What is a Technical Translator?

By definition, a technical translator is a professional that is specialized in the translation and adaptation of technical texts and documents such as user manuals, scientific articles, and product specifications.  Their work requires the understand the technical with great writing skills, precision and in-depth knowledge of the specific sector. For many clients, the technical translator is a key element within large projects involving technical writing and the expansion of activities in foreign markets and, in general, the international sharing of industry-specific information. This is why they have must have the skills needed to produce work of of high quality.

This profession is very specialized within the translation field. Not many people know that there is a significant difference, for example, between literary and technical translations. This difference is also reflected in translation rates.

Let’s see, then, how to become a technical translator and what path to take after graduation.

Also Read: What is technical translation?

What does a technical translator do?

A technical translator deals with the translation and adaptation of commercial technical text. Predominantly in the web and technical documentation fields. Here is a more properly explained summary for this profession:

The technical translator is a professional figure who has recently emerged in the job market due to the increasing demand for translations of technical texts to be published on online magazines, informative websites, software documentation, as well as translating technical information to be published in a journal.

Technical translators are in high demand for their ability to provide reworkings of texts with high specific content. This was a major win for the translation industry as it meant there were translators fluent in various languages but also with a high degree in technical knowledge could spread their industry experience abroad and impact the workforce. 

To work as a translator in this field, the translator needs to possess linguistic and specialist skills in the precise sector in which one chooses to operate. The world of technical industries is vast; therefore, the translator must specialize in one in particular and aim to become a true expert.

It is extremely important that the translator perfectly knows the target foreign language, as a translation error could distort and compromise the final meaning with potentially very serious repercussions. If a translator is trustworthy, they will have a lot of leverage within the field, but one wrong move and it will put their entire line of work in technical translation services at risk.

How to become a technical translator?

What is the path to becoming a technical translator? Generally speaking, there are two paths to becoming a professional translator:

• Obtaining a degree in foreign languages and literature.
• Living abroad for an extended period, sufficient to fully master the local language.

But a degree and fluency are never enough, and certainly not by today’s standards anymore.  In addition to perfect language skills, it’s necessary to network, and accumulate experience in the technical fields you want to work in. Technical translators are true specialists in their sector to be in a good place for hire. This can be achieved through acquiring training certificates, a skills test, or a technical bachelor’s degree, but significant on-the-job experience is always necessary. While experienced translators understand this, many new to the field likely won’t.

Those who wish to become technical translators must be aware that it is not a simple or quick path, as it requires continuous study and a good deal of practical experience. New translators also need to understand simply knowing technical concepts within, say a relevant engineering field, like aerospace, within a target language – though nice, will not amount to much. Nevertheless, for those passionate about both languages and technology, it can be a very exciting path. If you are fortunate enough to have both linguistic and technical aptitude, as well as the right curiosity and dedication, the profession of technical translator is a very rewarding one.

What qualifications do I need to become a technical translator?

We have generally discussed the path to becoming a technical translator. Let’s now examine the essential requirements point by point:

• Excellent command of working languages: a translator is generally expert in their native language and a specific number of target languages.  They must have a perfect understanding of the grammar, lexicon, syntax, idioms, cultural background, etc., of all these languages.
• Specific technical skills: after choosing a field of expertise, the translator must study to become an expert in that field. If necessary, they should obtain a diploma or degree, or follow courses and delve deeper into the subject to fully master not only the terminology but also the technical dynamics.
• Terminological research skills: experience and continuous study hone the particular ability of the technical translator to research and identify the specific terms of their field of work.
• Knowledge of technological tools: an important part of a translator’s job is the correct use of technological tools designed to support their work, optimize time, and facilitate revisions. These include CAT tools (Computer-Assisted Translation), SDL Trados, MemoQ, and Wordfast, linguistic glossaries, etc.

What training is necessary?

