Congratulations! You’ve earned your NAATI credential and are now ready to embark on your journey as a professional interpreter and/or translator in Australia or New Zealand.
But what comes next? This guide will walk you through the next steps to finding job opportunities, building your career, and making the most of your new qualification.
Employment Opportunities for NAATI-credentialed Interpreters and Translators
As a NAATI-credentialed Interpreter or Translator, there are many career possibilities. You can work with a Language Services Provider (LSP), operate as a sole trader, take on freelance projects—or even combine all three. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility to set your own hours, choose your workload, and build a career that fits your lifestyle while making a meaningful impact through language.
Many interpreters and translators begin their careers by working with LSPs, which provide language services to government agencies, businesses, and community organisations.
To apply for roles with an LSP, you will typically need to provide the following documents:
- NAATI Credential(s) (Certified Translator, Certified Interpreter, Recognised Practising Interpreter, Recognised Practising Translator, etc.)
- Australian Business Number (ABN) or New Zealand equivalent (some LSPs offer employment, while others engage interpreters/translators as contractors)
- Tax File Number (TFN)
- Proof of Right to Work in Australia or New Zealand (e.g., visa, citizenship certificate)
- Working with Children Check (if working in schools or related fields)
- National Police Check
Since some of these documents can take time to obtain, it is best to have them ready before applying to LSPs.
Working as an In-house Interpreter and/or Translator
Many organisations also hire casual, part-time, or full-time in-house interpreters and/or translators. Examples include hospitals, LSPs, technology companies, law firms, and mining companies. Keep an eye on employment websites for these opportunities.
Working as a Sole Trader
In addition to working with LSPs, you can also choose to work as a sole trader to manage your own business and clients. Here are some recommendations for setting yourself up:
- Opt-in to be visible on the NAATI Directory (this can be done by updating your profile and preferences on your myNAATI account) – This helps clients and agencies find you easily.
- Join Professional Associations – Become a member of AUSIT (Australia) or NZSTI (New Zealand) to access networking opportunities and be listed in their directories.
- Invest in Marketing – Create a professional website, order business cards, and develop a strong online presence.
- Register with Consulates and Embassies – Many embassies and consulates require certified translators and interpreters for official documents.
Freelance opportunities for translators
Translators looking for additional work can explore freelance platforms such as:
- Proz.com
- TranslatorsCafe
- Upwork
- Fiverr
Having a strong online profile with client testimonials and a portfolio of past work can help secure projects.
Job Search and Professional Branding
- Keep Your CV Updated – Highlight relevant qualifications, experience, and specialisation.
- Create Profiles on Job Portals – Register on platforms such as Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn. Set up job alerts with keywords to receive notifications about new opportunities.
- Maintain a Professional LinkedIn Profile – Connect with industry professionals, share insights, and stay informed about industry trends.
- Use a Professional Email Address – Consider creating an email dedicated to professional use and setting up a signature that includes:
- NAATI credential logo and Certified Practitioner Number (CPN)
- AUSIT or NZSTI membership logos
Best Practices for New Practitioners
- Follow the AUSIT/NZSTI Code of Ethics – Ethical practice is essential in building trust with clients and employers.
- Be Professional and Look Professional – First impressions matter, especially in face-to-face interpreting assignments, and your conduct reflects not only on you personally but on the profession as a whole.
- Manage Your Diary Well – Avoid overbooking yourself and maintain a balance between work and rest.
- Commit to Continuous Professional Development (PD) – Stay updated with industry trends and skills by attending workshops, webinars, and conferences.
- Keep Your Recertification Logbook Up to Date – Avoid last-minute stress by documenting your CPD activities regularly.
