Translators

Earnings for translators vary depending on experience, skills, number of languages used, and employers. In government, translators generally begin at the GS-5 rating, earning from $30,113 to $39,149 in 2020. Those with a college degree can start at the higher GS-7 level, earning from $37,301 to $48,888. With an advanced degree, trainees begin at the GS-9 ($45,627 to $59,316), GS-10 ($50,246 to $65,321), or GS-11 level ($55,204 to $71,764).

Translators who work on a freelance basis usually charge by the word, the page, the hour, or the project. By the hour, freelance translators usually earn between $15 and $50; however, rates vary depending on the language and the subject matter. Book translators work under contract with publishers. These contracts cover the fees that are to be paid for translating work as well as royalties, advances, penalties for late payments, and other provisions.

The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the median salary for translators and interpreters was $51,830 in May 2019, with salaries ranging from $28,170 to $94,370 or higher. Interpreters and translators who worked for federal government agencies had higher salaries than those offered by other employers, averaging about $83,300 per year in 2019.

Depending on the employer, translators often enjoy such benefits as health and life insurance, pension plans, and paid vacation and sick days.