Language Professionals See More Opportunities Ahead

Language professionals see a bright future in their careers today especially that communication has become the most vital aspect in connecting people around the world. While English is recognized as the universal language that officially bridges multilingual countries, it has not yet captured international usage at a comprehensive level. Hence the need for interpreters and translators prevails.

In demand career

The growth of language translation as a career has taken a dramatic turn for the past decade such that a person who has mastered this skill has a great potential in the employment market. With a promising job, more aspiring translators are now making important decisions on how to further enhance their skills. It is fortunate that training assistance is available in many licensed language centers, some of which even get support from government entities in certain localities. The demand for the job is also highlighted by the increasing necessity for correspondence via technology.

Not as simple

According to professionals in the translation field, knowledge of either two languages is not enough to make a language career. Being an interpreter is not as simple as translating words from one language or dialect to another. Interpreting or translation is far more than this concept. Translation at its best and most effective form is done by translating words to another language and then conveying the idea by capturing the cultural tone and purpose that the speaker wants to convey.

Projected salaries

There is no fixed median for salary range among interpreters and translators. The figures vary according to qualifications and positions. Compared with other careers however, the starting wage for language professionals is at a better edge since they are to some extent considered highly skilled workers. Accordingly, the average salary of translators in 2011 was set at $44,160 annually for those who have been in the field for some time. On the other hand, beginners received an earning of $23,710 while those who are on top of the ladder received $118,010 for one whole year.

Specialized skill

Labor analysts say that the specialized skill and particular field of the individual in part determines the salary course for translators and interpreters. The highest salaries often go to those with trainings in computer system design and other technical services, management as well as scientific and technical consulting services. The salary range for these professionals extends from $90,000 to over $100,000 yearly. Meanwhile translators who work with the federal government receive $75,150 every year. Another factor that has an effect on the amount of pay for language translators and interpreters is the location. In 2001, those who worked in the United States got to be paid more in these states: New Jersey ($62,050), Maine ($63,890) and New Jersey ($62,050).

Career potential

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has announced that there is a growth of career potential in the field of language translation. In 2010 up to 2020, demand for these professionals went up by 42%, which is significantly higher than any other profession. The prospect remains to be favorable for interpreters in French, German and Spanish languages and also in Arabic and other languages in the Middle East.

Photo Credit: Interpreters at work