Translator
A translator works with a variety of texts and translates them from one language to another. Translation is a written job, which requires not only language skills but also cultural knowledge and a good general education. Translators are often employed by translation agencies, companies, public administration or are self-employed and freelance. In addition to language skills, the profession requires text production skills, analytical and information-seeking skills, self-reliance and a willingness to learn continuously.
In translation agencies, companies, associations, international organisations, public administration, universities and colleges, as well as in self-employment or freelance work.
A translator is required to have a strong command of both their mother tongue and other working languages. A translator is familiar not only with the working language but also with the cultures of the languages they work in, and is able to take into account the specific features of the two languages and cultures. Writing fluid text requires good written expression, a good sense of linguistic style and knowledge of different types of text.
Self-motivation, cooperation skills, proactivity and good information-seeking skills are important qualities for a translator, as the profession requires a wide range of background knowledge in different fields and active monitoring of current affairs. The use of translation tools and artificial intelligence also require technical skills. Curiosity and a willingness to learn new things are an asset to a translator.
A professional translator is familiar with the operating practices, contractual practices and ethical guidelines of their field. In addition to translation, the profession of translator may also involve other specialist work such as proofreading, terminology work and language planning and maintenance skills. You also need to be able to cope with stress as translation deadlines can be tight.
To become a professional, you need to know the basics of running a business and be able to market your services. Your own proactivity is crucial in this.
You can study different languages at university and, after your bachelor's degree, you can apply for a master's programme in translation and interpreting, for example.
The profession of translator is not regulated by law.
The qualifications of an authorised translator are laid down in the Act on Authorised Translators (7.12.2007/1231). An authorised translator is allowed to produce legally valid translations that are needed, for example, by public authorities and the judiciary.
Median salary
3533 €/mo
Private sector
3481 €/mo
Public sector
3754 €/mo
The data is based on the median income, meaning the amount of salary which is the middle of the salary amounts arranged in order of magnitude.
Source: Statistics Finland's structural statistics on wages and salaries