Translator job description: what you'll do and what to write on your resume
Applying for translator at an agency, company or as a freelancer? Copy the duties below into your resume, then read what the interview asks.
Duties to write on your resume
Start each line with what you did. Keep the ones you've really done.
Translated documents, emails and web content between English and Filipino accurately
Proofread translated work and fixed spelling, grammar and meaning errors before sending
Kept the tone, format and meaning of the original text in the final version
Used translation tools and glossaries to keep terms the same across projects
Researched unfamiliar terms in legal, medical or technical documents before translating them
Met daily and weekly deadlines for projects of different lengths
Kept client files and documents private and stored them safely
Reviewed feedback from editors and clients and updated translations to match
No agency experience yet? Use the same lines for school projects, volunteer work or translations you did for family, a church or a small business, and say where.
A resume objective you can adapt
Detail-oriented graduate with strong English and Filipino skills looking for a translator job, ready to deliver accurate work on time and keep learning new subject areas.
Skills employers ask for
Writing clearly in both languages
Spotting small mistakes when proofreading
Researching terms quickly
Using translation software and Microsoft Word
Keeping to deadlines and keeping files private
What the interview asks
Which languages do you translate between, and how did you learn them? Name your languages plainly and give a real example, like school, work or living abroad.
How do you handle a word or phrase with no direct translation? Explain how you check the context, research it and pick the closest natural meaning.
How do you check your work before you send it? Describe a simple routine, like reading it twice and comparing it with the original.
What would you do if you can't finish on time? Say you would tell the client early, share what is done and agree on a new date.
Most posts ask for a college degree, often in languages, communication or a related course, and strong skills in at least two languages.
Prepare a resume, a valid ID and your government numbers such as SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG and TIN.
Build a few sample translations to show, with permission, and keep them ready to send.
Apply to agencies and company career pages, or take freelance projects online.
Expect a short translation test before or after the interview.
What the work is like
Most of the day is spent at a computer, reading and writing. Deadlines can be tight, and the hard part is staying accurate when a document is long or technical.
Questions
Do I need experience to work as a translator?
Not always. Some agencies hire fresh graduates, but a translation test and samples of your work help a lot.
Can translators work from home?
Yes. Many translators work remotely or take freelance projects, while others work in an office.
What should I study to become a translator?
Most start with a degree in languages, communication or a related course. Strong writing in both languages matters most.
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