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Translation Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA

$50K - $66K/yr

... translation of a variety of essential district and school documents. The Hourly Translator also provides leadership, training, and support to teachers, resource assistants, and other staff involved ...

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

... translation of a variety of essential district and school documents. The Hourly Translator also provides leadership, training, and support to teachers, resource assistants, and other staff involved ...

Hourly Translator

Arlington, VA

$50K - $66K/yr

... translation of a variety of essential district and school documents. The Hourly Translator also provides leadership, training, and support to teachers, resource assistants, and other staff involved ...

Translator

Sterling, VA · Remote

$44K - $58K/yr

Foreign Language Translation Quality Reviewer (Remote) Location: Remote - Work from Anywhere Employment Type: Contract / Freelance Start Date: Immediate Job Summary We are seeking native foreign ...

Expert Level Translators

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Location: remote Pay Range: $0.10 - $0.20 per word of translation Responsibilities: • Provide accurate translations, transcriptions, and summaries of foreign language text, audio and video material ...

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Translation information

See Washington, DC salary details

$31.1K

$64.8K

$99.1K

How much do translation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for translation in Washington, DC is $64,761.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,800.00 and $65,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a translator do?

Translators convert written materials from one language into another while preserving the original meaning, tone, and style. They work with a variety of documents, including books, articles, websites, legal papers, and technical manuals. Translators must have excellent language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and attention to detail to ensure accuracy. Their work often involves researching terminology and collaborating with clients to clarify ambiguities.

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

To excel as a Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, a deep understanding of grammar and cultural nuances, and often a relevant degree or certification in translation studies. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology databases, and industry-specific software is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and cultural sensitivity are vital soft skills that set top translators apart. These abilities are crucial for accurately conveying meaning, maintaining context, and ensuring clear communication between diverse audiences.

How do translators typically balance accuracy and cultural nuance when working on projects?

Translators often face the challenge of ensuring translations are both accurate and culturally appropriate. This involves not only conveying the literal meaning of the original text but also adapting idioms, tone, and context to resonate with the target audience. Many translators work closely with clients or subject matter experts to clarify ambiguities and consult style guides or glossaries specific to the industry. Collaboration with editors and other translators is also common, especially for large projects, to maintain consistency and quality throughout the work.

What is the difference between Translation vs Interpreter?

AspectTranslationInterpreter
Required CredentialsLanguage proficiency, translation certifications (e.g., ATA)Language proficiency, interpreting certifications (e.g., CI, CT)
Work EnvironmentOffice, remote, or freelance settingsConferences, meetings, live events
Industry UsagePublishing, legal, technical, businessConferences, legal proceedings, healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentTranslation vs Interpreter

Translation involves converting written text from one language to another, typically done in a static setting like documents or websites. Interpreter work focuses on real-time spoken communication, such as at conferences or legal proceedings. Both roles require strong language skills and certifications, but they differ mainly in the medium (written vs spoken) and work environment.

Are translation jobs still in demand?

Yes, translation jobs remain in demand due to globalization and the need for multilingual communication in various industries such as healthcare, legal, and technology. Proficiency in multiple languages and familiarity with translation tools like CAT software can enhance job prospects.

Do translators make a lot of money?

Translator salaries vary based on experience, language pairs, specialization, and location. On average, freelance translators earn between $20 and $50 per hour, while salaried positions typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Advanced skills, certifications, and working with niche markets can lead to higher earnings.

How do I get a job as a translator?

To get a job as a translator, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and often a relevant degree or certification such as the ATA certification. Building a portfolio, gaining experience through freelance work, and using translation tools like CAT software can improve your chances. Many translators work independently or for agencies, and strong language skills and cultural knowledge are essential.

What qualifications do I need to be a translation?

To work as a translator, you typically need fluency in at least two languages and a strong understanding of cultural nuances. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in translation, linguistics, or a related field, and professional certification such as the ATA (American Translators Association) credential can enhance job prospects. Proficiency with translation tools and good communication skills are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Translation jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Translation jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Translation jobs in Washington, DC?

