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Document Translator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Senior Hmong Interpreter

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$27.65 - $37.90/hr

... documents or medical records from the source language to the target language. Works in collaboration with other members of the language services team. Acts as a mentor for other translators and ...

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Document Translator information

See Minnesota salary details

$26.9K

$56K

$85.7K

How much do document translator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for document translator in Minnesota is $56,023.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What website pays you to translate?

Document translators can find paid work on freelance platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and ProZ, where clients post translation projects. These websites typically require profile verification and may involve setting your own rates and schedule.

Is AI replacing translator jobs?

AI technology is automating some aspects of translation, but human document translators remain essential for nuanced, accurate, and culturally sensitive work. Many translators now use AI tools to increase efficiency, but complex or specialized translations still require human expertise. The role is evolving rather than disappearing, with skills in editing and cultural understanding becoming increasingly valuable.

How can I become a document translator?

To become a document translator, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and a strong understanding of grammar and cultural nuances. Many employers prefer candidates with a relevant degree, certification such as the ATA (American Translators Association), or experience with translation tools like CAT software. Building a portfolio and gaining experience through freelance work or internships can also help establish your career in this field.

What does a Document Translator do?

A Document Translator is a professional who converts written content from one language to another while ensuring accuracy, meaning, and context are preserved. They work on various types of documents, such as legal contracts, business reports, academic papers, or technical manuals. Document Translators must have a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as cultural nuances to provide precise and effective translations. Their work enables communication and information sharing across language barriers.

How much do document translators make per hour?

Document translators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on factors such as language pair, experience, specialization, and whether they work freelance or for an organization. Highly specialized or in-demand languages may command higher rates, and certification can also influence pay. Many translators set their own rates when freelancing, while in-house positions often offer fixed hourly wages within this range.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Document Translator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Document Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, a strong grasp of grammar and idiomatic expressions, and often a relevant degree or certification in translation. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology databases, and quality assurance systems is typically required. Attention to detail, cultural sensitivity, and strong time management distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure accurate, contextually appropriate translations that meet client needs and professional standards.

What is the difference between Document Translator vs Localization Specialist?

AspectDocument TranslatorLocalization Specialist
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, translation certificationsLanguage skills, cultural knowledge, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentIndependent, freelance, or in translation agenciesCorporate, tech companies, or agencies focusing on product adaptation
Industry UsageLegal, medical, technical, general translationSoftware, websites, multimedia, product localization

Document Translators focus on converting written content from one language to another, ensuring accuracy and clarity. Localization Specialists go beyond translation, adapting content to fit cultural and regional preferences, often working on software, websites, and multimedia. While both roles require language skills, localization involves a broader understanding of cultural nuances and technical adaptation.

What are some common challenges faced by Document Translators and how can they be addressed?

Document Translators often encounter challenges such as handling industry-specific terminology, maintaining the original meaning and tone, and meeting tight deadlines. To address these, translators typically use specialized glossaries, consult with subject matter experts, and utilize translation memory tools to increase consistency and efficiency. Collaborating closely with clients or project managers also helps ensure accuracy and timely delivery. Developing strong research skills and staying updated with language trends are essential for overcoming these challenges.
What are the most commonly searched types of Document Translator jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Document Translator jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Document Translator job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,023 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Translator - US-Based Only

Translator - US-Based Only

Prisma International, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN • On-site, Remote

$45K - $60K/yr

Contractor

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

About Prisma International, Inc. - Prisma is a dynamic and growing language services provider committed to delivering exceptional translation solutions to clients worldwide. We pride ourselves on our dedication to linguistic excellence and client satisfaction. We are expanding our independent contractor team and seeking experienced US-based Translators to join us.
TRANSLATOR Job Posting - Prisma International
We are seeking experienced, professional Translators to join our independent contractor team. You will be providing written translation from English into your native (target) language. To be considered for hire, you must meet all minimum requirements listed in this job ad. NOTE: Qualified candidates must reside in the United States and provide a three-year history of experience completing written translations to state and/or federal government agencies. Other minimum requirements are stated below. Translation project assignments are assigned on an as-needed basis according to your availability.
TARGET LANGUAGES:
Albanian, Amharic, Bosnian, Chuukese, Danish, Finnish, German, Haitian Creole, Hindi, Hmong, Italian, Japanese, Karen, Khmer, Korean, Laotian, Norwegian, Oromo, Portuguese (BR & PT), Somali, Swahili, Swedish, Tagalog, Thai, Tibetan, Tigrinya, Turkish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese.
If your language specialty is not listed above, you are welcome to apply. You must meet all requirements to be considered.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - You must meet ALL of the following requirements:
  • You must reside in the United States.
  • You must be 18+ years of age.
  • Three (3) years of professional experience providing written translations to state and/or federal government agencies. The resume/CV you submit must clearly outline your government agency translation history. Candidates who submit resumes without a three-year timeline of fed/state government agency experience will be disqualified.
  • Certified by a translation industry organization such as: American Translators Association (ATA), Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI), Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR), etc. --OR-- a Bachelor's degree (or higher) in translation or other language-related discipline from an accredited college or university. If onboarded, you will be asked to submit proof of accreditation(s). Five+ years of professional translation services to state and/or federal government agencies may be accepted in lieu of the above.
  • Willingness to abide by Prisma's Master Service Agreement (MSA) and related Addenda.
  • Fluent in English and the target language.
  • Reliable desktop PC or laptop with dedicated, secure, high-speed internet connection.
  • Experience using modern CAT tools (e.g. XTM, Trados, etc.).
  • Adobe Acrobat on your device and the ability to use Adobe's markup tools on a PDF file.

TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide written translations using a Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tool. We provide XTM access to you.
  • Adhere to all project work instructions, glossaries and reference materials provided to you.
  • Ensure the source content's concept, style and register are culturally and linguistically appropriate for the target language.
  • Perform language quality check steps (before delivery) to ensure the target translation is error-free and true to the meaning of the source document.
  • Deliver completed translation jobs by the given deadlines and project budgets.
  • Review formatted target language PDF files for accuracy; mark any corrections needed. Using Adobe mark-up tools is required.
  • Communicate in a timely and professional manner with Prisma team members.
  • Willfully participate in quality management processes, e.g. Corrective Action Reports (CARs), Root Cause Analyses (RCAs), solution implementation.
  • Take all measures necessary to protect and keep private sensitive information shared with you to carry out translation projects (e.g. PHI, PII, SBU).
  • Adhere to policies and processes defined in Prisma's Master Service Agreement (MSA) and the Prisma Vendor Guide.

OTHER ATTRIBUTES
  • Excellent communication skills and quick responses to Prisma project team requests.
  • Ability to accommodate fast turnarounds for small word count projects.
  • After hours and weekend ability is a plus (at your discretion).

IMPORTANT APPLICANT SECURITY NOTICE:
Prisma will never ask for payment information or fee transfers during recruitment or employment preparation. Legitimate outreach for information will only originate from official @prisma.com email addresses.
Requirements
See full list of minimum requirements above.