What Does an Interpreter Do?
Find out what an interpreter does, how to get this job, and what it takes to succeed as an interpreter.
Interpreters translate spoken or written words from one language into another. They interpret between individuals, groups, organizations, and cultures to help them communicate effectively. Interpreters may work in a variety of settings including courtrooms, hospitals, schools, businesses, etc.
Interpreter Job Duties
Interpreters have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Translating written documents such as court documents, medical records, and legal briefs, as well as verbal communication such as meetings and phone calls
- Interpreting spoken language using written or visual cues if an in-person interpreter is used
- Interpreting nonverbal cues such as pauses in speech or facial expressions when translating spoken language
- Ensuring confidentiality when working with clients who are discussing sensitive issues such as personal finances, medical conditions, or legal problems
- Interpreting at meetings and conferences such as business negotiations, legal proceedings, and social events
- Following ethical codes of conduct and maintaining impartiality while interpreting
- Translating written materials such as books, manuals, websites, and other documents
- Acting as cultural brokers by helping others understand customs and traditions in other countries or cultures
- Serving as an advocate for the deaf or hard of hearing community and promoting awareness of issues affecting them
Interpreter Salary & Outlook
Interpreters’ salaries vary depending on their level of education and experience, the company size and geographic location.
- Median Annual Salary: $48,000 ($23.08/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $122,000 ($58.65/hour)
The employment of interpreters is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.
The growth of the aging population is expected to lead to an increase in the demand for language interpretation services, as older adults are more likely to need language assistance than younger people. In addition, the increasing popularity of international travel and trade will continue to create demand for interpreters who can translate between languages.
Interpreter Job Requirements
There are a number of qualifications required to become an interpreter, including:
Education: Most employers require interpreters to have a bachelor’s degree in a field such as foreign language, linguistics, international relations, international business, international studies, international trade, international relations, international law, international business administration, international economics, international relations, international trade, international business, international finance, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international relations, international law, international relations, international studies, international security, international trade, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration, international law, international business administration, international economics, international finance, international business administration,
Training & Experience: Interpreters receive most of their training while in school. They may also receive on-the-job training from a senior interpreter or supervisor.
Certifications & Licenses: Some employers may require employees to pass an industry-specific certification to show their general field understanding.
Interpreter Skills
Interpreters need the following skills in order to be successful:
Language skills: Language skills are the ability to interpret and translate languages. Interpreters need to have excellent language skills to be able to interpret accurately. Language skills include knowing the grammar, syntax and structure of the languages you interpret. It also includes knowing the cultural context of the languages you interpret.
Cultural knowledge: Cultural knowledge is the ability to understand the values, traditions and beliefs of a specific culture. This can help you interpret accurately and provide the right information to your clients. For example, in some cultures, it’s common to greet someone with a handshake, while in other cultures, it’s more common to greet someone with a bow. Knowing this can help you greet your clients appropriately.
Communication skills: Interpreters use communication skills to convey information to their clients and colleagues. They also use communication skills to convey information from their clients and colleagues to their clients. These skills help them to understand the needs of their clients and colleagues and to provide them with the information they need.
Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand another person’s perspective and feelings. Interpreters use empathy to connect with their audience and convey the speaker’s message accurately. For example, an interpreter may use empathy to understand the emotions of a speaker who is telling a sad story. This allows the interpreter to convey the speaker’s emotions accurately and help the audience understand the story.
Adaptability: Adaptability is the ability to change and adjust to new situations. Interpreters may need to adapt to different environments, such as hospitals, courts and schools, and different types of interpreting, such as consecutive, simultaneous and sight. Being adaptable can help you adjust to new situations and environments and learn new skills.
Interpreter Work Environment
Interpreters work in a variety of settings, including courtrooms, hospitals, conference rooms, and educational settings. They may work with speakers of the same language or with speakers of different languages. In some cases, interpreters work with speakers who use sign language. Interpreters must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time and to concentrate for long periods of time. They must also be able to hear and see well enough to understand the speaker and the message being conveyed. Some interpreters work in stressful situations, such as in courtrooms where they must interpret for criminal proceedings.
