Translator

Translators convert written words from a 'source language' into the 'target language', making sure that the meaning is the same.

In this guide

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As a translator, you would:

  • reproduce text clearly, accurately and in the style intended by the author
  • work on TV and film subtitles, and text in computer games
  • translate books, manuals and business documents
  • use translation software
  • research specialist legal, technical or scientific terms
  • consult with experts to make sure translations are accurate
  • proofread drafts done by others or by machines, as part of quality control
  • follow developments in translation, like the use of artificial intelligence

Working environment

You could work in an office, from home or at a client's business.

Career path and progression

Most translators work freelance, or through translation agencies, known as language service providers.

With experience, you could:

  • move into the co-ordination and management of translation projects
  • specialise in a particular area, such as law, business or intelligence
  • set up your own interpreting agency
  • combine translating with teaching

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • foreign language skills
  • knowledge of English language
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • customer service skills
  • excellent written communication skills
  • the ability to work on your own
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • concentration skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You may have to pass enhanced background checks if your work is related to national security.

Most relevant

  • Modern Foreign Languages - Translators must be fluent in at least one language other than English, and languages like French, German, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and Arabic are in high demand. Studying foreign languages builds the vocabulary, grammar, and cultural understanding needed to accurately convert meaning from one language to another.
  • English Language - Translators need excellent writing skills in English, as they must reproduce text clearly and in the style intended by the original author. Understanding grammar, tone, register, and how to adapt writing for different audiences is essential for producing translations that read naturally.
  • English Literature - Translators who work on books, subtitles, or creative content need a strong feel for narrative, style, and literary techniques. Studying literature develops the ability to interpret meaning beyond the literal words and recreate the author's voice in another language.

Also relevant

  • Business - Translators frequently work on business documents such as contracts, reports, and marketing materials, so understanding business terminology and concepts is very useful. Many translators also work freelance or run their own agencies, which means managing finances, clients, and pricing.
  • Law - Translators often specialise in legal translation, working on contracts, court documents, and legislation where precise language is critical. Understanding legal terminology and how legal systems work helps them produce accurate translations in this high-stakes field.
  • Computer Science - Translators increasingly use translation memory software, machine translation tools, and AI-assisted platforms in their daily work. Understanding how these digital systems work – including how to configure and optimise them – helps translators work more efficiently and stay current in a rapidly changing field.
  • History - Translators need deep cultural knowledge of the countries and communities whose languages they work with. Studying history builds an understanding of how societies, politics, and cultural references have developed – context that is often essential for translating texts accurately.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • training with a professional body

You could study for a degree or postgraduate qualification, such as:

  • translation studies
  • translation and interpreting
  • modern languages
  • combined degrees, usually a language with translation studies

Some universities offer short courses in languages and translation, which can be a useful way to find out more about the subject and whether it's what you want to do.

Check the Institute of Translation and Interpreting for courses.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

You can do translation qualifications through a professional body, like the Chartered Institute of Linguists. Qualifications include:

  • Certificate in Translation (CertTrans)
  • Diploma in Translation (DipTrans)

Career tips

You'll need to be fluent in at least one second language, as well as English. You'll need a good understanding of the culture of the country or communities that use that language, usually gained by living or working abroad. You'll also need excellent writing skills.

Languages in demand by translation services include:

  • French
  • German
  • Russian
  • Chinese
  • Arabic
  • Spanish

Further information

You can find out more about how to become a translator from the Institute of Translation and Interpreting.

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