ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Professional Translator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prisma International, Inc.

$45K - $58K/yr

TRANSLATOR - PACIFIC ISLAND LANGUAGES - Job Posting We are expanding our independent contractor ... Have three (3) years of professional experience providing written translations to state and/or ...

Prisma International, Inc.

$45K - $59K/yr

TRANSLATOR - PACIFIC ISLAND LANGUAGES - Job Posting We are expanding our independent contractor ... Have three (3) years of professional experience providing written translations to state and/or ...

Arlington Public Schools

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $66K/yr

The Hourly Translator also provides leadership, training, and support to teachers, resource ... Demonstrated English and Spanish language skills at a professional or highly competent level ...

Arlington Public Schools

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA

$50K - $66K/yr

The Hourly Translator also provides leadership, training, and support to teachers, resource ... Demonstrated English and Spanish language skills at a professional or highly competent level ...

Arlington Public Schools

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

The Hourly Translator works independently performing a variety of professional translation activities under the general supervision of the Coordinator Language Services Registration Center. The ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsGovernment JobsGovernment Services JobsLanguage Interpreter JobsProfessional Translator Jobs

Professional Translator information

See salary details

$27.5K

$57.2K

$87.5K

How much do professional translator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional 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 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.

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.

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 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.

Are professional translator jobs still in demand?

Professional translator jobs remain in demand due to globalization, international business, and the need for multilingual communication. Opportunities are available in various sectors such as healthcare, legal, technical, and media, often requiring proficiency in multiple languages and certification. The demand is expected to grow as global connectivity increases.

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 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 much money do professional translators make?

Professional translators' earnings vary based on experience, language pairs, and specialization, but the median annual salary in many regions ranges from $45,000 to $60,000. Freelance translators often set their own rates, which can be per word, hour, or project, and those with specialized skills or certifications tend to earn higher incomes.
More about Professional Translator jobs

What cities are hiring for Professional Translator jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Translator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Translator jobs?

The most popular types of Translator jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Translator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Translator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Professional Translator jobs?

For Professional Translator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Professional Translator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Translator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,200 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Translator - Pacific Island Languages

Vancouver, WA

Prisma International, Inc.
See more jobs at Prisma International, Inc.external

$46K - $60K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Prisma International, Inc. - Prisma is a dynamic and growing language services provider committed to delivering exceptional translation solutions to clients worldwide. We pride ourselves on our dedication to linguistic excellence and client satisfaction.

TRANSLATOR - PACIFIC ISLAND LANGUAGES - Job Posting

We are expanding our independent contractor team and seeking experienced, professional Translators to provide vital recovery communications to individuals and communities impacted by disasters. We are working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in this effort. In times of crisis, clear communication in one's native language isn't just a service-it's a lifeline. Translation projects for FEMA are urgent and require fast turnaround.

To be considered for hire, you must meet ALL minimum requirements listed below. Translation projects are assigned on an as-needed basis according to need and your availability.

TARGET LANGUAGES:

CAROLINIAN, CHAMORRO (Saipan dialect), CHUUKESE, HAWAIIAN, ILOCANO, MARSHALLESE, PALAUAN, POHNPEIAN, SAMOAN and TONGAN.

If your language is not listed above, you are welcome to apply. However, you must meet ALL requirements to be considered.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

  • You must reside in the United States or a U.S. territory.
  • You must be 18+ years of age.
  • Have three (3) years of professional experience providing written translations to state and/or federal government agencies. Candidates who submit resumes without a three-year timeline of fed/state government agency experience will be disqualified.
  • Certified by a translation industry organization such as: American Translators Association (ATA), Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI), Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR), etc. --OR-- a Bachelor's degree (or higher) in translation or other language-related discipline from an accredited college or university. If onboarded, you will be asked to submit proof of accreditation(s). Five+ years of professional translation services to state and/or federal government agencies may be accepted in lieu of the above.
  • Willingness to abide by Prisma's Master Service Agreement (MSA) and related Addenda.
  • High proficiency in English and a fluent speaker of the target language(s).
  • Reliable desktop PC or laptop with dedicated, secure, high-speed internet connection.
  • Experience using modern CAT tools (e.g. XTM, Trados, etc.).
  • Adobe Acrobat on your device and the ability to use Adobe's markup tools on a PDF file.

TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provide quick-turn written translations using a Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tool. We provide XTM access to you.
  • Adhere to all project work instructions, glossaries and reference materials provided to you.
  • Ensure the source content's concept, style and register are culturally and linguistically appropriate for the target language.
  • Perform language quality check steps (before delivery) to ensure the target translation is error-free and true to the meaning of the source document.
  • Deliver completed translation jobs by the given deadlines and project budgets. FEMA projects require accelerated delivery. Due dates are driven by word count.
  • Review formatted target language PDF files for accuracy; mark any corrections needed. Using Adobe mark-up tools is required.
  • Communicate in a timely and professional manner with Prisma team members.
  • Willfully participate in quality management processes, e.g. Corrective Action Reports (CARs), Root Cause Analyses (RCAs), solution implementation.
  • Take all measures necessary to protect and keep private sensitive information shared with you to carry out translation projects (e.g. PHI, PII, SBU).
  • Adhere to policies and processes defined in Prisma's Master Service Agreement (MSA) and the Prisma Vendor Guide.

OTHER ATTRIBUTES

  • Excellent communication skills and quick responses to Prisma project team requests.
  • Ability to accommodate fast turnarounds for small word count projects.
  • After hours and weekend ability is a plus (at your discretion).

IMPORTANT APPLICANT SECURITY NOTICE:

Prisma will never ask for payment information or fee transfers during recruitment or employment preparation. Legitimate outreach for information will only originate from official @prisma.com email addresses.

Requirements

See full list of minimum requirements above.

Apply