For Translation jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Translation jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Translation jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Translation job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,761 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Translation Project Manager - DC/MD/VA

Jamison Professional Services, Inc. (Jamison)

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Jamison Professional Services, Inc. ("Jamison") is currently seeking a qualified and motivated candidate for the position of Translation Project Manager.
Job Title: Translation Project Manager
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES:
A federal government agency is undergoing a multi-year Strategic Transformation to deliver safer, more reliable, and customer-focused transit across the Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia region. Guided by the "Your Metro, The Way Forward" Strategic Transformation Plan, the customer is aligning its operations, technology, organizational structure, and capital investments to meet evolving customer needs, improve efficiency, and strengthen regional mobility. This transformation addresses changes in ridership patterns, growing customer expectations, new transportation competitors, and budget challenges intensified by the Covid-19 pandemic. The initiative enhances cross-department collaboration, modernizes processes, and supports long-term sustainability and trusted service for the communities we serve.
Responsibilities:
Conduct and prepare accurate written translations of documents, materials, brochures and signage in hard copy and electronic formats, using correct syntax and expression from English into Spanish, in a manner that maintains the integrity and meaning of the material. Convert written materials from English to Spanish, such as brochures, webpages and other customer facing materials. Edit and proofread text to accurately reflect language. Possess the ability to write customer facing materials in English and Spanish. Coordinate with Procurement to issue translation solicitations, manage the Procurement process and ensure compliance. Coordinate translation process using professional translation services, including final quality checks. Create and manage specialized internal language review teams for top translated languages, including recruitment, testing and retention. Update and manage communications and terminology standards in top translated languages. Work with project staff to ensure all customer deliverables are 100% accurate and on time and provides linguistic support when needed. Interact with customers for customer facing events in English and Spanish. Assist with preparing correspondence and other written materials for internal and external distribution. Provide support to the office and assists other special projects and team members as needed.
REQUIRED AND DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Bachelor's Degree, certificate, or similar in translations studies, Spanish studies, Linguistics, Communications, Public Administration, Social Sciences, etc. Minimum of five years of experience in project management, preferably in a large organizational setting.
  • Certified Interpreter and/or Translator - documentation should indicate the certifying assessment body (ILR, ATA, etc), any subject matter expertise, the proficiency level, specific language combinations, and proof of valid certification, and direction of translation permitted (e.g. Spanish -> English, English -> Spanish) for translator certification only.
  • Knowledge of and experience with integrating/teaching CAT Tools, Translation Memories or Translation Workflow Experience to new users.
  • Experience working with or in a large organization, ability to develop and maintain working relationships with internal and external customers. Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of customer service, customer events and customer communication. Knowledgeable about, or possess the ability to quickly learn, public transit terminology. High proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
  • Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign and Illustrator, MS Project and SharePoint is a plus.
  • Bilingual in Spanish is required. Must be bilingual, possess the ability to read, write and speak Spanish fluently.
  • Strong communication skills and organizational skills and ability to manage and lead projects. Fluent in Spanish as well as strong Spanish writing and grammar skills including notions of Spanish typographical conventions (punctuation, capitalization) and different varieties of Spanish (i.e. regionalisms), as well as "standard" Spanish.
  • Ability to work well under pressure and manage multiple projects while adhering to strict deadlines. Ability to deduce complex information into simple, customer friendly materials. Ability to serve as an interpreter as needed. Possess and understanding of different minority, ethnic and religious

Location: Washington, DC / Alexandria, VA / Silver Spring, MD
Schedule:
Standard hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a one (1) hour unpaid lunch break. However, the COTR may request temporary services for periods in excess of a seven and one half (7.5) hour day or a thirty-seven and one-half hour (37.5) hour week. Temporary personnel working six (6) hours or more are required to take a one-half hour unpaid lunch break. Overtime: Hours worked in excess of forty (40) hours in one week is considered as overtime work, all overtime must be approved by the COTR in advance.
Clearance Level Required: Employment is contingent upon successfully completing any required background checks, in accordance with applicable law.
JAMISON CORPORATE OVERVIEW:
Jamison Professional Services, Inc. (Jamison) is a Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) headquartered in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. We specialize in providing professional management, administrative, healthcare, court reporters and transcriptionist experts, and document/ record and telehealth operational support solutions to U.S. Government, State, and commercial clients. Jamison is a nationwide professional staff augmentation company, that helps commercial clients and government agencies expand their talent acquisition reach by sourcing, assessing, developing, and managing the talent that enables them to be successful.
Jamison offers a wide range of employment opportunities in the commercial and government sectors. We seek employees who share our values of service excellence, integrity, and professionalism.
Jamison affords equal employment opportunity to all individuals, regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, medical condition, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Our employees, as well as applicants and others with whom we do business, will not be subjected to sexual, racial, religious, ethnic, or any other form of unlawful harassment and/or discrimination. In addition, Jamison adheres to the equal employment opportunity requirements of all states and localities in which it does business.
Jamison's commitment to equal opportunity is applied through every aspect of the employment relationship, including, but not limited to, recruitment, selection, placement, training, compensation, promotion, transfer, termination, and all other matters of employment.
Applicants may be required to successfully complete an online assessment to determine qualifications for positions requiring specific skills.
All applications must be submitted through our application system at: https://www.jps-online.com/apply-now