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Language Translation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Coordinator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... language and business support services, including translation, interpretation, multicultural marketing, website globalization, subtitling, voiceovers, staffing services, multicultural marketing ...

Dental Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Dental

Other duties include instrument sterilization, maintaining dental office cleanliness and asepsis, assisting in language translation between doctor and patient, and other front office duties as needed.

Dental Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Dental

Other duties include instrument sterilization, maintaining dental office cleanliness and asepsis, assisting in language translation between doctor and patient, and other front office duties as needed.

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Language Translation information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$41

How much do language translation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for language translation in California is $27.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is language translation?

Language translation is the process of converting written or spoken content from one language into another while maintaining the original meaning, tone, and context. Professional translators use their linguistic skills and cultural knowledge to accurately convey messages between languages. This service is essential for global communication in fields like business, law, healthcare, and literature. High-quality translation ensures that information is accessible and clear to speakers of different languages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a language translator?

To excel as a Language Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, a deep understanding of grammar and cultural nuances, and often a bachelor's degree in translation or linguistics. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology databases, and sometimes certifications like ATA (American Translators Association) are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, time management, and effective communication set standout translators apart. These skills ensure accurate, culturally sensitive translations that maintain the intent of the original message and meet client needs.

What are some common challenges faced by language translators when working on projects with tight deadlines?

Language translators often encounter challenges meeting tight deadlines, such as managing large volumes of content while maintaining accuracy and consistency. The need to quickly research specialized terminology and adapt translations for different cultural contexts adds pressure. Additionally, translators may have to coordinate with project managers, editors, or subject matter experts to ensure quality, which can be difficult when time is limited. Effective time management and familiarity with translation tools are essential to overcome these hurdles.

What is the difference between Language Translation vs Interpreter?

AspectLanguage TranslatorInterpreter
Primary RoleConverts written text from one language to anotherConverts spoken language in real-time
Work EnvironmentOffices, freelance, remoteConferences, meetings, live events
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, translation certificationsLanguage proficiency, interpretation certifications
Industry UsagePublishing, legal, medical, businessConferences, diplomatic events, legal proceedings

While both language translators and interpreters facilitate cross-language communication, translators work with written documents, whereas interpreters focus on spoken language in real-time settings. Their skills, work environments, and certifications differ, but both roles are essential in global communication and require high language proficiency.

Are language translators in demand?

Yes, language translators are in demand due to globalization and the need for cross-cultural communication in various industries such as healthcare, legal, and technology. The profession often requires proficiency in multiple languages and familiarity with translation tools like CAT software, with job growth expected to remain steady in the coming years.

How do I get a job as a language translator?

To become a language translator, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and often a relevant degree or certification in translation or linguistics. Gaining experience through internships, building a portfolio, and familiarizing yourself with translation tools like CAT software can improve job prospects. Certification from organizations such as the American Translators Association can also enhance credibility and employability.

How much do language translators earn?

Language translators' earnings vary based on experience, language pairs, and work setting. In general, freelance translators earn between $20 and $50 per hour, while salaried positions typically pay between $40,000 and $70,000 annually. Specialized skills and certifications can lead to higher pay.

How much does a language translator make?

The average salary for a language translator varies by experience, language pair, and location, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Freelance translators may earn per word or project rates, which can fluctuate based on complexity and demand. Certification and specialized skills can also influence earning potential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Language Translation jobs in California?

The most popular types of Language Translation jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Language Translation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,752 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Translation Program Coordinator - Spanish

Lucile Packard Children's Hospital

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Category: Ancillary Administrative & Patient Services
Job Type: Full time
Shift: Day - 08 Hour
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Req: LP_011096-2240
Employee Group: SEIU
Benefits Eligible: Yes
Remote Eligible: Yes
Department: Interpreter Services
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
At Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, we know world-renowned care begins with world-class caring. That's why we combine advanced technologies and breakthrough discoveries with family-centered care. It's why we provide our caregivers with continuing education and state-of-the-art facilities, like the newly remodeled Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford. And it's why we need caring, committed people on our team - like you. Join us on our mission to heal humanity, one child and family at a time.
Job ID: LP_011096-2240
JOB SUMMARY
This paragraph summarizes the general nature, level and purpose of the job.
The Translation Program Coordinator is responsible for developing, coordinating and managing translation services, for training and assessment of staff, interns and volunteers for translation services. Conducts medical and general interpreting/translating for staff, patients, and families for Stanford Health Services and other contracting institutions. Ensures translation process is followed according to department guidelines.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patient rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.
Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the hospital's policies and procedures, including its Service Standards and its Code of Conduct.
* Conducts translating proficiency testing for all full and part-time interpreter employees and interns.
* Coordinates workflow of all translation assignments, including delegating translation assignments and ensuring successful completion of all assigned projects.
* Develops language/translation courses for interns.
* Develops policies, financial planning and organization of the translation program.
* Edits all translations providing feedback to the translation team including monitoring the translators' performance and providing feedback.
* Ensures translation process is followed according to department guidelines.
* Handles requests for translations from external customers including other hospitals, pharmaceutical companies and outside institutions.
* Communicates and manages the procedure, payment, and delivery timeframe.
* Coordinates with outside contractors for certain languages and establishes working relationships with contractors and vendors.
* Responsible for invoicing, billing and collection upon delivery of final product for external customers.
* Handles requests for translations from the hospital units and clinics and assigns work orders to in house translators.
* Must possess high verbal and written skills in both English and the appropriate language.
* Organizes educational translation meetings and prepares presentations on translation topics such as grammar, punctuation, medical terminology, etc) in staff meetings.
* Performs all functions listed under the job description for interpreter/translator.
* Responsible for Translation quality including edits to all Spanish translations including format, grammar, syntax, usage, spelling, etc.
* Reviews delivery of assignments of electronic files and ensures fonts are legible (Asian, Arabic, Russian languages).
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities as well as possession of any required licenses or certifications is qualifying.
Education: Bachelors degree in translation and interpretation from an accredited college or university.
Experience: Three (3) years of progressively responsible and directly related work experience.
Licensure/Certification: ATA (American Translator's Association) certification. ATA certification may be waived with a Master's degree in translation and interpretation.
KNOWLEDGE
These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to perform successfully the essential functions of the job and are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education or licensure/certification.
* Ability to adjust communications to fit the needs and level of understanding of the receiver.
* Ability to establish and maintain excellent client relationships, exhibit exemplary interpersonal skills and exercise sound judgment and professionalism in business and personnel matters.
* Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
* Ability to remain calm under pressure and apply sound judgment Ability to solve problems and identify solutions.
* Ability to work well with individuals at all levels of the organization.
* Knowledge of cultural and perceptual factors that may affect patient treatment and communication Knowledge of Medical Terminology.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The Physical Requirements and Working Conditions in which the job is typically performed are available from the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Pay Range
Compensation is based on the level and requirements of the role.
Salary within our ranges may also be determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, location, and abilities, as required by the role, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Typically, new team members join at the minimum to mid salary range.
Minimum to Midpoint Range (Hourly): $44.59 to $50.04
Stanford Medicine Children's Health (SMCH) strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all of its policies and practices, including the area of employment. Accordingly, SMCH does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements, and where applicable, in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.