We know you are looking to hire translators. And we also know you have been Googling “best translators near me,” only to end up with a bunch of options that felt… well, let’s just say like a letdown wrapped in good SEO.
Either they weren’t specialized enough, their reviews made you nervous, or their prices had you clutching your wallet. And no, “Google Translate” isn’t going to work here either – sorry, not sorry.
Here’s the good news: we have pulled together the ultimate list of 17 best sites to hire top translators. And no, this isn’t some dull directory of “try this, try that.” This is your cheat sheet to finding talent that gets the job done – and done well.
In A Rush? Here Are The Top 5 Sites To Find A Remote Translator
- Genius: Best for finding rigorously vetted freelance translators with 80% cost savings and a focus on cultural fit and high-quality output.
- ProZ: Best for accessing a global community of certified freelance translators and agencies across various industries.
- Smartcat: Best for leveraging AI tools to quickly hire freelance translators for scalable and efficient projects.
- Gengo: Best for affordable and fast translations from freelance translators with expertise in multiple language pairs.
- Tomedes: Best for comprehensive translation services from industry-certified freelance translators with managed staffing.
17 Most Used Platforms To Hire Professional Translators
Here are the 17 best platforms to hire A+ translators for your next project
1. Genius

Time to set the record straight: “Cheaper overseas talent means lower quality?”
Not even close.
At Genius, we’ve placed over 500 A+ players with an impressive 97% success rate. How did we achieve this? Simple: we’re relentless in our vetting process, rejecting 249 candidates for every 1 we hire.
Our meticulous approach includes a technical assessment, culture screening, communication test, trial project, and reference checks. While most companies cut corners and skip steps 2 through 5, we know these are the critical filters that separate good hires from great ones. That’s why we succeed where others fall short.
- Type: Exclusive Global Talent Agency
- Pricing model: One-time fee, no monthly fees
- Talent expertise level: Mid-level, senior translators
- Engagement model: Full-time
- Year founded: 2019
- Revenue: $1M – $2M
- No. of employees: 25
Pros | Cons |
No monthly fees, ensuring cost-efficiency | Currently focused on talent from the Philippines and Latin America (expanding soon because of demand) |
An affordable way to hire high-quality talent with 80% savings | |
Ensures risk-free hiring with a 6-month talent guarantee |
Why we like it: Genius offers zero-risk hiring with no monthly fees and a 6-month guarantee. Plus, our candidates cost 80% less than U.S. equivalents without compromising quality.
2. ProZ

ProZ is an online community and marketplace of over 1.5 million language professionals, including translators, interpreters, and translation companies. You can connect with verified translators from its Certified PRO Network, where members undergo rigorous screening based on credentials, client feedback, and industry standards.
ProZ also offers customizable service agreements and dispute resolution systems for smooth and professional working relationships.
- Type: Freelance marketplace
- Pricing model: Per word or hourly rates
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, or Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time or full-time
- Year founded: 1999
- Revenue: $2.5M – $5M
- No. of employees: 1,000+
Pros | Cons |
Access to a large pool of professional translators and companies | Screening quality varies outside the Certified PRO Network |
Ensures vetted, high-quality translators | Premium features and access require membership fees |
Global reach for diverse language pairings and specialized expertise |
Why we like it: The firm’s Certified PRO Network guarantees access to skilled and vetted translators, while its user-friendly tools, like service agreement management, minimize risks and improve accountability.
3. Smartcat

Smartcat combines cutting-edge AI technology with a marketplace of over 500,000 language professionals to deliver high-quality translation services. Its AI-powered platform matches projects with the best linguists in just 5 minutes.
Smartcat’s streamlined payment system lets you pay all translators through a single invoice, backed by legally binding contracts and enterprise-grade compliance.
- Type: Cloud-based translation and localization platform
- Pricing model: Per word or per character rates
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time or Full-time
- Year founded: 2016
- Revenue: $50M – $100M
- No. of employees: 323
Pros | Cons |
AI-powered matching ensures quick job pickup | Heavy reliance on AI matching may not account for unique project requirements |
Offers flexible options, including no minimum order size and testing functionality | Advanced features might require a learning curve for new users |
Transparent and streamlined payment system |
Why we like it: With features like detailed dispute resolution, no minimum order size, and testing functionality, Smartcat ensures a flexible and secure experience tailored to your needs. Plus, its AI-driven selection reduces costs by 50-80% without compromising quality.
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4. Gengo

Gengo has a pool of over 21,000 certified translators worldwide. With 1 billion words translated and 70+ language pairs available, Gengo can handle projects of any size or complexity.
The platform’s advanced features like integrated API and built-in quality tools streamline the translation process and ensure consistency across all content. Gengo supports businesses with 24/7 coverage and its global network of translators spanning all major time zones handles over 5 million words weekly with ease.
- Type: Translation agency
- Pricing model: Per word rates start at $0.06/word
- Talent expertise level: Mid to Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time or full-time
- Year founded: 2008
- Revenue: $20M – $50M
- No. of employees: 966
Pros | Cons |
Global coverage across all major time zones | API integration may require technical knowledge for full use |
Intuitive platform with integrated API and quality tools streamlines workflows | Automated workflows may reduce opportunities for personalized translator interaction |
High customer satisfaction, reflecting consistent quality and reliability |
Why we like it: With a 97.6% customer satisfaction rate, Gengo offers peace of mind for businesses needing high-volume, high-quality translations delivered efficiently.
5. Tomedes

Tomedes is a globally recognized translation service provider trusted by over 95,000 business customers. Their 24/7 support, a 1-year satisfaction guarantee, and ISO 9001:2015 certification ensure reliable and high-quality translations.
With accreditation as an ATA Corporate Member, they meet the highest industry standards, delivering precise and culturally relevant translations.
- Type: Translation services company
- Pricing model: Hourly rates
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, or Senior translators
- Engagement model: Permanent or temporary
- Year founded: 2007
- Revenue: $2.5M – $5M
- No. of employees: 164
Pros | Cons |
Satisfaction guarantee provides peace of mind | Pricing is not upfront, which makes budgeting less predictable |
Accredited by ATA and ISO 9001:2015, ensuring high-quality standards | Limited transparency on the specific qualifications of individual translators |
Smooth onboarding process designed to maximize client retention and streamline operations |
Why we like it: Tomedes offers a smooth onboarding process to maximize client retention and streamline project management. Plus, with a 4.9 out of 5-star client review rating and certifications backing their expertise, Tomedes is a dependable choice for professional translation services that go beyond just accuracy.
6. Fairlingo

Fairlingo is an ISO-certified translation platform that combines quality, speed, and convenience for businesses of all sizes. With ISO 9001 and ISO 17100 certifications, Fairlingo ensures top-tier accuracy and professionalism, even for specialist translations.
The platform offers 24/7 access to experienced native translators and delivers 1,250 to 5,000 words per day in over 45 languages. You can receive an online quote within 30 seconds, making it easy to plan projects.
- Type: Translation agency
- Pricing model: Per word rates starting at $0.052/word
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Full-time or part-time
- Year founded: 2014
- Revenue: $2.5M – $5M
- No. of employees: 57
Pros | Cons |
ISO certifications ensure high-quality and professional standards | No dedicated project managers, leaving clients to manage workflows themselves |
Around-the-clock support | Heavy focus on speed may prioritize turnaround time over deeper cultural fit |
Transparent quoting system provides an online estimate within seconds |
Why we like it: Fairlingo provides free revisions within 14 days if the translation doesn’t meet your expectations.
7. TM Town

TM Town offers 160,000 professional translators worldwide, with 163 million translation units in its database. TM Town provides 2 unique search methods: directory search filters translators by criteria like native language and CAT tools, while Nakodo Search uses a sample of your text to find experts with relevant experience.
- Type: Freelance marketplace
- Pricing model: Membership fee starts at $5
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Full-time or part-time
- Year founded: 2014
- Revenue: $500,000 – $1M
- No. of employees: 13
Pros | Cons |
Nakodo Search matches translators based on prior work and specific text samples, ensuring precise expertise | No built-in quality assurance or dispute resolution system, leaving the responsibility to clients and translators |
Direct communication with translators builds collaboration and trust | Requires clients to manage their projects directly, which may not suit busy businesses |
Commission-free model provides direct, transparent pricing between clients and translators |
Why we like it: You can message translators directly, negotiate terms, and pay without TM Town taking any commission, ensuring a fair and transparent process for both parties.
8. Alpha Omega Translations

Alpha Omega Translations provides high-quality translation and localization services in over 220 languages. Alpha Omega offers on-demand managed staffing, providing project oversight and employee training to guarantee deliverables are met with precision.
- Type: Full-service translation agency
- Pricing model: Per word rates
- Talent expertise level: Senior translators
- Engagement model: Full-time
- Year founded: 1998
- Revenue: $100M – $500M
- No. of employees: 19
Pros | Cons |
Wide range of linguistic capabilities | Heavily reliant on CAT tools, which may not suit highly creative translation needs |
Native-speaking translators with specialized degrees provide high-quality, culturally accurate translations | Limited transparency on pricing until project details are discussed |
Advanced CAT tools for consistency and efficiency across projects |
Why we like it: With over 15 years of experience, their team of native-speaking translators, editors, and localizers combine linguistic expertise with technical precision, using advanced CAT tools like TRADOS and Wordfast to ensure consistency and efficiency.
???? Did You Know?
Freelancers make up 46.6% of the global workforce.
(Source)
9. TransPerfect

TransPerfect brings over 30 years of experience in connecting organizations with their audiences through professional translation and staffing services. With a global network of qualified professionals fluent in over 200 languages, TransPerfect ensures linguistic accuracy and cultural relevance.
Their 6-step staffing process rigorously vets over 5,000 candidates, matching businesses with the right translators based on specific needs.
- Type: Translation and language services company
- Pricing model: Hourly rates
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, or Senior translators
- Engagement model: Full-time or temporary
- Year founded: 1992
- Revenue: $1B+
- No. of employees: 11,000
Pros | Cons |
Comprehensive 6-step staffing process ensures highly vetted and skilled candidates | Complex onboarding and payroll setup might not suit businesses with simpler needs |
Wide-ranging linguistic and cultural accuracy | Limited transparency on pricing |
Flexible payroll options, you can use your own system or TransPerfect |
Why we like it: TransPerfect offers flexible options for payroll management and provides customized onboarding to ensure seamless integration of new hires into your workflow.
10. TranslatorsCafe

TranslatorsCafe links you with a global network of over 460,000 registered users, including more than 9,000 translation agencies. With a history of facilitating over 361,500 jobs for 27,300+ clients, the platform offers access to reliable translation and interpretation services.
- Type: Translation agency
- Pricing model: Per word rates range between $0.13-$0.25/word
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time, full-time, or freelance
- Year founded: 2015
- Revenue: $1M-$5M
- No. of employees: 19
Pros | Cons |
Platform supports both translation and interpretation services, offering flexibility | Limited quality assurance, leaving vetting and evaluation of translators to the client |
Provides access to linguistic news and resources, keeping you informed about trends | No built-in project management tools for handling larger or more complex assignments |
Proven track record of serving over 27,300 clients | Platform interface may feel outdated compared to newer competitors |
Why we like it: Beyond hiring, TranslatorsCafe provides a collaborative space where users can engage with other linguists, stay updated on industry news, and access valuable language resources, making it more than just a marketplace.
11. Fixnhour

Fixnhour is a versatile freelance platform connecting you to skilled professionals across 4,000+ skills in over 70 categories, including the best translators. The platform focuses on transparency and trust, offering real-time chatting for direct communication with freelancers and escrow-enabled payments to ensure satisfaction before funds are released.
- Type: Freelance marketplace
- Pricing model: One-time fee for projects or hourly rates
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, or Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time
- Year founded: 2017
- Revenue: $1M – $2.5M
- No. of employees: 16
Pros | Cons |
Real-time chat feature for direct and efficient communication with freelancers | Limited to freelancers in India, which may restrict access to native speakers of certain languages |
Regular updates provide transparency and control over projects | No built-in quality assurance process for evaluating completed translations |
Human customer support ensures quick resolution of any platform-related issues | Heavy reliance on client involvement for monitoring progress and providing feedback |
Why we like it: Fixnhour also provides regular updates and in-progress screenshots to help you track freelancer’s work every step of the way. With 24/7 human customer support, Fixnhour prioritizes seamless collaboration and payment protection.
12. Workana

