Translator Career Description
Translators translate written material from one language into another, ideally from their second language into their mother tongue. The work demands a high level of training and language skill.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Translators form vital links in the local and international communication network and play an important role in a multilingual country like South Africa. Their work ranges from the translation of legislation and reports of government commissions to instruction manuals, tourist brochures, company reports, patents, scientific papers, advertisements, educational texts and even literary works. This means that translators not only need excellent language skills, but also require expertise in various fields.
Translators usually start by studying the text to be translated. Translators must understand the nature of the information in the text well and know where to find additional information on the subject.
Translation is a versatile career, since translators may also qualify to work as language editors, dubbers, interpreters, journalists, copy-writers, public relations officers and terminologists.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Prospective translators must have a flair for languages and be versatile enough to be able to cope with texts in a variety of fields. They should also pay careful attention to detail and be able to do research on the content and background of a text.
Where can I work?
South Africa has 11 official languages, which means that translators are needed at all levels in the public and private sectors. Institutions such as Parliament, the State Language Services, the National Terminology Services, provincial governments, universities and all make extensive use of translators, as do private institutions such as banks, insurance companies and the media.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Many translators translate on a free-lance basis, operating from their own homes. The market is competitive, which means that translators should ideally have a word processor, telephone, fax machine and even e-mail and Internet at their disposal in order to provide a professional service. It is therefore a good idea to complete a course on how to start your own business.
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