Job outlooks for Translators, terminologists and interpreters

Discover the employment prospects for your dream job across Canada, or compare different occupations.

Occupation

translator (51114)

Location

All regions across Canada

Did you know? You can visit the Open Government Portal to search through and download our Employment Outlooks data all in one place. There, you will find current and previous versions of our 3-Year Employment Outlooks reports for the periods of 2013-2015 to 2025-2027. View the dataset on the Open Government Portal.

These outlooks were updated on December 10, 2025.

Legend

0 out of 5 stars
Undetermined
1 out of 5 stars
Very limited
2 out of 5 stars
Limited
3 out of 5 stars
Moderate
4 out of 5 stars
Good
5 out of 5 stars
Very good
  • Newfoundland and LabradorUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    Regional outlooks

  • Prince Edward IslandUndetermined

    An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

  • Nova ScotiaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Nova Scotia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Nova Scotia:

    • Approximately 200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 56%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 14%
      • Religious, grant-making, civic, and professional and similar organizations (NAICS 813): 10%
      • Other schools and instruction (NAICS 6115-6117): 8%
      • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 7%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 67% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 33% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 48% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 52% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 56% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 31% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 69% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 7% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 17% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 33% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 38% compared to 10% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Halifax Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Halifax region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Halifax region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 87%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 13%

  • New BrunswickModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in New Brunswick for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • As New Brunswick remains the only constitutionally bilingual province (French and English) in Canada, the demand for translators, terminologists and interpreters is expected to remain positive over the forecast period. 
    • With respect to interpreters, opportunities will likely to be more readily available to those who have acquired some experience job shadowing and/or who own their equipment. There also exists opportunities for those who can offer services that break from convention, to reduce costs. For instance, by operating without an interpreter booth, one can significantly reduce overhead. Those able to apply newer digital technological solutions, such as digital receivers and video conferencing services, may also benefit from more opportunities. 
    • Formal education is generally not a necessity, though employers may prefer candidates with certification or with some college or university education in related fields. Membership from a provincial association may be required. 
    • As government institutions, industry organizations and unions generate much of the demand for these services, opportunities are more likely to be available in and around New Brunswick's larger urban centres of Fredericton, Moncton and Saint John, where most of these entities' headquarters are located.
    • Artificial intelligence and other technologies may change some of the tasks for translators, terminologists and interpreters going forward.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in New Brunswick:

    • Approximately 250 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 71%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 11%
      • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 7%
      • Arts, entertainment and recreation (NAICS 71): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 79% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 21% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 60% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 40% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 33% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 26% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 74% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 5% compared to 30% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 12% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 60% compared to 16% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 17% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Fredericton–Oromocto Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Fredericton - Oromocto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Fredericton - Oromocto region:

      • Approximately 40 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 55%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 45%

    • Moncton–Richibucto Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Moncton - Richibucto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Moncton - Richibucto region:

      • Approximately 170 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): more than 95%

    • Saint John–St. Stephen Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Saint John - St. Stephen region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Saint John - St. Stephen region:

      • Approximately 20 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): more than 95%

  • QuebecModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Quebec for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Quebec:

    • Approximately 11,650 people work in this occupation.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 59%
      • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 8%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 75% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 25% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 62% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 38% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 44 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 46% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 28% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 72% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 7% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 53% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 31% compared to 11% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Bas-Saint-Laurent Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region:

      • Approximately 100 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 88%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 12%

    • Capitale-Nationale Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Capitale-Nationale region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Capitale-Nationale region:

      • Approximately 830 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 79%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 7%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 5%

    • Chaudière-Appalaches Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Chaudière - Appalaches region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Chaudière - Appalaches region:

      • Approximately 180 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 72%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 8%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 7%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 7%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 6%

    • Côte-Nord Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Approximately 120 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 63%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 21%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 8%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 8%

    • Estrie Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Estrie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Estrie region:

      • Approximately 220 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 92%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 8%

    • Lanaudière Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Lanaudière region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Lanaudière region:

      • Approximately 210 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 95%

    • Laurentides Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Laurentides region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Laurentides region:

      • Approximately 400 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 85%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 6%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 6%

    • Laval Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region, for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region,:

      • Approximately 5,530 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Mauricie Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Mauricie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Mauricie region:

      • Approximately 180 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 88%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 12%

    • Montréal Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the census metropolitan area of Montréal:

      • Approximately 5,530 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Montérégie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Montérégie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Montérégie region:

      • Approximately 1,230 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 73%
        • Finance, insurance and Real estate and rental and leasing (NAICS 52-53): 7%

    • Nord-du-Québec Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are several unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 63%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 21%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 8%
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 8%

    • Outaouais Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Outaouais region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Outaouais region:

      • Approximately 1,010 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 46%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 45%

    • Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region:

      • Approximately 50 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 57%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 24%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 18%

  • OntarioModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Ontario for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
    • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    What Types of Employers Are Out There?

    • Translation and interpretation services
    • Federal government

    What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?

    • Requirement for all federal institutions to provide services and communication in English and French
    • Significant demand to meet the needs of newcomers and to support the province's large global business base
    • Availability of advanced translation software may moderate the demand for some translation services over the long term

    What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?

    • Only certified members of the Association of Translators and Interpreters of Ontario (ATIO) can use the designation “Certified Translator”

    What Other Information Will I Find Helpful?

