How do you become a UN interpreter?

A first-level degree from a university or institution of equivalent status is required for all United Nations interpreters. Many interpreters also have a degree from an accredited school of interpretation. Candidates must be able to interpret from one to two official languages into their main language.

Does the UN hire translators?

(In instances where other languages are needed, the UN will hire freelance interpreters or country delegations will bring in their own translators.) UN interpreters, most typically, translate from their acquired languages into their native tongue.

How many languages do you need to know to be a UN interpreter?

Three Languages
UN Interpreters Speak at Least Three Languages An interpreter should be able to provide the equivalent of almost any word or expression a delegate says in two different languages from his or her mother tongue.

Are Russian interpreters in demand?

Employment growth reflects increasing globalization and a more diverse U.S. population, which is expected to require more interpreters and translators. Demand will likely remain strong for translators of frequently translated languages, such as French, German, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.

How much money does a UN interpreter make?

According to Glassdoor, as of April 2022, UN interpreters earned around ​$69,000​ to ​$75,000​ on average per year, working in teams of two, with each interpreter switching with the other every 20 minutes. This salary may be misleading, however, since many interpreters are not hired for full-time positions.

How much money does a UN translator make?

The typical United Nations Translator salary is $96,260. Translator salaries at United Nations can range from $60,086 – $114,866. This estimate is based upon 3 United Nations Translator salary report(s) provided by employees or estimated based upon statistical methods.

How many interpreters work at the UN?

It’s also why the United Nations allows only one intermediary language in the relay system—any more and there’s too much room for error. The United Nations hires about 120 interpreters—not to be confused with translators, who translate text—who are considered the best in their profession.

Can you be an interpreter without a degree?

The long answer is still no, but a degree helps. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most entry-level positions as a translator or interpreter look for a bachelor’s degree. Be it in translation, linguistics, or a relevant specialization, a degree will give you an advantage with employers.

Do interpreters make more than translators?

On average, interpreters make a roughly comparable wage to translators (the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics actually lumps them together) with an average salary also around $50,000/year but with a slightly different floor and ceiling of $35k to $65k a year.

Do you need a degree to become an interpreter?

Qualifications and accreditation are not mandatory for interpreters, however, there are courses you can take that will benefit your career in the industry. For conference and consecutive interpreting, a degree in languages or a related field, and/or a postgraduate degree in interpreting are highly desirable.

Is a translator a good career?

Jobs in the translation industry made it to the top of the list of emerging careers in the US for 2018. Thanks to the high number of online jobs available and the market’s growth, working as interpreter or translator seems to be one of the best jobs for new graduates this year.