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Cultural Interpreter, Interpreter, Language Specialist
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.
Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.
2006 NOC
2006 NOC-S
2011 NOC
2016 NOC
2021 NOC
2023 OaSIS
Language interpreters translate, as closely as possible, from one language to another.
In consecutive interpretation, they translate when a speaker pauses. The interpreter at times may interrupt the speaker in order to repeat, clarify, or rephrase, in order to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the message.
In simultaneous interpretation, they interpret the words immediately as they are spoken. These interpreters work in teams. Each person works for 20-minute periods during conferences and meetings. Language interpreters provide services at international summits, professional seminars, and other events where real-time bilingual or multilingual communication is crucial. Ideally, language interpreters should have advance access to any written text they will interpret, to help them prepare for their assignments beforehand.
Interpreters also perform a sign translation, which is the conversion from written material in one language to a spoken version in another language. It also occurs when an instant oral version is required for a written text.
In addition to translating spoken words, interpreters may provide background cultural information. They may identify and resolve conflicts related to the meaning of words, concepts, practices, or behaviour.
For information on sign language interpreters, please see the Sign Language Interpreter occupational profile.
Language interpreters often work within regular office hours, but they sometimes work evenings and weekends.
Telephone or video remote services are becoming more popular. Although they are convenient, they also add challenges. For example, body language clues are not visible during a phone conference call, and therefore cannot be interpreted. And a stable internet connection is required for video sessions.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Interest in listening to speakers or reading from texts in order to interpret statements made during speeches, meetings, conferences, debates and conversation, or in court or before administrative tribunals
Interest in analyzing information when listening to and watching the source language, in processing the content, meaning, context and affect, and in reproducing messages simultaneously, or consecutively
Interest in speaking to facilitate communication between individuals with differing languages
To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.
A Quick Guide
You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.
The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.
The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.
Language interpreters need:
They should enjoy:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 102 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Jan 28, 2023 and Jul 18, 2025.
Review these skills to learn:
| Experience: Will train | 52 |
|---|---|
| Own Tools/Equipment: Cellular phone | 26 |
| Tasks: Interpret oral communication from one language to another aloud or using electronic equipment | 22 |
| Tasks: Interpret language for individuals and small groups | 22 |
| Tasks: Interpret for persons speaking an Aboriginal or foreign language | 21 |
| Construction Specialization: Accurate | 19 |
| Construction Specialization: Excellent oral communication | 19 |
| Construction Specialization: Excellent written communication | 18 |
| Construction Specialization: Client focus | 18 |
| Tasks: Translate a variety of written material | 18 |
There is no required education to become a language interpreter. However, interpreters often work without the benefit of written resources, so accredited training and qualifications are essential. A bachelor’s degree in 1 or more languages is recommended. The ability to read and write in their alternative languages is also an asset. The best practical training for interpreters is to spend a considerable length of time living in the culture of the targeted language.
European standards for translators and interpreters stipulate at least 2 languages in addition to their mother tongue. Studying or living in Europe is excellent preparation for employment with international organizations.
In Canada, the University of Ottawa and York University offer a master's degree in conference interpreting. For a current list of interpreter training, see the International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) website.
Bilingualism or fluency in 1 or more languages other than English is a prerequisite for training programs.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:
Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.
Certification is not required, as there is currently no legislation regulating this occupation. However, voluntary certifications are available from the Association of Translators and Interpreters of Alberta (ATIA).
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Few interpreters, other than those in government, are employed on a full-time or part-time basis. Language interpreters generally work freelance.
They may work:
Advancement generally takes the form of building a more extensive client base.
Conference interpreters provide services for international and national organizations or business and academic clients who require seamless communication across languages and cultures. While most are freelance, some work for international or national institutions, governments, or large companies.
This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Translators, terminologists and interpreters
2016 NOC: 5125
84.4% of people in this occupational group work in:
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2024-2026 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.
This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.
Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Freelance interpreters charge hourly fees that depend on their education, background, and area of specialization. Annual incomes vary from 1 interpreter to another and may vary from 1 year to another. However, in general, conference interpreters earn more than court interpreters.
Association of Translators and Interpreters of Alberta (ATIA) website: www.atia.ab.ca
Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC) website: www.cttic.org
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 22, 2023. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.
