The profession of a translator is still little known to some people. It designates a professional who translates or transcribes texts or conversations in a foreign language into their mother tongue with accuracy and fluency. The translator can be an employee of an agency or work as a freelancer.

To be able to orientate oneself correctly, it is essential to understand everything about this profession. Currently, many young people are studying languages or literature to acquire the necessary knowledge to enter this profession. In addition to this, the desire to travel, share, and communicate or the passion for languages pushes them to do so.

What Training Should Be Followed?

Several training courses allow you to enter this profession. Language training is the basis of translation. It is recommended that you continue your studies until you obtain a Master’s degree in foreign language literature and civilization, applied foreign languages, etc. Then, it is possible to continue the studies to specialize in a well-defined discipline. In addition, several recognized institutions can deliver this professional master’s degree in translation.

What Are the Qualities and Skills Required?

As translation is a specific profession, it requires various particular skills. A translator must be curious and have a mind that likes to discover new things. They must also be precise, flexible, and patient in their work. In addition to a thorough knowledge of foreign languages, an excellent command of one’s native language is essential to correctly translate a document without changing its original linguistic and cultural codes.

What Are the Categories of Translator?

The term translator is used to define different jobs related to translation. Thus, various categories of translators exist. Let’s mention a few:

– The literary translator: in the true sense of the word, they translate literary works. Literary translators most often work in the publishing sector. They can also work as freelance agents.

– The technical translator: they are specialized in a specific field. A technical translator comes from a different background than a translator, which allows them to understand significantly the content they are translating. They are allowed to use technical terms in their translation. They can also be responsible for translating user manuals in the health field, reports, or regulatory files in the administrative area.

– Sworn translator: This is a legal professional who translates official documents. They may also perform the duties of an interpreter when the courts or other administrative bodies prefer them to do so.

In these three types of translator positions, it is in everyone’s interest to master the computer field, as there are translation software programs that are useful in applying the profession.

How Much Do They Earn?

A translator’s salary varies depending on the category. It can also depend on the translator’s experience, specialization, and status. The monthly salary varies between 2,000 and 3,000 euros gross for a beginner. This can evolve according to seniority in the profession.

Is There Any Possibility of Advancement?

There are many opportunities for advancement in this sector. For example, a translator can become a translation project coordinator or manager, or even the head of a translation agency. During his or her career, a translator can deepen his or her skills while specializing in terminology or court translation. In addition, after gaining experience in the field, a translator can move into language teaching, journalism, or an international career.