The following responsibilities are common for Chinese Interpreters:

• Compiles terminology and information used for translations, including technical terms, especially legal and medical terms
• Discusses translation requirements with clients, like fees charged and services expected along with contract agreements
•  Read, proofread, edit and revise as needed any written materials such as, legal documents, medical records, news reports or scientific journals, and rewrite the material into the specified language
• Adapt translations to students if required and collaborate with other educators if necessary for your occupation
• Listen to the speakers statements and translate them accordingly, using electronic systems when necessary

A Day In The Life

Chinese interpreters assist in communication by converting messages, speech and text from Mandarin Chinese into a different language or visa versa.  Although, most people do both, interpreters and translators are two different occupations.  Translators work with the written language while interpreters work with spoken language.

Therefore, Chinese interpreters convert the Mandarin Chinese language into another. The goal of the interpreter is to have other people hear the interpretation as if it were the original.  These individuals must be fluent in Mandarin Chinese and the other language of interpretation to be able to flawlessly communicate between both parties that do not share a common language.

There are three common types of interpreting: simultaneous, consecutive, and whispered.  Simultaneous do not begin to interpret until the general meaning of the sentence is completely understood.  This style requires that an interpreter to listen and speak at the same time.  Basically, anticipating what the clients next word is going to be.  The consecutive style of interpreting begins only after the speaker has said a group of words or a complete sentence.  They will take notes during this style of interpreting.  It is a large part of how this style of interpretation works.  And in the whispered style if interpreting, they sit very close to the client and provides a simultaneous interpretation in a hushed or quiet voice.

Typical Work Schedule

When interpreters are busy with jobs, it will be a full-time employment.  Unfortunately, this position may have extended periods of limited work and may require irregular hours as well.

Projected Job Growth

Due to the strengthened ties between the United Stated and China, the career field of Chinese translation is expected to grow exponentially over the next few years.

Typical Employers

A Chinese Interpreter would typically be self-employed or work in schools, hospitals, courtrooms or conference centers.  While other can work for government agencies like the FBI or citizenship and deportation agencies.