Interpreters and translators convert spoken and written language between different languages. You bridge communication gaps for individuals, organizations, and communities. The work is detail-oriented, relies on strong language skills, and typically requires a bachelor's degree.
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Interpreters and translators help people who speak different languages understand each other. You may interpret conversations in real time, translate written documents, or both. The work demands precision with grammar, vocabulary, and cultural context. You establish trust with clients, stay current with language changes and specialized terminology, and often work in high-stakes settings like healthcare, legal proceedings, education, or business. You listen actively, read carefully, and communicate clearly under pressure.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Interpreters and Translators earn a median of $60,170 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 6,900 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most interpreters and translators earn a bachelor's degree, often in a foreign language, linguistics, or a related field. Your education builds deep fluency in at least two languages and introduces translation or interpretation techniques. Beyond the degree, many pursue specialized training in fields like medical or legal interpretation. You'll also develop your skills through practice, ongoing language study, and real-world experience. Job Zone 4 preparation means considerable time and effort to reach proficiency.
Most paths to this career start with a bachelor's degree in a foreign language or related field. If you're deciding between different educational routes or want to map out your next steps, Pathly can map the interpreter and translator path that fits you with your counselor to build a plan that fits your timeline and goals.
Many interpreter and translators must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You value accuracy, organization, and clear communication. You're comfortable following established procedures and standards. You work well with people and take pride in getting the details right.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
Start with a quick quiz and assessments that surface your personality, your EQ, and what really motivates you, so your next steps are built around who you actually are.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).