Translator

UCI Series Concepts

Class Specifications - B.15
Translator-Nontechnical (6693)
Translator-Technical (6694)

May, 1976

SERIES CONCEPT

Translators translate into English from one or more foreign languages, or 
translate from English into one or more foreign languages material dealing 
with both technical and non-technical subjects; and perform other related 
duties as required.

CLASS CONCEPTS

Translator-Nontechnical

Under general supervision, incumbents translate into English from another 
language, or translate from English into one or more foreign languages 
nontechnical, fiscal, or scientific articles dealing with relatively 
uncomplicated, nontechnical subjects; translate into English from another 
language materials that are routine or whose meanings are easily determined 
and understood; translate material for which only a general idea of the 
contents need be conveyed; prepare verbatim translations; prepare idiomatic 
translations of relatively simple, nontechnical material; and abstract or 
summarize material written in a foreign language for use on a specific
project.

Incumbents are called upon to use native knowledge of one or more foreign 
languages, and subject-matter knowledge sufficient to translate materials for 
the layperson. Native knowledge means that the expression of thought is 
structurally, grammatically, and idiomatically correct, and uses the range of 
vocabulary common to persons who have received their educations through the 
high school level in a country of the language. Subject-matter knowledge can 
normally be gained through on-the-job reading and research without technical 
training.

Translator-Technical

Under general supervision, incumbents translate into English from another 
language technical or scientific articles, theses, books, etc.; translate from
English into another language materials that require technical training for
comprehension; study reference materials to determine the most accurate shades
of vocabulary meanings; screen or extract technical material in a foreign
language for use on a specific project; abstract or summarize materials 
written in foreign languages for use on a specific scientific or technical 
project; translate technical material from one foreign language into another 
foreign language; make difficult translations of poetry involving technical 
knowledge of alliteration, meter, onomatopoeia, etc.; and may review the 
work of other translators for accuracy, readability, content or style.

The class of Translator-Technical is distinguished from the class of 
Translator-Nontechnical in the degree of knowledge and facility required, not 
only in the foreign languages but also with the subject matter involved. To 
make an intelligible translation that reflects the original wording and 
meaning of technical material, a native knowledge of the language is required 
plus knowledge of the vocabulary peculiar to the subject matter area. The 
expressions, terms, and symbols used are not usually found in the normal 
information media and reference materials, such as dictionaries, glossaries, 
etc.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Translator-Nontechnical

Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma, a comprehensive 
knowledge of English, and a native knowledge of the required foreign language; 
or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and 
abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to 
the position.

Translator-Technical

Three years of college, with specialization in the required subject matter 
area and a native knowledge of the required foreign language; or an equivalent 
combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities 
essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the 
position.