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Japanese Video Game Translation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes. * Receives ... Extensive knowledge of video game software/hardware and industry. * Excellent verbal/written ...

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes. * Receives ... Extensive knowledge of video game software/hardware and industry. * Excellent verbal/written ...

Sega of America

Editor I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Collaborate with editors, translators, and project team members on assigned projects; communicate ... Passionate and active video game players. * Knowledge of SEGA's IPs. * Understanding of Japanese ...

SEGA OF AMERICA INC

Editor I

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$30/hr

Collaborate with editors, translators, and project team members on assigned projects; communicate ... Passionate and active video game players. * Knowledge of SEGA's IPs. * Understanding of Japanese ...

Sony Corporation

Localization Translator

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... translation and localization of Japanese games and anime titles to North America. The ideal ... A minimum of 1-3 years of relevant localization experience OR a minimum of 1-3 years of video game ...

LanguageLine Solutions

Japanese Interpreter

$18 - $21/hr

Video-Phone Interpreter Pay: $18 - $21 per hour * Compensation will not be less than any applicable ... This position does not involve written translation however translators and other skilled linguists ...

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Japanese Video Game Translation information

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How much do japanese video game translation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for japanese video game translation in the United States is $15.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Japanese Video Game Translator, you need advanced proficiency in both Japanese and the target language, as well as a solid understanding of gaming terminology and culture. Experience with CAT (computer-assisted translation) tools, localization software, and sometimes relevant certifications like JLPT N1/N2 are typically required. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication skills help translators adapt dialogue and cultural references seamlessly for new audiences. These skills are crucial to ensuring that games are engaging, culturally appropriate, and enjoyable for players worldwide.

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

AspectJapanese Video Game TranslationJapanese Video Game Localization
FocusConverting text and dialogue accurately from Japanese to target languageAdapting cultural references, UI, and content for target audience
SkillsLanguage proficiency, translation skills, understanding of game contextTranslation skills, cultural knowledge, adaptation abilities
Work EnvironmentTypically individual or small team, working closely with developersCollaborative, involving cultural consultants and testers

Japanese Video Game Translation primarily involves converting game text accurately, while Japanese Video Game Localization includes cultural adaptation to ensure the game resonates with the target audience. Both roles require language skills, but localization demands additional cultural understanding and creative adaptation.

What is Japanese video game translation?

Japanese video game translation is the process of converting video game content originally created in Japanese into another language, such as English, while maintaining the game's original meaning, tone, and cultural context. This includes translating dialogue, menus, item descriptions, and sometimes even adapting jokes or cultural references for the target audience. Skilled translators often work closely with localization teams to ensure the gameplay experience feels natural to players in the new language. The goal is to provide an engaging and authentic experience that preserves the intent of the original creators.

What are some common challenges faced in Japanese video game translation, and how can I prepare for them?

Japanese video game translation often involves more than direct language conversion; you'll encounter challenges such as localizing cultural references, adapting humor, and maintaining character voice while ensuring technical accuracy. Tight deadlines and collaboration with developers, editors, and QA testers are common, so strong communication and multitasking skills are essential. To prepare, familiarize yourself with gaming terminology, stay updated on both Japanese and target-language pop culture, and practice translating diverse in-game content while considering context and player experience.
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Japanese Video Game Translation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Japanese Video Game Translation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 32% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,769 per year, or $15.3 per hour.
CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Nintendo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 190 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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