Interpreters use their knowledge of languages and cultures to convert a spoken
or signed language into another spoken or signed language, usually within a
limited time frame and in the presence of the participants who need to
communicate.
How much can I expect to earn?
Full-time employed Interpreter earn an average of $1353 per week. The [average
annual salary for this job is $70356 excluding super.]
Personal requirements
excellent command of English
fluency or ability to learn at least one other language
able to interpret accurately and objectively
initiative and research skills
broad general knowledge
good concentration skills
good memory
able to maintain confidentiality
understanding and acceptance of different cultures.
This job also involves:
Mainly indoor work
Workers performing these jobs would usually be expected to spend more than
three-quarters of their day indoors, in an office, factory or other enclosed
area protected from the weather.
Reading or writing
These jobs require moderate or better reading and writing skills. Workers may
be expected to prepare, understand or act on written materials, such as
letters or reports. People may wish to avoid these jobs if their reading or
writing English skills are limited to a small range of words or phrases and
symbols. Jobs remaining may still require very basic reading or writing
skills.
This occupation offers jobs at the following skill levels:
Professional Jobs
Jobs in this group usually require completion of a recognised Bachelor Degree,
or extensive relevant experience. Some jobs also require post-graduate study,
such as a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Master Degree.
Study requirements
At school, you can study these subject(s) to get a good foundation for this
occupation:
English
School subjects that include some aspect of English provide a useful
background to these jobs. In some cases an English-related subject is a pre-
requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
Languages
School subjects that include some aspect of LANGUAGE provide a useful
background to these jobs. In some cases a language-related subject is a pre-
requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
Duties and tasks of an Interpreter
Interpreters may perform the following tasks:
interpret verbal or signed communications between two parties
provide simultaneous or consecutive interpretations of conversations or speeches
express the meaning and feeling of what is said or signed in another language in the appropriate tone and style within a range of settings
verbally translate written texts.
Specialisations
Interpreters usually specialise in a particular language combination (French
and English, for example) and may also specialise in a particular subject
area, such as commerce, law, health, science, technology or welfare.