Summary
| 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, 2021 | 69,400 | ||
| Job Outlook, 2021-31 | 20% (Much faster than average) | ||
| Employment Change, 2021-31 | 14,000 | ||
What Interpreters and Translators Do
Interpreters and translators convert information from one language into another language.
Work Environment
Interpreters and translators work in settings such as schools, hospitals, courtrooms, meeting rooms, and conference centers. Part-time work is common, and work schedules may vary.
How to Become an Interpreter or Translator
Interpreters and translators typically need at least a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. They also must be proficient in English and at least one other language, as well as in the interpretation or translation service they intend to provide.
Pay
The median annual wage for interpreters and translators was $49,110 in May 2021.
Job Outlook
Employment of interpreters and translators is projected to grow 20 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 9,200 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.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for interpreters and translators.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of interpreters and translators with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about interpreters and translators by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.