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Professional Translator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Provide verbal and written interpretation and translation in Spanish and English as needed during ... Establish and uphold clear professional boundaries with clients, following ethical guidelines and ...

Bilingual Advocate

Sioux Center, IA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Provide verbal and written interpretation and translation in Spanish and English as needed during ... Establish and uphold clear professional boundaries with clients, following ethical guidelines and ...

Bilingual Advocate

Spencer, IA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Provide verbal and written interpretation and translation in Spanish and English as needed during ... Establish and uphold clear professional boundaries with clients, following ethical guidelines and ...

Bilingual Advocate

Spencer, IA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Provide verbal and written interpretation and translation in Spanish and English as needed during ... Establish and uphold clear professional boundaries with clients, following ethical guidelines and ...

Provide verbal and written interpretation and translation in Spanish and English as needed during ... Establish and uphold clear professional boundaries with clients, following ethical guidelines and ...

Bilingual Advocate

Spencer, IA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Provide verbal and written interpretation and translation in Spanish and English as needed during ... Establish and uphold clear professional boundaries with clients, following ethical guidelines and ...

Provide verbal and written interpretation and translation in Spanish and English as needed during ... Establish and uphold clear professional boundaries with clients, following ethical guidelines and ...

Showing results 41-60

Professional Translator information

See Iowa salary details

$25.8K

$53.7K

$82.2K

How much do professional translator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional translator in Iowa is $53,726.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $54,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Professional Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, a strong grasp of grammar and cultural nuances, and often a relevant degree or certification in translation. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology management systems, and industry-specific software is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills help translators deliver accurate and culturally appropriate work. These abilities ensure clear, effective translation that meets client needs and maintains the integrity of the original message.

How do I get a job as a professional translator?

To become a professional translator, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and relevant translation skills. Earning a certification such as the ATA Certification or completing a degree in translation or linguistics can improve job prospects, and building a portfolio or gaining experience through internships can help secure employment in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by professional translators when working with specialized or technical content?

Professional translators frequently encounter challenges when translating specialized or technical content, such as medical, legal, or scientific documents. These challenges include understanding complex terminology, ensuring accurate meaning without introducing ambiguity, and staying up-to-date with industry-specific language changes. To overcome these hurdles, translators often collaborate with subject matter experts and use specialized glossaries or translation memory tools. Maintaining consistency across large projects and managing tight deadlines are also common aspects of the role.

What is a professional translator?

Professional translators are language experts who convert written text from one language into another while preserving the original meaning, style, and tone. They typically work with a wide range of documents, such as legal contracts, technical manuals, literature, and marketing materials. Professional translators possess deep knowledge of both the source and target languages, as well as cultural nuances, to ensure accurate and effective communication. They may specialize in specific fields, such as medical, legal, or technical translation, to provide more precise services. Many professional translators also use specialized software to enhance their efficiency and consistency.

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 $40,000 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 is the difference between Professional Translator vs Interpreter?

AspectProfessional TranslatorInterpreter
CredentialsLanguage degrees, translation certifications (e.g., ATA)Language degrees, interpretation certifications (e.g., CI, CT)
Work EnvironmentOffices, remote work, translation agenciesConferences, meetings, live events
Industry UsagePublishing, legal, technical, medical translationDiplomatic, legal, medical, conference interpreting
Search & ComparisonOften compared for language services, written translation focusCompared for real-time communication, spoken language

Professional Translators primarily work with written content, translating documents, books, or digital media. Interpreters focus on spoken language, providing real-time translation during conversations, meetings, or events. Both roles require language proficiency and certifications, but they differ in work environment and skill application.

How much does a professional translator earn?

The average salary for a professional translator varies by experience, language pairs, and location, typically ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Freelance translators may earn per word or project rates, which can significantly differ based on specialization and client demand.

How do you become a professional translator?

To become a professional translator, individuals typically complete a bachelor's degree in translation, linguistics, or a related field, and develop fluency in at least two languages. Gaining certification from recognized organizations and building a portfolio of work can enhance employability in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Translator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Translator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Professional Translator jobs in Iowa? For Professional Translator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Professional Translator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,726 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

High School Spanish Teacher

Carlisle Community School District

Carlisle, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Foreign Language Teacher (Grades 7-12)ย 
Position Purposeย 
Under the general supervision of the School Principal, to develop students' knowledge, skills and abilities in comprehending, speaking, reading and writing a language other than English, and to develop an understanding and appreciation of the native culture of the countries where the language is the primary means of communication.ย 
Essential Functions




  • Develops and administers foreign language education curriculum consistent with school district goals and objectives.
  • Promotes a classroom environment that is safe and conducive to individualized and small group instruction, and student learning.
  • Develops lesson plans and instructional materials and translates lesson plans into learning experiences to develop pertinent sequential assignments, challenge students, and best utilize the available time for instruction.
  • Teaches knowledge and skills in a language other than English, including comprehension, grammar and syntax, sentence and paragraph structure, composition, vocabulary and proper word usage, colloquialisms, communication and translation of literature.
  • Develops student understanding and appreciation of the cultures and mores of countries where the language is the predominant or a major means of communication.
  • Works with students and others to prepare materials for inclusion in literary publications, contests, etc.
  • Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and progress, and modifies instructional methods to fit individual student's needs, including students with special needs; conducts individual and small group instruction as needed.
  • Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
  • Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping, grading, and reporting for all student activities, achievement and attendance as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
  • Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
  • Ensures that student conduct conforms with the school's standards and school district policies, and establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom.
  • Coordinates with other professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
  • Selects and requisitions appropriate books, instructional aids and other supplies and equipment and maintains inventory records.

Additional Dutiesย 
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.ย 
ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  Note:ย ย ย  The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.ย  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.ย 
Equipmentย 
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.ย 
Travel Requirementsย 
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.ย 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities









  • Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
  • Knowledge of the identified language, in terms of grammar, word usage, word denotations and connotations, and literature.
  • Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
  • Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
  • Ability to organize and coordinate work.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
  • Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazardsย 
Works in standard office and school building environments.ย 
ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  Note:ย ย ย  Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position.ย 
Qualifications Profile



  • Certification/License:
  • [State] ย State Certification as a foreign language teacher in the particular language taught.
  • Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

Education

  • Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
  • Masters Degree in related area preferred.

Experienceย 
Successful prior foreign language teaching experience a plus.ย 
FLSA Status:ย ย ย ย ย ย  Exemptย