Quick Facts: Interpreters and Translators |
2021 Median Pay | $49,110 per year $23.61 per hour |
Typical Entry-Level Education | Bachelor's degree |
Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
On-the-job Training | None |
Number of Jobs, 2020 | 81,400 |
Job Outlook, 2020-30 | 24% (Much faster than average) |
Employment Change, 2020-30 | 19,300 |
Interpreters and translators convert information from one language into another language. Interpreters work in spoken or sign language; translators work in written language.
Interpreters work in settings such as schools, hospitals, courtrooms, meeting rooms, and conference centers. Some work for translation and interpretation companies, individual organizations, or private clients. Many translators also work remotely. Self-employed interpreters and translators frequently have variable work schedules. Most interpreters and translators work full time during regular business hours.
Although interpreters and translators typically need at least a bachelor’s degree, the most important requirement is to have native-level proficiency in English and at least one other language.
The median annual wage for interpreters and translators was $49,110 in May 2021.
Employment of interpreters and translators is projected to grow 24 percent from 2020 to 2030 much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 10,400 openings for interpreters and translators are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. Job prospects should be best for those who have professional certification.
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for interpreters and translators.
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of interpreters and translators with similar occupations.
Learn more about interpreters and translators by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Interpreters and Translators,
on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/interpreters-and-translators.htm (visited May 5, 2022).