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Professional Translation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Arlington Public Schools

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA

$50K - $66K/yr

... of professional translation activities under the general supervision of the Coordinator Language Services Registration Center. The Translation Specialist is an official Spanish translator for ...

Arlington Public Schools

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA

$50K - $66K/yr

... of professional translation activities under the general supervision of the Coordinator Language Services Registration Center. The Translation Specialist is an official Spanish translator for ...

Arlington Public Schools

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

... of professional translation activities under the general supervision of the Coordinator Language Services Registration Center. The Translation Specialist is an official Spanish translator for ...

JTG, inc.

Expert Level Translators

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

... translation performance test at ILR 5 • Proficient in reading, listening to, and comprehending foreign languages at an advanced professional capability of ILR 5 in the source language • ...

JTG

Primary Level Translators - Multiple Languages

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

... pass translation performance test at ILR 3 to 3+. • Proficient in reading, listening to, and comprehending foreign languages at an advanced professional capability of ILR 3/3+ in the source ...

Leidos

Khmer Linguist/Translator

Reston, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

You will provide professional-level linguistic support across translation, interpretation, transcription , and Gisting including but not limited to: Translation * Accurately translate materials (both ...

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Professional Translation information

What is the difference between Professional Translation vs Interpreter?

AspectProfessional TranslationInterpreter
CredentialsTypically requires translation certifications (e.g., ATA certification), language degreesOften requires interpreting certifications, language proficiency tests
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based, working with documents, digital toolsUsually live settings, conferences, meetings, or courtrooms
Industry UsageUsed in publishing, legal, medical, technical fieldsUsed in legal, diplomatic, medical, conference settings

While both roles involve language skills, Professional Translators focus on converting written content, whereas Interpreters facilitate spoken communication in real-time. Each requires specific certifications and work environments, but both serve essential roles in cross-language communication across industries.

How do I become a professional translator?

To become a professional translator, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and often pursue a bachelor's degree in translation, linguistics, or a related field. Gaining certification from recognized organizations and developing strong language and cultural skills are also important for establishing credibility and finding employment in the field.

How do professional translators typically handle tight deadlines and multiple simultaneous projects?

Professional translators often manage several projects at once, each with its own deadlines and subject matter. To handle this effectively, they employ strong organizational skills, use specialized translation management tools, and maintain clear communication with clients and project managers. Prioritizing tasks, planning ahead, and sometimes collaborating with other translators or editors helps ensure quality work is delivered on time. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as last-minute changes or urgent requests are common in this field.

What is professional translation?

Professional translation is the process of converting written or spoken content from one language to another by a qualified individual with expertise in both the source and target languages. Unlike machine or amateur translation, professional translators ensure that meaning, tone, and context are preserved accurately. They often specialize in specific fields, such as legal, medical, or technical translation, to provide precise and culturally appropriate results. Professional translation plays a vital role in global communication, commerce, and diplomacy.

Is there still a demand for professional translators?

Yes, professional translators are in demand due to globalization and the need for accurate communication across languages. The industry values language skills, cultural knowledge, and proficiency with translation tools like CAT software, and demand is expected to grow as international business and content localization increase.

How much money do professional translators make?

Professional translators' earnings vary based on experience, language pairs, and specialization, but they typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour or $30,000 to $80,000 annually. Freelance translators may have variable income, while those working for agencies or in-house tend to have more stable salaries. Certification and proficiency in translation tools can also influence earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Professional Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, strong grammar skills, and a relevant degree or translation certification. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology databases, and industry-specific software is commonly required. Attention to detail, cultural sensitivity, and excellent time management are vital soft skills for success in this field. These skills ensure accurate, contextually appropriate translations that meet client needs and industry standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Translation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Translation jobs in Virginia are:
Professional Translation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Translation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Professional Translator - Naval Technical Services

CLFC Healthcare and Communications

Dahlgren, VA • On-site

$48 - $58/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Professional Translator - Naval Technical Services | Dahlgren, VA

Independent Contractor | $48 - $58/hour | Flexible Scheduling

Why Translators Choose CLFC

CLFC Healthcare & Communications connects elite linguists with high-impact federal translation work. Our translators support critical national defense and technical programs, working alongside naval engineers, scientists, and program managers on documents that shape military readiness and international cooperation.

What Makes This Opportunity Stand Out

  • Mission-Critical Work: Translate technical documents that directly support naval surface warfare capabilities and national defense programs
  • Professional Growth: Expand your expertise in military, technical, and engineering terminology across multiple defense domains
  • Flexible Engagement: Independent contractor arrangement with scheduling flexibility built around project deliverables
  • Competitive Compensation: $48 - $58/hour commensurate with experience and specialization
  • Virginia Location: Work supporting one of the Navy's premier research and development installations in the Northern Virginia/Fredericksburg corridor
  • Security Clearance Pathway: Opportunity to obtain or utilize existing government security clearance for classified translation work
  • Long-Term Stability: Ongoing federal contract with consistent translation volume and project continuity

The Role

CLFC is seeking Professional Translators to support a federal naval research and development facility in Dahlgren, Virginia. You will provide high-quality written translation services for technical, scientific, and administrative documents supporting naval surface warfare programs. This role requires exceptional linguistic precision, subject matter expertise in military and technical domains, and the ability to handle sensitive materials with discretion and professionalism.

What You Will Do

  • Technical Document Translation: Translate complex engineering, scientific, and technical documents between English and target languages with precision and accuracy
  • Military Communications: Translate operational correspondence, reports, briefings, and technical manuals supporting naval programs
  • Research Translation: Support translation of research papers, technical specifications, test reports, and program documentation
  • Quality Assurance: Review and proofread translated materials for accuracy, consistency, and adherence to military terminology standards
  • Terminology Management: Maintain and develop specialized glossaries for naval, technical, and defense-related terminology
  • Cultural Consultation: Provide cultural context and guidance to ensure translations are appropriate for their intended audience and purpose

What You Bring

Required Qualifications:

  • Native or near-native fluency in English and at least one additional language
  • Minimum 2 years of professional translation experience, preferably in technical, military, or government contexts
  • Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical and scientific documents with accuracy
  • Eligible for U.S. government security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality in all deliverables
  • Proficiency with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools and translation memory software

Preferred Qualifications:

  • ATA (American Translators Association) certification
  • Active or recently held government security clearance (Secret or Top Secret)
  • Experience translating for Department of Defense, Navy, or other military branches
  • Specialization in engineering, weapons systems, naval architecture, or related technical fields
  • Familiarity with DoD translation standards and military document formatting
  • Experience with SDL Trados, MemoQ, or similar professional CAT tools
  • Additional language pairs beyond the primary combination

Compensation and Details

  • Pay Rate: $48 - $58/hour, commensurate with experience and language specialization
  • Engagement Type: Independent Contractor
  • Location: Dahlgren, Virginia (federal naval facility)
  • Schedule: Project-based with flexible scheduling around deliverable deadlines

About CLFC Healthcare & Communications

CLFC Healthcare & Communications is a nationwide federal contractor providing healthcare staffing and language access services. With 500+ healthcare professionals and 200+ interpreters and translators, CLFC delivers critical linguistic and clinical support to federal agencies, military installations, and government programs across the country. CLFC is a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) committed to excellence in every engagement.

CLFC Healthcare & Communications is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.