Interpreters and translators

๐Ÿค Save Career

Interpreters and translators play a vital role in the US economy, with 75K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $59,440, with projected growth of 2% through 2034 (Slower than average).

$59,440
Median Salary
2%
Growth Rate
90%
AI Risk
Bachelor's Degree
Education

๐Ÿ’ฐ Salary Range

$35,664$59,440 median$95,104

๐Ÿ“ˆ Growth Outlook

โžก๏ธ Stable โ€” 2% projected growth

๐Ÿค– AI Automation Risk

Very High

This career faces substantial disruption from AI automation.

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AI Impact Deep Dive: Interpreters and translators

๐Ÿ”ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Interpreters and translators

AI Collaboration Score

16% โ€” Low

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

๐Ÿ”ฎ Future Outlook

The core work product is purely digital information (text and speech) in a domain where Large Language Models already demonstrate near-human proficiency. While high-stakes interpreting (legal, medical) and sign language still require human presence and nuanced judgment, the vast majority of translation and routine interpreting tasks are being rapidly automated or shifted to 'post-editing' roles, significantly reducing the total human labor required per unit of work.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

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A Day in the Life

As a interpreters and translator, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
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Career Outlook & Getting Started

Why It's Promising

With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $59,440, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.

How to Get Started

Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Who Is It For

Anyone interested in interpreters and translators who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

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Majors & Top Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Interpreters and translators make in 2026?โ–ผ

The median salary for a Interpreters and translators is $59,440 per year. Entry-level positions start around $35,664, while experienced professionals can earn up to $95,104 depending on location, specialization, and industry.

How do I become a Interpreters and translators?โ–ผ

Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is bachelor's degree.

What degree do you need to be a Interpreters and translators?โ–ผ

Most Interpreters and translators positions require bachelor's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.

What AP courses should I take to become a Interpreters and translators?โ–ผ

Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Interpreters and translators. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.

What does a Interpreters and translators do on a daily basis?โ–ผ

As a interpreters and translator, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

Is Interpreters and translators a good career in 2026?โ–ผ

With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $59,440, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 2%, which is declining. The median salary of $59,440 also positions it competitively in the job market.

Will AI replace Interpreters and translatorss?โ–ผ

Interpreters and translators has an AI automation risk score of 90/100 (Very High). This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.

What kind of person makes a good Interpreters and translators?โ–ผ

Anyone interested in interpreters and translators who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.

Is Interpreters and translators Right for You?

Take our career quiz to see how Interpreters and translators matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.

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