Workana connects you with qualified translators and other professionals from Latin America. With over 3 million freelancers and 600,000 satisfied clients, Workana ensures access to a diverse talent pool ready to start translator work immediately.
You can post projects free of charge and benefit from protected payments through an escrow system, where funds are only released after the work is accepted and rated.
- Type: Freelance marketplace
- Pricing model: Commission fees – 20% for projects between $0-$300, 10% for projects between $301-$3000, 5% for projects over $3000
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time or full-time
- Year founded: 2012
- Revenue: $10M – $20M
- No. of employees: 4,500+
Pros | Cons |
Money-back guarantee provides confidence if a freelancer fails to deliver | Focus on Latin America may limit access to native speakers of less common languages |
Free project posting makes it easy to start the hiring process | Clients must manage project vetting and oversight themselves, which can be time-consuming |
A large network of freelancers ensures diverse expertise and availability | Freelancers’ availability and quality can vary widely, requiring careful selection |
Why we like it: With Workana, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee for undelivered work. Plus, its transparent payment protection and real-time updates ensure smooth project management from start to finish.
13. Zingword

Zingword is a specialized marketplace that connects you with freelance translators and interpreters across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. They feature a powerful profile builder that lets translators showcase their expertise and set transparent rates. Its advanced search system matches you with translators based on your preferred language.
- Type: Translation staffing marketplace
- Pricing model: Per word rates
- Talent expertise level: Mid to Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time
- Year founded: 2016
- Revenue: $500,000 – $1M
- No. of employees: 4
Pros | Cons |
Advanced search system matches clients with translators based on specialization | Requires clients to actively vet and manage freelancers for quality assurance |
Profile builder displays expertise and rates transparently | Limited information available about payment protections or dispute resolution processes |
Built-in communication and collaboration tools streamline project management |
Why we like it: With built-in communication and collaboration tools, Zingword simplifies project management while maintaining a robust validation process to promote industry trust and safety.
14. Guru

Guru is a freelance platform with over 211,000 skilled professionals for writing and translation projects. The platform verifies freelancers and shows feedback scores and transaction data, helping clients select proven talent. You can post jobs for free and choose flexible payment terms to suit your next translation project.
With 24/7 support available via phone or email, Guru ensures a hassle-free hiring experience.
- Type: Freelance marketplace
- Pricing model: Service fee of 2.9% on each invoice you pay
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time, Full-time
- Year founded: 1998
- Revenue: $20M – $50M
- No. of employees: 1,500+
Pros | Cons |
Verified freelancer profiles build transparency and trust | Platform fees can increase the overall cost for clients and freelancers |
Customer support ensures quick resolution of queries | Clients must actively vet and manage freelancers for quality assurance |
Access freelancers specializing in translation services |
Why we like it: With a 99% customer satisfaction rate, Guru provides a comprehensive solution for hiring translators. Their WorkRoom feature promotes seamless collaboration and tracking, while SafePay provides secure payment protection
???? You Won’t Believe This
60% of companies use monitoring software to track remote employees.
(Source)
15. Paperub

