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Professional Translator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chechen Translator/Linguist

Reston, VA · On-site

$23 - $30.25/hr

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

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

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

Showing results 21-40

Professional Translator information

See Virginia salary details

$27.3K

$56.7K

$86.8K

How much do professional translator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional translator in Virginia is $56,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $57,000.00 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Translator jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Professional Translator jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Professional Translator job openings:

Infographic showing various Professional Translator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,710 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Somali Translator/Linguist

Leidos

Reston, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 491 rated business services


Job description

Somali Linguist

Make a Global Impact - Join the Mission at Leidos

Are you ready to apply your linguistic expertise to meaningful work that directly supports Intel Sector? At Leidos, we bring together innovative minds, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to excellence to solve the world's toughest challenges. Join a team where your contributions truly matter, and where you'll have the resources and support to thrive professionally and personally. Leidos will sponsor and upgrade security clearances for eligible candidates.

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Somali Linguist to join our mission-driven team. This position requires a language professional capable of performing a wide range of complex linguistic tasks with precision and cultural insight.

What You'll Do:

You will provide professional-level linguistic support across translation, interpretation, transcription, and Gisting including but not limited to:

Translation

  • Accurately translate materials (both digital and hard copy) from Somali into English and vice versa.

  • Capture subtle nuances, cultural references, and abstract concepts with contextual accuracy.

  • Capture geopolitical, regional, ethnic, and cultural references effectively.

  • Use terminology and expression consistent with subject matter norms in the target language.

Interpretation

  • Provide consecutive interpretation; simultaneous interpretation may occasionally be required.

  • Maintain high fidelity and fluency, demonstrating understanding of regional dialects and cultural context.

Transcription

  • Listen to audio or review internet-based content and transcribe accurately and efficiently.

  • Produce high-quality English-language reports based on audio/visual materials.

  • Demonstrate nuanced understanding of dialectical variations.

Gisting and Summarization

  • Identify and summarize key facts and abstract concepts accurately.

  • Prioritize and extract critical information from large datasets.

  • Use reference materials effectively to support quality output.

Security Clearance:

  • No clearance required to apply.

  • Able to obtain a TS/SCI clearance with polygraph (must be fully adjudicated before work begins). Leidos will sponsor candidates after passing all the required language tests.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree and 4 - 8 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 2 - 6 years of prior relevant experience. (Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.)

  • Translation and/or interpretation degree is highly desired

  • HLT experience a plus

  • Must successfully complete a Leidos-administered language proficiency test or equivalent at the Primary level or higher.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and basic online research.

  • All candidates must take and pass language tests administered by LEIDOS/an accepted commercial testing vendor.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience supporting contingency operations as a deployed linguist.

  • Familiarity with the U.S. Intelligence Community, military operations, or law enforcement environments.

  • Ability to effectively brief and communicate findings to various stakeholders.

  • Proficiency in multiple languages is a strong asset.

Additional Information:

  • Attending and passing all sponsor related training is a requirement of employment.

  • All Candidates must take and successfully pass a medical laboratory and/or physical screenas required by theprogram.

  • Successfully completing the required weapons training.

  • Travel is required both OCONUS and CONUS and is at the discretion of the customer. Candidate must be able to support the contract 24/7 when on travel.

Why Leidos?

At Leidos, we're not just offering a job - we're offering a mission. As part of the Intel Sector, you'll contribute to a safer world by enabling critical intelligence efforts with AI, machine learning, and digital modernization, Mission Software Systems. From safeguarding ports and borders to anticipating geopolitical instability years in advance, our linguists play an integral role in shaping global security.

We value innovation, collaboration, and integrity - and we are looking for people who are driven to make a difference.

Ready to Elevate Your Career?

If you're a passionate linguist ready to support impactful work on a global scale, we encourage you to apply today. Your greatest work is ahead.

#MSBA

At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that provide them with an opportunity to thrive, professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business. We're excited to learn more about you, apply today!

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:June 5, 2025

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $73,450.00 - $132,775.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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