Audiovisual Translator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of multimedia, the focus on audiovisual translators has never been stronger.

As digital content continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can translate, adapt, and ensure the cultural accuracy of our multimedia content grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from an audiovisual translator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of audiovisual translation,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable audiovisual translator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Audiovisual Translator Duties and Responsibilities

Audiovisual Translators use linguistic skills and cultural awareness to adapt content from one language to another, while ensuring that the meaning, context and style are maintained.

They specifically work with audio and visual materials such as films, television shows, video games, and other multimedia content.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Translating and adapting dialogue, text, and other elements in audiovisual content from one language to another
• Adjusting translations to fit into time constraints while ensuring that the original meaning is preserved
• Collaborating with voice actors, directors, and sound engineers to ensure high-quality localized content
• Using software tools to synchronize translations with the visual and auditory content
• Translating and adapting cultural references, idioms, and slang to ensure content is culturally appropriate and understandable for the target audience
• Proofreading and editing translations to ensure accuracy and consistency
• Researching specific industry terminology and colloquial language to ensure accurate translations
• Collaborating with other translators and revisers to ensure the overall quality of the translated content

 

Audiovisual Translator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a talented audiovisual translator to convert audio and video content from one language to another.

The Audiovisual Translator’s responsibilities include transcribing and translating multimedia content, maintaining the tone and intent of the original material, and ensuring the translated content aligns with cultural and linguistic nuances.

Candidates should have a strong understanding of translation principles, excellent written and verbal communication skills in various languages, and a keen interest in multimedia content.

 

Responsibilities

• Transcribing and translating multimedia content into different languages
• Maintaining the original tone, intent, and context of the material
• Ensuring translated content aligns with cultural and linguistic nuances
• Proofreading translated texts for grammar, spelling and punctuation accuracy
• Collaborating with multimedia producers and directors to understand the desired outcome of the translation
• Adhering to industry quality standards and project specifications
• Utilizing software tools to streamline the translation process
• Staying current with new trends and techniques in the translation industry

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an audiovisual translator or similar role
• Strong command of at least two languages (source and target)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Familiarity with translation software tools
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work under strict deadlines
• Strong knowledge of cultural and linguistic nuances
• Bachelor’s degree in Translation, Linguistics, or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Audiovisual Translator
• Work Environment: This role is mostly remote with occasional office meetings. Travel may be required for specific projects.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Translation Team Lead or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and samples of your translation work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Audiovisual Translator Do?

Audiovisual Translators are specialized professionals who work across various industries such as film, television, gaming, and online media.

They can work for translation agencies, production companies, or as freelancers.

Their primary role is to translate audio and video content from one language into another.

This could involve the translation of scripts for dubbing, the creation of subtitles for videos, or the translation of dialogue in video games.

They work closely with directors, producers, scriptwriters, and other creative professionals to ensure the accuracy and cultural appropriateness of the translations.

They also need to ensure that the translated content fits the original timing and pacing of the video.

Audiovisual Translators may also be responsible for creating captions for the hearing impaired, translating song lyrics within a video, or providing descriptive narration for visually impaired viewers.

Their work requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as a keen sense of cultural nuances, technical terminology, and the emotional tone of the original content.

They must also have a strong command of specialized translation software and technologies.

 

Audiovisual Translator Qualifications and Skills

Audiovisual Translators should possess a unique combination of linguistic skills, industry knowledge, and technical abilities to effectively convert spoken language in multimedia content into another language, including:

• Excellent command of at least two languages (source and target languages), with a deep understanding of the cultural nuances and stylistic differences.
• Expertise in translation and subtitling software to ensure precise timing and placement of translated text.
• Exceptional listening and comprehension skills to accurately interpret the spoken content of the source material.
• Strong writing skills to effectively convey the original meaning, tone and context in the translated version.
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate translation of complex terms and phrases, maintaining the integrity of the original content.
• Time management skills to handle multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong research skills to understand technical terms, industry-specific language, and cultural references.
• Technological savvy to work with various digital formats and platforms, including films, television programs, online videos, and other multimedia content.
• Collaborative skills to work effectively with producers, directors, and other media professionals to ensure the quality of the final product.