There is no official register of translators in the United States. It is possible to become a translator through various paths, ranging from enrolling in a university degree program in linguistics to independent on-the-job training. Specific training in language learning and to translate technical documents will always be necessary to keep skills fresh as there are many changes that occur yearly between language vocabulary of a given subject and more. 

Are there specific degrees required for technical translation?

To follow the traditional, or “orthodox” path – as in the academic one – to become a technical translator is certainly useful by obtaining a degree in foreign languages in cultures. However, the most famous academic route to become a technical translator would be to pursue a Master’s degree in Translation or Translation studies in a highly recognized university. The most notable among institutions is MIIS or Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, California. They are considered the “Harvard of translation and interpretation” in the U.S.. They also offer MAs in Translation, Translation and Interpretation, and Translation and Localization Management. Though this is the most notable, there are other highly regarded universities like, Kent State University in Ohio or University of Maryland in Maryland that offer very strong tracks for Translation degrees.

Should I take any certification courses for technical translation?

Another path is that of professional certifications. In the U.S., there is the professional certification for translators, like the ATA Certification, which is the American Translators Association. Though it is voluntary, it could really set someone apart. There is also the Court Interpreters/Translators which often need to pass a state exam or already be certified by NAJIT (National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators), for example and Medical Interpreting, which requires a certification through CCHI (Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters)or NBCMI (National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters).

Another important step could be to join foreign professional associations, such as AITI (Italian Association of Translators and Interpreters), ANITI (National Italian Association of Translators and Interpreters), CIOL (Chartered Institute of Linguists – UK association), ITI (Institute of Translation & Interpreting – UK association), and many others.

This is not to mention, if one chooses the path of certification abroad, in Great Britain there is the Chartered Institute of Linguists which offers certification programs; in Australia and Canada, the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI).

Those who intend to be certified in multiple languages can attempt the United Nations (UN) translation certification, which requires knowledge of English, French, or Spanish, which will increase the chances of government employment.

In short, there is no single path to becoming a translator and certifying one’s skills: there are multiple paths.  Everyone can choose the one that best suits them, bearing in mind that a high level of competence and experience is necessary to be competitive in the market.

Is a degree necessary?

Technically, a degree in languages isn’t mandatory to become a translator in the U.S., but in practice, demonstrating competence through qualifications and certifications is essential to work in this field.  Without a degree, it’s much harder to convince clients of your professional quality, but it’s possible with extensive and proven experience, certifications, etc.  Even to become a sworn translator with registration on the register of court technical consultants, a high-level curriculum is necessary.  Therefore, a degree in languages is not indispensable but preferable and will most often verify trust that the individual is competent enough to utilize their tools and abilities to ensure the translations are accurate to the employer.

However, a degree alone is insufficient:  specializations and extensive practice are also necessary. This can be the most difficult part for a recent graduate.  The following paragraph offers some advice on gaining experience.

How can I gain experience in technical translation?

The dilemma for many recent graduates is how to take their first steps, namely how to make the crucial transition from university to the working world.

This is especially true for translation, a profession that is learned and perfected through practice.  University manuals and translation techniques are helpful to a certain point, but to embark on this path, it is necessary to experience firsthand how to translate a text, again and again.

So how is it possible to build up a portfolio of skills? Let’s look at some useful starting points:

• Practicing independently using online programs.
• Contacting experienced translators and offering to collaborate.
• Forming a peer group with other translators to exchange advice and knowledge.
• Attending literary events such as the PEN World Voices Festival in New York, or the American Literary Translators Association (ALTA) Conference in Arizona
• PEN World Voices Festival in New York and ALTA Conference in Arizona, to create new contacts.
• Applying to agencies for internships and traineeships.

How do I find work as a freelance technical translator?

Now that we’ve examined just how to become a technical translator and some of the methods for gaining experience, we can take a look at the different types of careers that can be pursued.

There are two possible career paths for a translator:

• Working for a translation agency
• Working as a freelancer.

One must understand that both solutions have advantages and disadvantages, so there is no single best solution in the translation world.  It’s all about understanding which job best suits one’s skills and needs.

Those who work as collaborators for a translation agency have the great advantage of not necessarily having to find clients and having a fixed monthly salary.  On the other hand, they will have to adhere to certain working hours and locations and strictly respect delivery dates. Obviously, part of the fee paid by the client is shared with the agency.

Freelance work certainly has the great advantage of offering greater expressive freedom, ensuring full profit from the client’s payment, and conferring a certain freedom regarding working hours and locations. On the other hand, it requires a lot of time dedicated to finding new clients and communicating with them, and naturally does not guarantee a fixed income to rely on.

Online translation agencies are positioned as an intermediate solution between these two options.

These are agencies that offer translation services at competitive prices, relying on a large and diverse team of remote professionals specializing in various thematic areas.

Offering your services to an online translation agency could therefore be the ideal solution to ensure a fixed income without sacrificing some of the advantages of a freelance career. Not to mention you open ones self up to teach.

What is the average salary for a technical translator?

The translation profession is so varied and diverse that it’s difficult to estimate earnings.  However, the first thing to highlight is the difference in pay between a general translator and a technical translator: the latter offers themselves as a specialized professional and will therefore earn more than a colleague without specific skills.

Certainly, a technical translator’s salary varies according to experience and specialization.

Beginner translators may start with lower rates, while established professionals often manage to negotiate significantly higher rates. According to recent research, professionals with over ten years of experience earn up to double what beginners earn. But let’s see what factors significantly affect a translator’s earnings:

• Specialization: Technical fields like engineering tend to be better paid.
• Work location: Large cities offer more opportunities than less densely populated areas.
• Online platforms: Specialized websites can increase the chances of finding clients.
• Language combination: A technical translator specializing in English-Italian translations will have a larger market but also many competitors, while a Hungarian-Italian translator will have a smaller market but also fewer competitors. Or English to Japanese or Latin to Chinese might need to get some help to find people as there won’t be as many competitors and thus work within a small market despite how large the Asian market might be.

On average, in the U.S., a freelance technical translator can earn between $30 and $75 per hour, while employees in companies can receive annual salaries between $45,000 and $120,000. This can also change due to the technical and medical nature of the translation as these areas tend to pay more, not to mention the language rarity.

Also Read: How Much Does Technical Translation Cost?

What skills are essential for a successful technical translator?

Current technological tools now play a key role in the translation world. The use of advanced software can significantly increase work efficiency, allowing professionals to manage large volumes of work without compromising the quality of the service offered. The aforementioned CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools can really make the difference. Even a tool like Excel can make an impact but below are some reasons why CAT tools have revolutionized translation.

Investing in training on the use of these tools can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries.

CAT tools are able to create very large translation memories and offer a number of essential advantages for a professional translator.  The most relevant are:

• Text analysis and evaluation of repetitions, concordances, etc.
• Ensuring linguistic and terminological consistency
• Creation of reusable glossaries for each client or subject area
• Revision
• Export in the same format as the original
• Quick calculation of the number of files, words, keystrokes, etc.

The most popular CAT tools are:

• SDL Trados Studio: For many translators, this is the quintessential CAT tool.
• Déjà Vu X3: Used by more than 3,000 agencies worldwide and over 10,000 translators for its speed in handling large projects, easily exportable glossaries, and ease of use.
• MemoQ: Widely used in both its Classic and Pro versions.
• Wordfast:  Rapidly gaining popularity due to its intuitive interface and high compatibility with other computer-assisted translation tools.

Conclusions

Working in the field of technical translation is much more than converting text between two languages or from one language to another: it is a sector of translation where linguistic knowledge precisely and accurately combines with technical expertise. A single negative remark could have dire consequences, while a positive one could lead to landing a translation for a major patent deal as a freelancer. As we have seen, the skills necessary to become a technical translator can be acquired in various ways, all equally valid if supported by passion, seriousness, and consistency.

Also Read: What are the different types of translation?