Translator
Convert the written word from one language into another without changing the meaning or tone.
About the job
What it's like
You would convert the written word from one language into another without changing the meaning or tone.
You could work on a number of subjects, or specialise in a particular area, such as:
Scientific, technical or commercial material like reports, manuals and brochures
Legal documents, such as contracts
Literary work, such as novels, plays and poetry
Media work, such as film scripts and subtitles for films
Educational resources, such as textbooks, e-books and apps
Online content, such as e-commerce, interactive platforms, business to business websites and blogs
You would:
Reproduce the text clearly, accurately and in the original style
Use specialist knowledge, such as technical terms
Research legal, technical or scientific terms and consult with experts to check accuracy
Match the culture of the target audience
In large companies you may edit rough translations created using computers. You may also use other types of translation software.
Hours
As a translator employed by a company, you would work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. As a self-employed translator your hours would vary depending on how much work you have.
Environment
Your work would normally be office-based and you may work alone a lot of the time. Occasionally you may need to visit clients, experts or specialist organisations, but most contact would be by email, phone or post.
Travel
Some jobs are based abroad, such as those with the United Nations (UN) or the European Union (EU). Some international organisations also outsource their translation work to agencies and freelancers.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Chartered Institute of Linguists - professional membership body for language practitioners
Society of Authors Translator Association - professional body for people working in this field
European Commission Directorate-General for Translation - About translating for Europe
Scotland's National Centre for Languages - Case studies and information
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Social care Healthcare Digital technologies
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- language translation
- source language
- language interpretation
- registration
- public service
- intercultural studies
- cultural studies
- content design
- research funding
- linguistics
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- problem solving
- observation
- researching
- written communication
- verbal communication
- recalling
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Modern Languages
Cantonese
English
English and Communication
ESOL
French
Gaelic (Learners)
Gàidhlig
German
Italian
Latin
Mandarin
Spanish
Urdu
You do not always need a Higher in each language, as long as you can show good language ability.
Entry to a postgraduate diploma, PgDip, (SCQF level 11) in Translating requires a relevant degree.
Qualifications and experience that demonstrate the application of linguistic skills such as SQA Modern Language for Life and Work Award (SCQF Level 3/4).
The Chartered Institute of Linguists' Diploma in Translation (DipTrans) is valued within the industry.
Once qualified membership of The Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIoL) or the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) may be helpful.
To enter this career you must be fluent in at least one other language but some roles require fluency in two or more languages.
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