 

Audiovisual Translator Experience Requirements

Entry-level Audiovisual Translators often have 1 to 2 years of experience, which may include an internship, part-time job, or relevant academic coursework in translation, languages, or media studies.

Some may have also gained experience through freelance work or by participating in translation projects during their studies.

Candidates with a background in film, television, or digital media production may have an advantage, as they are familiar with industry-specific terminology and practices.

Additionally, knowledge in using software tools specific to subtitling, dubbing, and closed captioning is highly valuable.

Audiovisual Translators with more than 3 years of experience typically have developed their translation and language skills through a variety of projects across different genres and formats, such as movies, documentaries, TV shows, and web content.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have some project or team management experience in their background.

They could have led the translation of a large series or film project, or managed a team of translators.

Such candidates are often ready for senior or managerial roles in the field of audiovisual translation.

Additionally, professional certification from recognized translation and interpreting bodies can also boost the experience profile of an Audiovisual Translator.

 

Audiovisual Translator Education and Training Requirements

Audiovisual Translators typically have a bachelor’s degree in translation studies, linguistics, foreign languages, or another related field.

They must be proficient in at least two languages, including the source language and the target language.

The source language is usually English, but it can vary depending on the requirements of the job.

In addition to language proficiency, audiovisual translators need to have a firm grasp of computer software.

They often work with subtitling tools, translation memory software, and other relevant technologies to perform their tasks more efficiently.

Some positions, especially those that require specialized knowledge such as legal or medical translation, may require Audiovisual Translators to have a master’s degree or a postgraduate diploma in translation studies.

Some translators choose to earn certification from professional organizations, such as the American Translators Association or the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators.

This certification can help indicate their proficiency and dedication to the field.

Additionally, experience in the media industry can be beneficial, as audiovisual translation often involves working with movies, TV shows, video games, and online content.

Ongoing education is necessary to keep up with changes in language use, cultural trends, and technical tools.

 

Audiovisual Translator Salary Expectations

An Audiovisual Translator can expect to earn an average salary of $51,830 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary depending on factors such as level of experience, specific skills, location, and the company that they work for.

 

Audiovisual Translator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Audiovisual Translator need?

An Audiovisual Translator should have excellent command of at least two languages including their native language, strong writing skills, cultural understanding, and the ability to adapt language to the desired audience.

Additionally, they should have technical knowledge about software used for subtitle creation, dubbing and voice-over.

Attention to detail, time management skills, and the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines are also important.

 

Do Audiovisual Translators need a degree?

Audiovisual Translators typically need a bachelor’s degree in translation, linguistics, or a related field.

Some roles may also require a master’s degree in audiovisual translation or a related specialization.

However, relevant experience and proven language proficiency can also be valuable.

 

What should you look for in an Audiovisual Translator resume?

When reviewing an Audiovisual Translator resume, check for their language proficiency, educational background in translation or a related field, and experience with different types of audiovisual content.

Familiarity with translation software and tools is crucial.

Look for evidence of their ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, and any specialized knowledge relevant to your content, such as medical or legal terminology.

 

What qualities make a good Audiovisual Translator?

A good Audiovisual Translator is highly attentive to detail and has a deep understanding of both the source and target cultures.

They should have excellent writing skills and the ability to convey the tone, emotion, and context of the original content in the translation.

Creativity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under tight schedules are also important qualities for this role.

 

Is it difficult to hire Audiovisual Translators?

Hiring Audiovisual Translators can be challenging due to the specific set of skills required for the job.

Finding a candidate who is proficient in the necessary languages, has the required technical skills, and understands the cultural nuances can be time-consuming.

Offering competitive salaries, continuous learning opportunities, and a flexible work environment can make the position more attractive to potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the fascinating world of being an audiovisual translator.

And guess what?

It’s not just about translating words.

It’s about transcending language barriers to craft engaging multimedia content for global audiences.

With our handy audiovisual translator job description template and real-world examples, you’re perfectly equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go beyond the surface with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously-crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every word translated is a bridge to a wider audience.

Let’s make the world a smaller place. Together.

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