The translation industry has undergone a significant transformation with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI). AI-powered translation tools, including translation memories and speech recognition systems, have revolutionized how translations are conducted. These tools have made it easier to access languages ​​with limited resources and have significantly increased the volume of text that can be translated accurately, naturally, and consistently.​

However, AI also presents challenges as it still needs to be capable of understanding the context and cultural nuances required for accurate translation. There are also ethical considerations surrounding the handling of confidential or sensitive data. 

While translation continues to evolve alongside new technologies, human expertise and creativity remain essential in ensuring precise, culturally appropriate, and engaging translations. The emergence of new translation roles underscores the need for a combination of human and machine labor to achieve high-quality outputs.

New opportunities as a translator

Although entrepreneurs and technology experts expressed their fears about the negative consequences that AI could have on humanity, especially after the exponential growth of  Chat GPT , the reality is that in the field of translation, it has created new job opportunities. It is now common for agencies to consult professionals, whom they consider an ally, to learn about their experience working with these new technologies.​

Machine Translation Post-Editor​

Machine translation systems use sophisticated algorithms and neural networks to translate texts automatically but often produce imperfect results. Machine translation post-editors play a crucial role in reviewing and editing machine-translated content to ensure accuracy, fluency, and adherence to industry-specific terminology or client preferences.

Post-editors are responsible for maintaining the meaning and tone of the original text while enhancing readability and naturalness. This job combines linguistic skills with the ability to understand and work with AI systems effectively.​

Data Specialist and AI Trainer​

AI-based translation systems heavily rely on large volumes of multilingual data to improve their performance and accuracy. Data specialists and AI trainers are instrumental in collecting and managing these datasets for effective AI model training.

Data specialists gather, clean, and organize language-specific data from various sources, ensuring the availability of high-quality training materials for AI systems. They collaborate with linguistic experts to develop glossaries, style guides, and translation memories, which contribute to the overall comprehension and accuracy of the system.

AI trainers, meanwhile, work closely with development teams to fine-tune and optimize AI models. They analyze and evaluate the system's generated results, identify areas for improvement, and update the training data accordingly. This iterative process of training and refining AI models leads to continuous improvement in translation quality.​

Creative Translator and Localization Specialist​

AI-based translation systems often struggle with creative content and cultural nuances. This has given rise to new translation roles that involve adapting and localizing translations for specific target markets.

Creative translators and localization specialists collaborate with content creators, marketsers, and companies to accurately convey the original message, considering cultural sensitivities, idiomatic expressions, and local preferences. Their expertise ensures that the translated content resonates with the target audience and achieves the desired impact effectively.

In conclusion, while AI has brought significant advancements to the translation industry, human translators and language experts remain irreplaceable. The collaboration between humans and AI technologies opens up new avenues for translation professionals, offering exciting job opportunities that capitalize on both strengths.