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The differences between freelance translators and per diem interpreters can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a freelance translator and a per diem interpreter. Additionally, a freelance translator has an average salary of $44,736, which is higher than the $42,675 average annual salary of a per diem interpreter.
The top three skills for a freelance translator include target language, web content and vice versa. The most important skills for a per diem interpreter are patients, per diem, and customer service.
| Freelance Translator | Per Diem Interpreter | |
| Yearly salary | $44,736 | $42,675 |
| Hourly rate | $21.51 | $20.52 |
| Growth rate | 20% | 20% |
| Number of jobs | 1,162 | 38,934 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 45% |
| Average age | 42 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
A freelance translator is an independent contractor specializing in translating audio or written materials into a particular language. They primarily communicate with clients to identify their needs and preferences, including project specifications such as deadlines and format. Being a freelance translator means that they can work remotely at their preferred schedule, most of the time, working from home. They are not employed under a company, which is why most freelance translators prepare their own portfolios and create client bases through websites and other platforms.
A per diem interpreter is responsible for interpreting sign or oral language and translating text from one specific language into another. You will perform several tasks that include adapting translations to students' grade and cognitive levels, working closely with other educational team members when necessary, and proofreading, revising, and editing translated materials. Additionally, you are responsible for translating messages into one language orally using hand signs and explaining translation requirements to clients. As a pier diem interpreter, you are also responsible for checking translated texts for technical terminology.
Freelance translators and per diem interpreters have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Freelance Translator | Per Diem Interpreter | |
| Average salary | $44,736 | $42,675 |
| Salary range | Between $27,000 And $72,000 | Between $26,000 And $68,000 |
| Highest paying City | - | Davis, CA |
| Highest paying state | - | New York |
| Best paying company | - | Cottage Health |
| Best paying industry | - | Health Care |
There are a few differences between a freelance translator and a per diem interpreter in terms of educational background:
| Freelance Translator | Per Diem Interpreter | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 45% |
| Most common major | English | Nursing |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between freelance translators' and per diem interpreters' demographics:
| Freelance Translator | Per Diem Interpreter | |
| Average age | 42 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 34.5% Female, 65.5% | Male, 33.7% Female, 66.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 7.1% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 28.0% Asian, 16.3% White, 43.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | Black or African American, 6.4% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 22.5% Asian, 10.8% White, 55.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 15% | 15% |