Interpreter Trends
Here are three trends influencing how interpreters work. Interpreters will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
The Growth of Globalization
The growth of globalization has led to an increasing number of people moving to new countries to work and live. This has created a need for interpreters who can help bridge the language gap between these individuals and the people they are interacting with.
As globalization continues to grow, the demand for interpreters will also continue to increase. Interpreters who are able to provide high-quality services in a variety of languages will be in high demand, as businesses look to expand their operations into new markets.
The Need for Better Communication Between Cultures
The need for better communication between cultures is becoming increasingly important in today’s global economy. As companies expand into new markets, they are finding that having employees who are familiar with the local culture is essential for success.
This trend is creating a demand for interpreters who can translate not only words but also cultural nuances. Interpreters who are able to do this will be in high demand and will be able to command higher salaries.
More Focus on Cultural Awareness
As globalization increases, businesses are realizing the importance of cultural awareness. This means that they are looking for employees who have experience working with people from different backgrounds.
Interpreters are in a unique position to capitalize on this trend, as they have the ability to understand and communicate with people from different cultures. By developing their cultural awareness skills, interpreters can become more valuable assets to their employers.
How to Become an Interpreter
Interpreters can have a rewarding career in many different fields. They can work for the government, private companies, or non-profit organizations. They can also specialize in certain areas, such as medical interpreting or legal interpreting.
No matter which field they choose, interpreters must be able to accurately translate spoken language from one language to another. This requires extensive knowledge of both languages and cultures. Interpreters must also be able to understand the context of what is being said so that they can accurately convey the meaning.
Advancement Prospects
Advancement for interpreters generally comes in the form of increased responsibility and pay. As interpreters gain experience, they may be given more complex assignments and may be able to choose assignments that fit their interests and schedules. Some interpreters may eventually become trainers or consultants. Some may move into related fields, such as translation, teaching English as a second language, or international relations.
Interpreter Job Description Example
At [CompanyX], we provide our clients with high-quality interpretation services in a confidential and professional manner. We are currently seeking an interpreter to join our team. The ideal candidate will be bilingual in English and [Target Language], with excellent written and verbal communication skills in both languages. They will have experience interpreting in a variety of settings, such as business meetings, conferences, and court proceedings. They will be able to maintain confidentiality and impartiality at all times, and have a strong understanding of cultural differences. The interpreter will be responsible for conveying messages accurately and effectively between parties who do not share a common language.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Provide interpretation and translation services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, ensuring clear and accurate communication
- Serve as a cultural mediator between individuals from different cultures, providing context and explanation as needed to facilitate understanding
- Remain impartial and objective while interpreting, conveying messages without adding personal opinion or bias
- Use active listening skills to accurately interpret spoken or written messages
- Convert spoken or written messages from one language to another, using proper grammar, syntax, and vocabulary
- Read aloud or sign documents, such as letters, contracts, or instructions, translating them as needed
- Translate audio recordings or live speeches from one language to another
- Escort deaf or hard of hearing individuals to appointments or meetings, acting as a liaison between the individual and others present
- Advocate on behalf of deaf or hard of hearing individuals, working to ensure their needs are met
- Maintain confidentiality regarding all interpreted conversations and communications
- Keep up to date on industry news and developments, as well as changes in terminology or slang, to ensure accuracy in interpretation
- Attend continuing education courses or workshops to maintain professional competence
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in interpretation, translation, linguistics, or related field
- At least 3 years of professional interpretation experience
- Native-level fluency in both English and target language
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Cultural competence and sensitivity
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Master’s degree in interpretation, translation, linguistics, or related field
- 5+ years of professional interpretation experience
- Experience working in a specific industry or subject matter
- Advanced knowledge of interpreting equipment and technology
- Proficiency in additional languages
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