    • Self-employment and freelance work through translation and interpretation agencies are common in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Ontario:

    • Approximately 5,900 people work in this occupation.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 57%
      • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 8%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 55% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 45% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 53% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 47% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 54% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 28% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 72% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 9% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 12% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 42% compared to 24% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 32% compared to 13% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Hamilton–Niagara Peninsula Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 320 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 82%

    • Kingston–Pembroke Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Kingston - Pembroke region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Kingston - Pembroke region:

      • Approximately 80 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): more than 95%

    • Kitchener–Waterloo–Barrie Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be Limited for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region:

      • Approximately 310 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 63%
        • Information, cultural, arts, entertainment and recreation services (NAICS 51, 71): 7%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%
        • Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 6%

    • London Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the London region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the London region:

      • Approximately 180 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 78%
        • Other transportation equipment manufacturing (NAICS 3364-3369): 7%
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 7%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 5%

    • Ottawa Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Ottawa region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Ottawa region:

      • Approximately 1,330 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 59%
        • Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 23%

    • Toronto Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Toronto region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Toronto region:

      • Approximately 3,420 people work in this occupation.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 72%

    • Windsor-Sarnia Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Windsor - Sarnia region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Windsor - Sarnia region:

      • Approximately 110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 84%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 16%

  • ManitobaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Manitoba for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Manitoba:

    • Approximately 400 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 47%
      • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 26%
      • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 9%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 64% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 36% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 62% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 38% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 16% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 28% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 72% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 9% compared to 31% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 19% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 42% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 24% compared to 8% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • North Region Undetermined

      An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    • Winnipeg Region Good

      The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Winnipeg region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Winnipeg region:

      • Approximately 370 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 61%
        • Ambulatory health care services and hospitals (NAICS 621-622): 15%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 8%
        • Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 6%

  • SaskatchewanModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Saskatchewan for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.
    • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Saskatchewan:

    • Approximately 150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 31%
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 27%
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 22%
      • Religious, grant-making, civic, and professional and similar organizations (NAICS 813): 12%
      • Monetary Authorities - central bank and securities, commodity contracts and other intermediation and related activities (NAICS 521, 522, 523): 8%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 68% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 32% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 44% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 56% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 36 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 21% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 18% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 82% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 23% compared to 33% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 6% compared to 15% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 14% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 34% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 20% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

  • AlbertaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Alberta for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Alberta:

    • Approximately 650 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 56%
      • Management and administrative services (NAICS 55, 56): 10%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 10%
      • Other schools and instruction (NAICS 6115-6117): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 44% compared to 80% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 56% compared to 20% for all occupations
    • 39% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 61% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 34 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 55% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 31% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 69% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 14% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 22% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 34% compared to 21% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 25% compared to 9% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Calgary Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Calgary region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Calgary region:

      • Approximately 380 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 75%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 11%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • Edmonton Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Edmonton region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Edmonton region:

      • Approximately 210 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 79%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 17%

  • British ColumbiaModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in British Columbia for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in British Columbia:

    • Approximately 1,650 people work in this occupation.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Other professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 5414, 5416-5419): 64%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 48% compared to 78% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 52% compared to 22% for all occupations
    • 43% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 56% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 38 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 61% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 34% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 66% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 10% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 13% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 39% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 32% compared to 12% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Cariboo Region Undetermined

      An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    • Lower Mainland–Southwest Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region:

      • Approximately 1,360 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 79%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 8%

    • Nechako Region Undetermined

      An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

    • Vancouver Island and Coast Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in the Vancouver Island and Coast region for the 2025-2027 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in the Vancouver Island and Coast region:

      • Approximately 210 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Professional, scientific and technical services (NAICS 54): 79%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%
        • Management and Administrative Services (NAICS 55-56): 6%
        • Local, municipal, regional, aboriginal and other public administration (NAICS 913-919): 5%

  • Yukon TerritoryGood

    The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Yukon for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • The duties of this occupation may be impacted by the introduction of automation and digital transformation initiatives, such as generative artificial intelligence.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Yukon:

    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 50%
      • Other Commercial Services (NAICS 54-56, 81): 26%
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 18%
      • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 40% compared to 49% for all occupations
      • Women: 60% compared to 51% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: n/a
      • high school diploma or equivalent: n/a
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: n/a
      • bachelor's degree: n/a
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 40% compared to 11% for all occupations

  • Northwest TerritoriesGood

    The employment outlook will be Good for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Northwest Territories for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
    • Several positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • The duties of this occupation may be impacted by the introduction of automation and digital transformation initiatives, such as generative artificial intelligence.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Northwest Territories:

    • Approximately 50 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 50%
      • Other Commercial Services (NAICS 54-56, 81): 26%
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 18%
      • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%
    • 71% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 28% work only part of the year, compared to 71% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 44 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • 25% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of 7% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 38% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 63% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 20% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: n/a
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 20% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 30% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a

  • NunavutModerate

    The employment outlook will be Moderate for translators, terminologists and interpreters (NOC 51114) in Nunavut for the 2025-2027 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • The duties of this occupation may be impacted by the introduction of automation and digital transformation initiatives, such as generative artificial intelligence.

    Here are some key facts about translators, terminologists and interpreters in Nunavut:

    • Approximately 150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Translators, terminologists and interpreters mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 50%
      • Other Commercial Services (NAICS 54-56, 81): 26%
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 18%
      • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 92% compared to 87% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 8% compared to 13% for all occupations
    • 76% of translators, terminologists and interpreters work all year, while 24% work only part of the year, compared to 72% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 45 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • 17% of translators, terminologists and interpreters are self-employed compared to an average of less than 5% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 17% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 83% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 26% compared to 37% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 19% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 10% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 26% compared to 15% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 13% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 6% compared to 6% for all occupations

Related links

Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) - Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

Top of page

Page details

Date modified: