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The differences between interpreters and freelance translators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both an interpreter and a freelance translator. Additionally, a freelance translator has an average salary of $44,736, which is higher than the $42,008 average annual salary of an interpreter.
The top three skills for an interpreter include patients, customer service and ASL. The most important skills for a freelance translator are target language, web content, and vice versa.
| Interpreter | Freelance Translator | |
| Yearly salary | $42,008 | $44,736 |
| Hourly rate | $20.20 | $21.51 |
| Growth rate | 20% | 20% |
| Number of jobs | 3,772 | 1,162 |
| Job satisfaction | 4 | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 56% | Bachelor's Degree, 60% |
| Average age | 42 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
An interpreter is responsible for facilitating communication between different language speakers by translating information from one language to another for easy comprehension. Some interpreters work on spoken languages while the rest specialize in sign languages. Interpreters must have strong knowledge and expertise in their chosen language to translate communication accurately and efficiently. They should also provide written texts as needed, especially in the transcription and publishing industry. Interpreters must be detail-oriented all the time to communicate the message effectively without altering its core content.
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.
Interpreters and freelance translators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Interpreter | Freelance Translator | |
| Average salary | $42,008 | $44,736 |
| Salary range | Between $29,000 And $60,000 | Between $27,000 And $72,000 |
| Highest paying City | Arlington, VA | - |
| Highest paying state | Virginia | - |
| Best paying company | Cottage Health | - |
| Best paying industry | Government | - |
There are a few differences between an interpreter and a freelance translator in terms of educational background:
| Interpreter | Freelance Translator | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 56% | Bachelor's Degree, 60% |
| Most common major | Business | English |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between interpreters' and freelance translators' demographics:
| Interpreter | Freelance Translator | |
| Average age | 42 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 38.7% Female, 61.3% | Male, 34.5% Female, 65.5% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 5.8% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 32.8% Asian, 17.5% White, 38.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | 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% |
| LGBT Percentage | 15% | 15% |