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) 
• 2016 NOC: Translators, terminologists and interpreters (5125) 

Language interpreters translate one language to another. In consecutive interpretation, they provide a translation when a speaker pauses. In simultaneous interpretation, they interpret the words immediately as they are spoken.

Simultaneous interpreters work in teams. Each person works for 20-minute periods during conferences and meetings. They provide services at international summits, professional seminars and other events where bilingual or multilingual communication is crucial. Ideally, language interpreters should have advance access to the text they will interpret to help them prepare for their assignments beforehand.

In addition to translating spoken words, interpreters may provide background cultural information. They may also 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 follow regular office hours, but they sometimes work evenings and weekends.

Telephone service is becoming more popular. Although it is convenient, it also adds challenges. For example, body language clues are not visible and therefore cannot be interpreted.

Language interpreters need:

• Creativity and adaptability
• An aptitude for languages
• Attention to detail
• Interpersonal and active listening skills
• The ability to articulate and respond quickly
• The ability to adopt the delivery, tone and convictions of various speakers
• Good short-term memory
• Curiosity and an interest in researching information

They should enjoy:

• Variety
• Precision
• Working with people

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:

• 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.

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 are employed by international or national institutions, governments, or large companies.

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 (pdf) 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 call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.