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Manga Translation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... favorite manga to the English-speaking market! As an Editor at VIZ Media, you'll have the ... Oversee freelance translators, rewriters, and letterers for the production of graphic novels ...

Senior AI Solutions Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$59.50 - $76.75/hr

We super-serve over 100 million anime and manga fans across 200+ countries and territories, and ... Manage stakeholders proactively: act as the translator between business needs and technical reality ...

Manga Translation information

See salary details

$27.5K

$57.2K

$87.5K

How much do manga translation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for manga translation 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 is manga translation?

Manga translation is the process of converting the original Japanese text in manga (Japanese comics) into another language, while preserving the story, tone, and cultural nuances. This requires not only fluency in both languages but also an understanding of manga-specific terminology, humor, and context. Manga translators often collaborate with editors and letterers to ensure that the translated text fits naturally within the artwork and panels. The goal is to provide readers with an authentic experience that stays true to the creator’s intent.

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

To thrive as a Manga Translator, you need fluency in both Japanese and the target language, with a strong grasp of cultural nuances and literary style. Familiarity with translation software, typesetting tools, and sometimes CAT (computer-assisted translation) tools is often required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication help ensure translations are accurate and engaging while working with editors or teams. These skills are crucial for preserving the original manga's meaning and tone, ensuring quality and reader satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by manga translators, and how can they overcome them?

Manga translators often encounter challenges such as conveying cultural nuances, accurately translating idiomatic expressions, and syncing dialogue with artwork and character space constraints. To overcome these, translators typically research cultural references, collaborate closely with editors and native speakers, and adapt text creatively while maintaining the original meaning. Building a strong understanding of both source and target languages, as well as regular communication with the production team, helps ensure high-quality and faithful translations.

What is the difference between Manga Translation vs Comic Localization?

AspectManga TranslationComic Localization
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, translation skillsLanguage skills, cultural adaptation
Work EnvironmentFreelance or studio-based, manga publishersPublishing companies, freelance projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in manga and Japanese mediaBroader comics industry, including Western comics
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding translation specifics for mangaDifferences in adapting comics for local audiences

While both roles involve adapting visual storytelling for different languages, Manga Translation focuses on converting Japanese manga into other languages, emphasizing linguistic accuracy. Comic Localization involves not only translation but also cultural adaptation to make comics relatable to local audiences. Manga Translators typically work closely with publishers and focus on maintaining the original tone, whereas Comic Localizers may adapt cultural references and humor for broader appeal.

More about Manga Translation jobs

What cities are hiring for Manga Translation jobs?

Cities with the most Manga Translation job openings:

What states have the most Manga Translation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Manga Translation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Manga Translation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,200 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

$73K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

VIZ Media is looking to add two Editors to our publishing department - come join a team of dedicated storytellers and artists and help bring your favorite manga to the English-speaking market! As an Editor at VIZ Media, you'll have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of print and digital publications, collaborate with talented creative colleagues, and even propose series for acquisition. 

What you'll do:

  • Manage all editorial duties involved in the graphic novel, simultaneous serializations, and trade book production process for both print and digital formats, including: editing manuscripts, proofreading page and cover proofs, checking bluelines, and reviewing digital editions to ensure quality and consistency
  • Oversee freelance translators, rewriters, and letterers for the production of graphic novels, simultaneous serializations, and trade books
  • Work with our Publishing Licensing department to address licensor requirements and concerns and to secure approval for publication projects
  • Collaborate with in-house Designers and freelance designers on the timely and high-quality creation of cover and miscellaneous text layout for graphic novels and trade books
  • Write cover text, catalog copy, and other related marketing and sales materials
  • Check promotional copy in items such as sell sheets, samplers, and other marketing materials to make sure they are consistent with the facts and spirit of the title
  • Work with Production staff to determine production specifications and with senior Publishing staff to conduct cost analysis and stay within the title budget
  • Research and propose potential publishing acquisitions
  • Represent and advocate titles placed under your responsibility
  • Provide supporting editorial and informational services for other departments, including Digital Publishing, Sales, Marketing, and Animation

The ideal candidate has:

  • 2-4 years of experience in delivering high quality editorial services related to book publication, simultaneous serialization, graphic novels, video games and/or trade books
  • Knowledge about book publishing, comics, manga, or anime
  • Experience writing and editing high-quality copy and maintaining continuity in projects
  • The ability to balance creative judgements with business requirements
  • Strong skill with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Excellent project and deadline management skills
  • A Bachelor's Degree in English, Journalism, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature, Communications, or related field or equivalent experience

Additional Preferred Experience:

  • Prior experience in the publishing industry
  • Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (particularly InDesign and Photoshop)
  • Working knowledge of the Japanese language (a plus, not a must)

Work Location, Schedule, and Compensation

Location: The Editor must be local to the San Francisco Bay Area. VIZ Media operates on a hybrid schedule, and the Editor should expect to work onsite at our Downtown San Francisco office 1-2 times per week. There may be some required travel for this position to attend conventions or trade shows.

Schedule: This is a Regular Full-Time position with flexibility in working hours outside of our core hours of 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. The Editor may need to work late or on weekends or be on call for occasional urgent issues. 

Compensation: $73,000 - $78,000 annually, depending on experience, with additional variable compensation