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Freelance Japanese Game Localization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sega of America

Editor I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Stay current with video game trends, game terminology, first-party naming conventions, and relevant subcultures. * Solve localization challenges by finding effective English equivalents for Japanese ...

SEGA OF AMERICA INC

Editor I

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$30/hr

Stay current with video game trends, game terminology, first-party naming conventions, and relevant subcultures. * Solve localization challenges by finding effective English equivalents for Japanese ...

Sigma Group

Japanese Linguistic Projects (Remote)

... Localization - Validation of audio, video, images, sentences, or words. All tasks are remote ... offered for freelancers under a commercial contract . • Requirements We are looking for ...

Inficare Technologies

Translator

Sterling, VA · Remote

$44K - $58K/yr

Contract / Freelance Start Date: Immediate Job Summary We are seeking native foreign language ... Japanese * Swedish * German * Czech * Portuguese * Vietnamese * Romanian * Indonesian * Dutch

Sony

Licensing Coordinator

Santa Monica, CA · Hybrid

A passion for Japanese Anime, games and related culture is highly preferred. This position will be ... Japan, localization companies, and each licensee * Support submission and approval progress of ...

Sony Corporation

Licensing Coordinator

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

A passion for Japanese Anime, games and related culture is highly preferred. This position will be ... Japan, localization companies, and each licensee * Support submission and approval progress of ...

33 USA Inc.

Creative Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Your mission is to translate iconic Japanese IP into resonant brand experiences for North American ... Scout and manage external creative partners, freelance talent, and production studios to scale ...

33 USA Inc.

Creative Director

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

Your mission is to translate iconic Japanese IP into resonant brand experiences for North American ... Scout and manage external creative partners, freelance talent, and production studios to scale ...

33 USA Inc.

Creative Director

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

Your mission is to translate iconic Japanese IP into resonant brand experiences for North American ... Scout and manage external creative partners, freelance talent, and production studios to scale ...

33 USA Inc.

Event Division Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... Japanese, U.S., and global clients. Based in Los Angeles, this role will lead 33 USA's Event ... anime, games, and entertainment IPs. This position requires the ability to bridge creative and ...

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Freelance Japanese Game Localization information

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How much do freelance japanese game localization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance japanese game localization in the United States is $18.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Japanese Game Localization Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Japanese Game Localization Specialist, you need advanced proficiency in both Japanese and the target language, deep cultural understanding, and experience in translation or localization. Familiarity with CAT tools (like MemoQ or SDL Trados), subtitling software, and localization management systems is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication help ensure translations are accurate, engaging, and contextually appropriate. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality localized content that resonates with players and maintains the game's original intent.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance Japanese game localizers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance Japanese game localizers often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, cultural adaptation of in-game content, and maintaining consistency across large volumes of text. To address these, it's important to develop strong time management skills, stay updated on gaming and pop culture in both languages, and use tools like translation memories or glossaries. Collaborating closely with developers and other localization team members can also help clarify context and ensure high-quality translations.

What is freelance Japanese game localization?

Freelance Japanese game localization involves translating and adapting video game content from Japanese to another language, or vice versa, while maintaining the original tone, intent, and cultural context. Freelancers in this field work independently for game developers, publishers, or localization agencies. Their duties may include translating dialogue, user interfaces, manuals, and marketing materials, as well as performing quality assurance to ensure the localized version feels natural to the target audience. Successful freelance localizers often have strong language skills, cultural awareness, and familiarity with gaming terminology.

What is the difference between Freelance Japanese Game Localization vs Freelance Japanese Translators?

AspectFreelance Japanese Game LocalizationFreelance Japanese Translators
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, localization experience, industry knowledgeLanguage proficiency, translation certifications
Work EnvironmentGame development companies, freelance projects, remote workVarious industries, document translation, remote or onsite
Employer & Industry UsageVideo game industry, localization agenciesPublishing, business, legal, general translation
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on game-specific localization skillsGeneral translation skills across industries

Freelance Japanese Game Localization involves adapting video games for Japanese audiences, requiring industry-specific knowledge. Freelance Japanese Translators focus on translating documents across various fields. While both roles require language proficiency, localization specialists need additional gaming industry expertise, making their work more specialized.

