Translation involves the skill of working with written language, whereas interpretation involves working with spoken communication. A translator renders written materials in one language into written form in another language. Translators generally work either in-house for a business, translation agency, or other institution, or as freelancers. Most are freelancers who either find their own clients or translate for firms or translation bureaus, and who are paid depending on the length and difficulty of a translation. Fees may also reflect supply and demand of a particular language or subject.
Salaried translators are part of the in-house staff of an agency, firm, or institution.
For the vast majority of this type of translator, expertise in a specific subject matter, such as chemistry or economics, is necessary. They may need to be able to translate from several languages. Translator positions in the United States Government, for example, require the ability to translate from at least two languages, and World Bank translators must be able to translate from three. The number of full-time positions is limited. Translators must be capable of expressing, in the target language, ideas that someone else has formulated in the source language.