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The differences between translators and transcribers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a translator has an average salary of $44,278, which is higher than the $43,541 average annual salary of a transcriber.
The top three skills for a translator include target language, translation services and vice versa. The most important skills for a transcriber are transcription, WPM, and proofreading.
A translator is an expert of one or multiple languages, responsible for transcribing communication between parties for easy comprehension. Translators often work with written documents, relaying the core context and original message from the source. They should also be able to translate jargon, slang, cultural expressions, and related technical terms in an understandable format, depending on the level of the target audience. A translator must be highly fluent with the language to render ideas accurately, as well as have excellent time-management skills to meet project deadlines.
A transcriber is primarily responsible for listening to audio and video recordings to produce written versions, ensuring accuracy in every word. Most transcribers work as freelancers, while others work full-time at different industries. They use a particular software when transcribing, while others have the task of populating company databases. Aside from transcribing, they may also perform other clerical duties such as preparing documents and producing reports. Furthermore, as a transcriber, it is essential to keep an eye out for any errors or inconsistencies, performing corrective measures promptly and efficiently.
Translators and transcribers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Translator | Transcriber | |
| Average Salary | $44,278 | $43,541 |
| Salary Range | Between $27,000 And $70,000 | Between $25,000 And $75,000 |
| Highest Paying City | Washington, DC | New York, NY |
| Highest Paying State | New York | Alaska |
| Best Paying Company | Apple | University of Nevada, Reno |
| Best Paying Industry | Technology | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a translator and a transcriber in terms of educational background:
| Translator | Transcriber | |
| Most Common Degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 61% |
| Most Common Major | English | English |
| Most Common College | Harvard University | - |
Here are the differences between translators' and transcribers' demographics:
| Translator | Transcriber | |
| Average Age | 42 | 41 |
| Gender Ratio | Male, 38.4% Female, 61.6% | Male, 28.3% Female, 71.7% |
| Race Ratio | Black or African American, 6.1% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 32.0% Asian, 18.4% White, 37.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | Black or African American, 6.8% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Asian, 14.5% White, 65.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 15% | 9% |