field, specialized translators such as legal, medical, or technical translators tend to earn higher wages due to their expertise and the complexity of their work. Certified translators with advanced skills and experience in high-demand languages or industries often command higher rates, especially when working on complex or sensitive projects.

How much does a freelance translator make?

Freelance translators typically earn between $20 and $60 per hour, depending on language pairs, experience, and specialization. Many work on a per-word basis, with rates ranging from $0.05 to $0.30 per word. Earnings can vary widely based on project volume, client base, and skill level.

How do I become a freelance translator?

To become a freelance translator, develop fluency in at least two languages and gain relevant translation skills through education or training. Build a portfolio of sample translations, create profiles on freelance platforms, and establish a reliable work process to find clients and manage projects independently.
More about Contract Translator jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Translator jobs? Cities with the most Contract Translator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Translator jobs? The most popular types of Translator jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Translator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Translator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Translator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,200 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Nintendo of America Inc.

Redmond, WA • On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Other

Medical

Re-posted 7 days ago


Nintendo rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

83rd of 204 rated software companies


Job description

Nintendo of America

About Nintendo of America:From the launch of the Nintendo Entertainment Systemmore than 30 years ago, Nintendo's mission has been to create smiles through unique entertainment experiences. Here at Nintendo of America Inc., we deliver on this mission by partnering closely with Nintendo Co., Ltd., to bring Nintendo's iconic and cherished franchises includingMario,Donkey Kong,The Legend of Zelda,Metroid,Animal Crossing,PikminandSplatoon across the Americas through our video games, hardware systems, and collaborations with partners on a range of other entertainment initiatives like feature films and theme parks.

Based in Redmond, Wash., Nintendo of America serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Americas. We are an equal opportunity employer offering a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, and the diverse consumers and communities we call home. For more information about Nintendo, please visit the company's website athttps://www.nintendo.com/.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

  • Translates confidential e-mail and other written documentation from Japanese to English, and English toJapanese.
  • Provides verbal interpretation for meetings and conference calls.
  • Chooses the equivalent expression in the target language that fully conveys and best matches the meaningintended in the source language (referred to as congruity judgment).
  • May manage various communication tools and database and contributes to improve usability andefficiency.
  • Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes.
  • Receives briefings or prepares through reading and study on subject to be discussed prior to interpretingsession.
  • May act as liaison with Japanese developers and assists in scheduling and planning.
  • Coordinates with internal and external groups on project management and short to long-term planning.
  • Performs all job responsibilities in strict adherence to corporate prototype security policy and procedures.
  • Provides excellent customer service to internal and external contacts.
  • The scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands.
SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS:
  • Two to four years of related experience required.
  • Two years of translation experience.
  • Native level in verbal and written communication in English and Japanese.
  • Intermediate to high level of proficiency in MS Office applications.
  • Excellent understanding of Japanese business culture and etiquette.
  • Extensive knowledge of video game software/hardware and industry.
  • Excellent verbal/written communication and relationship-building skills, problem-solving and cross-functioncollaboration.
  • Interpretation experience strongly preferred.
  • Multi-tasks under pressure in a fast-paced, highly confidential environment with fluctuating priorities anddeadlines.
  • Requires working knowledge and skills developed through formal training, licensing/certification or workexperience.
  • Requires established skills to perform a range of routine activities; this may include application ofadministrative or analytical/technical skills.
  • Professional training in Translation/Interpretation or equivalent experience.
  • Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 certification or equivalent capability.

Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States to be considered. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

This position is hybrid in Redmond, WA. Hybrid positions require regular onsite work following the schedule and guidelines for their division. This position is not open to fully remote status at this time.

This contract position includes the base pay range listed below and is eligible for benefits through the employing agency. Agency benefits include eligibility for medical insurance, employee assistance program, and paid sick leave. All benefits are subject to elections, eligibility requirements, plan and program terms. Benefits offerings will be confirmed at the time of offer by the employing agency, and may differ depending on the employing agency partner.

Pay range:
$30—$45 USD

What Nintendo employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom