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Game Translation Japanese Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

... our video games, hardware systems, and collaborations with partners on a range of other ... Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes. * Receives ...

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

... our video games, hardware systems, and collaborations with partners on a range of other ... Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes. * Receives ...

Sony Corporation

Localization Translator

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... on translation and localization of Japanese games and anime titles to North America. The ideal candidate must have a passion for Japanese anime and related culture. The ideal candidate must be ...

Soulbound

Japan Community Manager (Gaming)

... 5ch/game forums * Work with Japanese MMO guilds to bring organised groups into Soulbound ... Not machine translation. Native-level writing that feels right to a Japanese audience * Run ...

Sega of America

Editor I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30/hr

... partnered translation team. The primary responsibility is to review raw Japanese-to-English ... Edit and rewrite localized game text and related documentation, including voiced and unvoiced ...

SEGA OF AMERICA INC

Editor I

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$30/hr

... partnered translation team. The primary responsibility is to review raw Japanese-to-English ... Edit and rewrite localized game text and related documentation, including voiced and unvoiced ...

33 USA Inc.

Creative Director

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

Cross-Cultural Translation: Localize and adapt the "Tone & Manner" of Japanese IP to align with ... Direct experience in the entertainment industry (Anime, Gaming, or Pop Culture). - Experiential ...

33 USA Inc.

Creative Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Cross-Cultural Translation: Localize and adapt the "Tone & Manner" of Japanese IP to align with ... Direct experience in the entertainment industry (Anime, Gaming, or Pop Culture). - Experiential ...

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Game Translation Japanese information

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How much do game translation japanese jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for game translation japanese in the United States is $25.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Game Translation Japanese vs Game Localization Specialist?

AspectGame Translation JapaneseGame Localization Specialist
CredentialsProficiency in Japanese, translation certificationsProficiency in Japanese, localization experience, cultural knowledge
Work EnvironmentTranslation teams, freelance or in-houseCross-functional teams, project management
Industry UsageFocus on translating game text and dialogueAdapts entire game content for target markets
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding translation scope and skillsUnderstanding broader localization process and cultural adaptation

Game Translation Japanese involves converting game text and dialogue into Japanese, focusing on linguistic accuracy. Game Localization Specialist encompasses a broader role, including cultural adaptation, UI adjustments, and ensuring the game resonates with local audiences. While translation is a key component, localization requires additional skills in cultural context and project coordination.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Translator (Japanese), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Translator (Japanese), you need fluency in both Japanese and the target language, a deep understanding of gaming terminology, and often a relevant degree or translation certification. Familiarity with translation management systems, CAT tools, and game localization platforms is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, cultural sensitivity, and strong communication skills help ensure accurate and engaging translations that resonate with players. These skills are crucial for delivering authentic gaming experiences across languages, preserving context, and enhancing player satisfaction.

What is game translation Japanese?

Game translation Japanese refers to the process of converting video game content from Japanese into another language, or from another language into Japanese. This includes translating dialogue, menus, instructions, and sometimes even graphics or voiceovers to ensure the game is accessible and enjoyable for players in different regions. Game translators must have a strong understanding of both languages and cultures, as well as familiarity with gaming terminology. Their work helps games reach a wider audience and ensures that players have an authentic and immersive experience.

What are some common challenges translators face when localizing Japanese games, and how can they be addressed?

Translators working on Japanese game localization often encounter challenges such as culturally specific references, idiomatic expressions, and maintaining the original tone and intent of the script. Additionally, adapting humor, puns, and character nuances for a different audience can be complex. Effective collaboration with developers, writers, and QA testers, as well as a thorough understanding of both cultures, helps ensure that the final translation is both accurate and engaging. Continuous communication and feedback loops within the localization team are crucial to overcoming these hurdles.
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Game Translation Japanese jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Translation Japanese job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 71% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,349 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Nintendo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 188 rated software companies

Job description

Nintendo of America

About Nintendo of America: From the launch of the Nintendo Entertainment System more 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 including Mario, Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Animal Crossing, Pikmin and Splatoon 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 at https://www.nintendo.com/. 

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

  • Translates confidential e-mail and other written documentation from Japanese to English, and English to Japanese.
  • Provides verbal interpretation for meetings and conference calls.
  • Chooses the equivalent expression in the target language that fully conveys and best matches the meaning intended in the source language (referred to as congruity judgment).
  • May manage various communication tools and database and contributes to improve usability and efficiency.
  • 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.
  • 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-function collaboration.
  • Interpretation experience strongly preferred.
  • Multi-tasks under pressure in a fast-paced, highly confidential environment with fluctuating priorities and deadlines.
  • Requires working knowledge and skills developed through formal training, licensing/certification or work experience.
  • Requires established skills to perform a range of routine activities; this may include application of administrative 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.

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