Language Interpreter

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: Interpreters (5125.3) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters (F025) 
• 2011 NOC: Translators, terminologists and interpreters (5125) 

Language interpreters may translate during pauses in a monologue (consecutive interpretation) or interpret immediately as words are spoken at conferences and meetings (simultaneous interpretation via headphones). Simultaneous interpreters generally work in teams, each person working for 20-minute periods during a session.

In addition to translating spoken words, interpreters may provide background cultural information or identify and resolve conflicts related to the meaning of words, concepts, practices or behaviour.

For information regarding sign language interpreters, please see the Sign Language Interpreter occupational profile.

Language interpreters often work evenings and weekends to provide services at conferences and meetings.

Language interpreters need the following characteristics:

• able to articulate and respond quickly
• inquisitive and interested in researching information 
• meticulous
• creative and adaptable
• good interpersonal skills.

They should enjoy variety, work that requires precision and working with people.

Few interpreters, other than those in government, are employed full time or part time. Language interpreters generally work on a freelance basis:

• at meetings and conferences
• in courts of law or legal hearings
• during visits by foreign dignitaries
• during medical or psychological assessments
• accompanying trade delegations
• for government translation bureaus.

Advancement generally takes the form of building a more extensive client base.

Language interpreters are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5125: Translators, terminologists and interpreters. In Alberta, 78% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PDF)
• Educational Services (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Association of Translators and Interpreters of Alberta (ATIA) website: www.atia.ab.ca

Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC) website: www.cttic.org

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.