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Legal Translator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Telugu Translator, DOJ LSS

Washington, DC

$49K - $65K/yr

Source material will contain legal, business, public administrative, medical, scientific, financial ... Minimum of two (2) years of experience in translation Qualifying scores ILR 3 minimum or equivalent ...

Thai Translator, DOJ LSS

Washington, DC

$49K - $65K/yr

Source material will contain legal, business, public administrative, medical, scientific, financial ... Minimum of two (2) years of experience in translation Qualifying scores ILR 3 minimum or equivalent ...

Tamil Translator, DOJ LSS

Washington, DC

$49K - $65K/yr

Source material will contain legal, business, public administrative, medical, scientific, financial ... Minimum of two (2) years of experience in translation Qualifying scores ILR 3 minimum or equivalent ...

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Legal Translator information

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$27.5K

$57.2K

$87.5K

How much do legal translator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for legal translator in the United States is $57,200.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Legal Translator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Legal Translator, strong bilingual or multilingual proficiency, expertise in legal terminology, and a relevant degree or certification in translation or law are essential. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology management software, and legal documentation systems is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, discretion, and strong communication skills are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate, confidential, and high-quality translation of complex legal materials, reducing the risk of misinterpretation.

What are some typical challenges faced by Legal Translators?

Legal Translators often encounter dense and complex legal texts that require precise wording to maintain the original meaning and avoid liability issues. Working with tight deadlines and adapting to the legal systems of different countries can also be demanding, especially when handling urgent or high-stakes documents. Collaboration with legal professionals, such as attorneys and paralegals, is common to resolve ambiguities or clarify source material. Being proactive in researching evolving legal terminology and continuously updating your knowledge is key to overcoming these challenges and delivering reliable translations.

What does a Legal Translator do?

A Legal Translator converts legal documents, contracts, and texts from one language to another while preserving their precise meaning and legal accuracy. They must have expertise in legal terminology, regulations, and cultural nuances to ensure translations remain valid and legally binding. Legal Translators often work with law firms, courts, and international organizations to facilitate communication across language barriers. Their role requires high attention to detail, confidentiality, and a strong understanding of both source and target legal systems.

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Telugu Translator, DOJ LSS

The Unconventional

Washington, DC

$49K - $65K/yr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Summary: The Unconventional (TU) is seeking a qualified Telugu Translator to support the Department of Justice (DOJ) with Translation, Interpretation, Transcription and other Linguistic Support Services (LSS). Such activities may include the translation of all manner of documents (written and electronic) and video and/or audio media content (e.g., compact discs, .wav files), as well as ancillary services, such as court and deposition interpretation. Source material will contain legal, business, public administrative, medical, scientific, financial, historical, geographical, and military terminology, and concepts, including those dealing with technology as used in the sciences (chemical, physical, cyber)

The specialized terminology used to express concepts in any of the given subject areas usually vary considerably from everyday usage in any of the target or source languages in question. The material to be translated, transcribed, or interpreted is legal in nature. Materials may be provided to the Contractor in a variety of formats, including electronic or hard copies of books, journal articles, reports, manuscripts, letters, legal documents, memoranda, multi-media presentations, spreadsheets, email correspondence, SMS and MMS messages, and audio or video files.

The substance of the materials may vary widely from highly complex, technical, and specialized information, to very informal, street language and textspeak. Examples of subject matter areas include: medical and autopsy reports; chemical lab reports; bank statements, cryptocurrency transaction tracking, and wire transfers; charging documents, warrants, treaties, statutes, regulations, court decisions, executive decisions, extradition requests, and mutual legal assistance requests; informal communications using coded language, highly time-sensitive treaty or extradition matters, and law enforcement sensitive information. All of the material made available to the Contractor will be considered "sensitive," requiring that strict controls and confidentiality measures are in place at all times.Required Qualifications: Minimum of two (2) years of experience in translation

Qualifying scores ILR 3 minimum or equivalent on language/translation tests. Must have lived 3 of the last 5 years in the U.S. (does not have to be consecutive)

Must have at least 1 year of experience working with a law enforcement and/or legal department. Must be a U.S. citizen

Know both English and foreign language vocabularies used in formal, legal, diplomatic, consultative, and casual modes of communication in various contexts, including colloquial slang, idiosyncratic slang, and regionalisms. Know specialized vocabulary (and terminology) in both English and the foreign language related to the Government's varied roles and missions, as well as possess research and analytical skills to make critical judgments regarding terminology, including expertise in the use of translation resources, monolingual reference materials, and online material. Write in their native language fluently, but still have professional command of the non-native language.

Translate in a manner that is factually and conceptually accurate without changes, omissions, or additions. Preserve the tone and register of source language materials. Abide by relevant code of linguist ethics.

Proficient in using Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools, with a strong emphasis on SDL Trados Studio. Clearance: Active Public Trust or higher security clearance Location: Remote / National Capitol Region / Various CONUS Locations Travel: Some travel may be requiredRequired Qualifications: Minimum of two (2) years of experience in translation. Qualifying scores ILR 3 minimum or equivalent on language/translation tests.

Must have lived 3 of the last 5 years in the U.S. (does not have to be consecutive). Must have at least 1 year of experience working with a law enforcement and/or legal department

Must be a U.S. citizen. Know both English and foreign language vocabularies used in formal, legal, diplomatic, consultative, and casual modes of communication in various contexts, including colloquial slang, idiosyncratic slang, and regionalisms

Know specialized vocabulary (and terminology) in both English and the foreign language related to the Government's varied roles and missions, as well as possess research and analytical skills to make critical judgments regarding terminology, including expertise in the use of translation resources, monolingual reference materials, and online material. Write in their native language fluently, but still have professional command of the non-native language. Translate in a manner that is factually and conceptually accurate without changes, omissions, or additions.

Preserve the tone and register of source language materials. Abide by relevant code of linguist ethics. Proficient in using Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools, with a strong emphasis on SDL Trados Studio.

Clearance: Active Public Trust or higher security clearance Location: Remote / National Capitol Region / Various CONUS Locations Travel: Some travel may be required