Localization Specialists

Employers

Localization specialists are employed by translation agencies, companies of all sizes, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Approximately 27 percent of translators and interpreters are self-employed, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Starting Out

Information about job opportunities can be obtained by participating in online and in-person networking activities, attending career fairs, using LinkedIn and other professional networking Web sites, utilizing the resources of one’s college career center, or by visiting the Web sites of organizations that employ localization specialists.

The American Translators Association offers a Language Services Directory on its Web site (https://www.atanet.org/directory) that lists its individual and organizational members. Check out the directory for potential employers. The directory is also a good source of potential information interview and job shadowing candidates.

Check out the ATA’s free Guide to Starting Out as a Translator and the video Careers in Translation and Interpreting (https://www.atanet.org/career-education/student-resources) for advice on breaking into the field and building a translation business.

Another useful resource is the Guide to Localization Management, which seeks to “assist the localization manager in planning, budgeting and executing a successful localization strategy.” Visit https://translationjournal.net/e-Books/guide-to-localization-management.html to access the free guide.