Career Profile: The Interpreter

First, let's get the most common question out of the way. What is an interpreter? Is it the same as a translator? The answer is no; they are both different. Interpreters work in spoken language (with the exception of sign language), while translators work in written language.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the average growth rate for interpreters between 2010 and 2020 will be at 42%, much faster than the national average. The BLS states that the increase for interpreters is due to the broadening of international ties and by the large increases in the number of non-English speakers in the U.S.

Interpreters often work in courtrooms, hospitals, schools and conference centers. Translators on the other hand, often work from home or from translation agencies.

There are many types of interpreters, including health or medical interpreters, legal interpreters, sign language interpreters, conference interpreters, and guide interpreters. Demand for American Sign Language interpreters is expected to grow rapidly, as well as interpreters who work for government and the military.

Currently there are an estimated 60,000 interpreters and translators in the United States and there will be more than 83,000 by 2010.

For more information about the job profile at the BLS, please visit http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Media-and-Communication/Interpreters-and-translators.htm

To learn more about PLG's interpretation services, please visit http://plg-online.com/interpretation_services.html