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What job categories do people searching Freelance Japanese Game Localization jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Japanese Game Localization jobs are:
Freelance Japanese Game Localization jobs near you
Join Keywords Talent Community - Freelance Subtitle Translator/QC, SDH/CC

Join Keywords Talent Community - Freelance Subtitle Translator/QC, SDH/CC

Keywords Studios

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

Contractor

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Join the Keywords Studios Talent Community - Subtitle Translation/Localization Experts
Keywords Studios is the world's leading provider of technical and creative services for the video games and entertainment industries. With a global footprint of over 70 studios across 26 countries, we partner with the most iconic developers, publishers, and content creators - including Ubisoft, Electronic Arts, Riot Games, Bandai Namco, Netflix, and many more.
*Please note that this is NOT an official job post - it's a portal for anyone who's interested in pursuing freelance subtitling opportunities at Keywords to leave their contact and application for future consideration.
We're Growing Our Global Network of Subtitle & Localization Specialists
We are always looking to connect with talented professionals for the following roles:
  • Subtitle Translators - Experts in adapting scripts and dialogue with cultural nuance and accuracy
  • QCers - Meticulous reviewers ensuring flawless, audience-ready subtitles
  • SDH (Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing) Linguists - Specialists in accessible and inclusive subtitle creation
  • Template Linguists - Professionals crafting high-quality subtitle templates for global localization

If you would like to pursue freelance translation opportunities with us, please upload your CV in English through this job post(*non-English CV won't be considered), providing detailed information regarding your subtitling experience.
Once we have a relevant position available, we will reach out to you if your experience fits the bill.
Requirements
  • Native proficiency of the target language.
  • Strong command of the source language.
  • Experience in at least one of the following areas of the entertainment industry: localization QC, audiovisual translation and subtitling.
  • Experience with subtitle editing software and web/cloud technology.
  • Deep understanding of closed captioning and subtitling, and their common failures and technical challenges.
  • Solid understanding of nuances of subtitle and dub translations.
  • Working knowledge of cultural differences and best practices for subtitles and dub audio creation.
  • University degree or equivalent professional experience in the translation field.
  • Ability to quickly adapt to workflow/process changes and updates.
  • Great attention to detail, organization, problem-solving, analytical and multitasking skills.

**Please note: Signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) is required prior to starting the recruitment process.
**Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that we are only able to respond to candidates who meet the above requirements.
Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Work on popular titles across film, TV, streaming, games and much more.
  • Early access to unreleased content
  • Flexible project volume
  • 100% remote work
  • Set your own schedule
  • Constructive feedback and support

Our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Commitment:Keywords Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. If you require any adjustments during the process please let us know in your application. We are committed to creating a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion, respect and integrity, customer focus, and innovation. We especially welcome applications from candidates of underrepresented groups in the industry.
PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION POLICY
By providing your information in this application, you understand that we will collect and process your information in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Notice. For more information, please see our Applicant Privacy Notice at https://www.keywordsstudios.com/en/applicant-privacy-notice.
Role Information: EN
Studio: Keywords Studios
Area of Work: Media & Entertainment
Service: Media & Entertainment
Employment Type: Freelance
Working Pattern: Remote
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About Keywords Studios

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Whatever the scale of your project, whatever the time frame, whatever your location: Keywords is here for you, bringing our network of 13,000+ people and 70+ studios together to deliver the unified solutions you need. We offer everything necessary to ensure your project achieves its full potential and that strategic opportunities are turned into long-term growth. The games industry is complex and fast-moving. Working with Keywords allows you to remain lean and agile, and to remain focused on creating the world’s most immersive playing experiences. Our network of studios brings best-in-class experience, expertise, technology and capacity across the full development, release and player-support lifecycle.

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Burbank, CA, US

Social media

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