ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Scientific Translator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TPIRC

Mid-Career Scientist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

Translational scientific insights * New discovery pathways in immunology and pulmonary disease * Stronger visibility for TPIRC nationally and internationally * Future grant and partnership ...

TPIRC

Mid-Career Scientist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

Translational scientific insights * New discovery pathways in immunology and pulmonary disease * Stronger visibility for TPIRC nationally and internationally * Future grant and partnership ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScientific Translator JobsScientific Translator Jobs in California

Scientific Translator information

See California salary details

$12

$25

$40

How much do scientific translator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific translator in California is $25.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a scientific translator do?

A Scientific Translator specializes in translating technical and scientific documents, such as research papers, patents, and reports, from one language to another. They ensure accuracy by maintaining the correct terminology, context, and meaning while making the content accessible to the target audience. This role requires expertise in both the source and target languages as well as a deep understanding of the specific scientific field. Scientific Translators often work with researchers, publishers, or organizations to facilitate global collaboration and knowledge sharing.

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

To thrive as a Scientific Translator, you need a strong command of at least two languages, specialized knowledge in scientific fields, and experience with academic or technical writing. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology databases, and relevant certifications such as ATA or specialized scientific translation qualifications are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are key soft skills for accurately conveying complex scientific concepts. These skills are crucial to ensure precise and reliable translation of technical content, supporting global collaboration and knowledge sharing within scientific communities.

What are the typical challenges faced by scientific translators in their daily work?

Scientific Translators often encounter challenges such as understanding complex, field-specific terminology and staying updated with the latest scientific research in both source and target languages. They may need to consult extensively with subject matter experts or review scientific literature to ensure accuracy and consistency in translation. Managing tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of precision and clarity is also common in this role. Successful Scientific Translators are adept at handling these demands, as their work directly impacts the accessibility and integrity of scientific information shared across global audiences.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Translator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Scientific Translator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Scientific Translator jobs in California?

For Scientific Translator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Scientific Translator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Scientific Translator jobs in California are:

Scientific Translator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Translator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 32% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,650 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Translator - Certified

Prisma International, Inc.

Sacramento, CA • Remote

$46K - $61K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

About Prisma International, Inc. (Prisma) - 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. 

Prisma is actively seeking experienced ATA-certified (or equivalent) Translators to join our team of independent contractors. In this role, you will provide written translations for Prisma clients. This is a 100% remote position.

Languages: CHINESE-Simplified, KOREAN, PUNJABI, SPANISH, TAGALOG and VIETNAMESE

If your native language is not listed above, you are welcome to apply if you meet ALL of the minimum requirements stated below.

Preference will be given to applicants with experience translating the following specializations: legal matters, water board hearings, science, engineering, and health.

Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - applicants must meet ALL of the following:

  • Certified by the American Translators Association (ATA) - OR - equivalent status from an alternate language institution (e.g., ALTA, CCHI, SCSI, LTI/ACTFL, ILR, etc.). You will be asked to upload your certificate or other credentials.
  • Two years of experience providing human translation services to local, state or federal government offices.
  • Three professional references who can confirm your status as a certified (or equivalent) Translator.
  • Full fluency in English and the other language.
  • Trained or accredited through a higher education institution
  • Minimum age: 18+ years or older
  • Minimum education: High School Diploma
  • Reliable desktop PC or laptop with dedicated, secure high-speed internet.
  • 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 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 checks (before delivery) to ensure the target translation is error-free and faithful to the meaning of the source document.
  • Deliver completed translation jobs by the given deadlines and project budgets.
  • Review the formatted target-language PDF files for accuracy; mark any needed corrections. Using Adobe markup 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), and solution implementation.
  • Take all necessary measures to protect and keep private any 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 availability 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.

Apply