Interpreters & Translators

Almost Every Industry has a Place for an Interpreter & Translator! Interpreters and translators assist individuals by facilitating communication between parties who speak two different languages. They do this by interpreting, translating and re-communicating both verbal and written messages from one language into another. This includes both spoken language and sign languages. Interpreters work with the spoken communication while the translators work with the written communication. Their responsibilities vary depending on the industry, but most are similar as their main goal is for both parties to equally understand and communicate with one another. Many large corporations and government agencies demand interpreters and translators because they either do business or interact with an individual(s) that may not be fluent in the particular language spoken. The market for interpreters and translators has skyrocketed with an expected 28% increase by 2028. The future job prospects are very good compared to other jobs, but those who intend to be interpreters and translators will have to expect strong competition due to a growing interest in the field. 

The Number of Interpreters & Translators is expected to increase by 28 percent from 2018 to 2028 with an annual job opening of 2,308. 

Although Entry-level wages for Interpreters & Translators start off below the median for all occupations, more than half of all workers in this profession earn over $49,000 a year! 

Although Technical services is great industry for Translators & Interpreters to enter, there are many industries that need Translators and interpreters. 

What does it take to excel in this career you might ask?

 
How to Become an Interpreter or Translator

Get the education you need: Find schools for Interpreters and Translators near you! After knowing what a job is all about, it is important to understand how to train for it. This section describes the most significant sources of training, including the training preferred by employers, the typical length of training, and advancement possibilities. Job skills are sometimes acquired through high school, informal on-the-job training, formal training (including apprenticeships), the Armed Forces, home study, hobbies, or previous work experience. For example, sales experience is particularly important for many sales jobs. Many professional and technical jobs, on the other hand, require formal postsecondary education-postsecondary vocational or technical training, or college, postgraduate, or professional education. In addition to training requirements, this section also mentions desirable skills, aptitudes, and personal characteristics. For some entry-level jobs, personal characteristics are more important than formal training. Employers generally seek people who read, write, and speak well; compute accurately; think logically; learn quickly; get along with others; and demonstrate dependability. Some occupations require certification or licensing to enter the field, to advance, or to practice independently. Certification or licensing generally involves completing courses and passing examinations. Many occupations increasingly have continuing education or skill improvement requirements to keep up with the changing economy or to improve advancement opportunities.   Although interpreters and translators typically need at least a bachelor's degree, the most important requirement is that they be fluent in at least two languages (English and at least one other language).          

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf

Interpreters & Translation Programs in the Gulf Coast Region Community Colleges

• Alvin Community College
• Houston Community College System
• Lee College
• Lone Star College System
• San Jacinto College
• Wharton County Junior College

Universities

• Rice University
• Sam Houston State University
• Texas Woman's University
• University of Houston