Paperub is a versatile platform for hiring freelancers across 1,800+ specialties. With 58.5 million registered users and a stellar 4.8/5 rating from over 2 million reviews, Paperub stands out for its commitment to quality and security.
- Type: Freelance Marketplace
- Pricing model: Commission of 3% for every work completed by freelancer
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time, Full-time
- Year founded: 2023
- Revenue: Private
- No. of employees: 500
Pros | Cons |
Flexible hiring process with no upfront costs—pay only for approved work | Costs may rise for premium recruiter services or top-tier freelancers |
Recruiter service provides pre-vetted talent, saving time for businesses | Clients must oversee project management and ensure ongoing quality |
24/7 support ensures reliable assistance and data protection for clients |
Why we like it: You can review work samples, check client reviews, and verify freelancer identities before hiring. For a fast and reliable hiring process, they offer a recruiter service that provides a shortlist of pre-vetted talent within 2 days.
16. PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is a freelance platform with over 3 million rated professionals offering expertise across 8,766 skills, including experienced translators. With 15+ years of experience, the platform uses an advanced AI Assistant to match businesses with expert freelance translators in minutes. Projects are mostly completed within 7 days, and payments are protected by their secure system.
- Type: Freelance marketplace
- Pricing model: Hourly rates start at $8/hr
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time, Full-time
- Year founded: 2007
- Revenue: $5M – $10M
- No. of employees: 3,500+
Pros | Cons |
Advanced AI Assistant matches freelancers quickly, saving time and effort | Heavy reliance on AI may not fully account for specific project requirements |
Secure payment system ensures you pay only after satisfactory project completion | Platform fees can increase overall costs for both clients and freelancers |
Flexible search filters by skill, location, or hourly rate help refine your options | Clients have to actively manage and oversee projects for quality outcomes |
Why we like it: They offer a dedicated 24/7 customer service team and a money-back guarantee for added peace of mind.
17. Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com offers access to over 60 million freelancers across 2,700+ skills. With 80% of jobs receiving bids within 60 seconds, you can hire freelance translators for projects of any size or budget. The platform’s free quote system lets you compare offers, and you only pay once you’re 100% satisfied with the work.
- Type: Freelance marketplace
- Pricing model: Service fee of 3% with each payment made
- Talent expertise level: Junior, Mid, and Senior translators
- Engagement model: Part-time, Full-time
- Year founded: 2009
- Revenue: $50M – $100M
- No. of employees: 75,000+
Pros | Cons |
Save up to 90% on costs with competitive bidding from freelancers worldwide | The large number of freelancers can make choosing the right candidate overwhelming |
Connects employers and freelancers from over 247 countries, covering diverse languages and regions | Freelancer qualifications and skills may vary, requiring thorough vetting by clients |
Receive bids within 60 seconds, saving time in the hiring process | Platform fees can increase project expenses |
Why we like it: Their live chat features allow real-time communication with freelancers, providing constant updates and opportunities for feedback. With users in over 247 countries and 24/7 customer support, they provide a smooth and efficient hiring experience.
Types Of Translation Work The Translator Can Do For You
Here are the 10 most common types of translation work a translator can provide
- Document translation: Contracts, manuals, reports, and other formal documents.
- Website localization: Adapting websites for specific languages and cultural audiences.
- Marketing material translation: Brochures, ads, and social media campaigns tailored for global markets.
- Legal translation: Translating legal contracts, court documents, and compliance materials.
- Technical translation: Manuals, patents, and technical specifications for industries like IT or engineering.
- Medical translation: Medical reports, patient records, and pharmaceutical documentation.
- Literary translation: Translating books, poems, or other creative content while maintaining artistic intent.
- Video and subtitling: Translating scripts or adding subtitles for videos and films.
- Interpretation services: Real-time translation for meetings, conferences, or phone calls.
- eCommerce content translation: Product descriptions, reviews, and customer support materials.
Core Skills & Qualifications To Look For In Translators
Here’s what to look for when choosing a skilled translator:
- Native or near-native fluency in both source and target languages.
- A strong understanding of cultural differences to make translations accurate and appropriate.
- Ability to spot and correct errors for accuracy and consistency.
- Strong research skills for industry-specific terms and adapt them appropriately.
- Clear and concise writing style tailored to the target audience.
- Proficiency in CAT tools like TRADOS, MemoQ, or Wordfast for efficient and consistent translation work.
- Ability to meet tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality output.
- Familiarity with specific industries like legal, medical, or technical fields for precise translations.
Cost Of Hiring A Translator: Salary Rates
The average cost of hiring a translator ranges between $20 and $50 per hour. However, rates depend on factors like the translator’s expertise, the type of work, language pair, and urgency:
- Freelance translators: $20–$40/hour, depending on experience and project complexity.
- Certified translators: $30–$70/hour for specialized or legal translations.
- Agency rates: $0.10–$0.30 per word, including proofreading and quality assurance.
- In-house translators: $40,000–$70,000/year, based on industry and location.
???? Interesting Stats
Companies that outsource to the Philippines can cut labor costs by 70%.
(Source)
Hiring Process: How To Find The Right Translator
Follow these steps to find and hire the right translator for your needs:

1. Define Your Needs
Identify the type of content to be translated (e.g., legal, technical, marketing) and the required language pair. This ensures you target translators with the right expertise.
2. Search On Reliable Platforms
Use reputable platforms like Genius to find skilled translators. Look for platforms offering verified profiles, reviews, and ratings.
3. Review Profiles & Portfolios
Evaluate translators based on their experience, specialization, certifications, and past work samples. Focus on those with expertise in your industry or content type.
4. Check Client Reviews & References
Look for feedback from previous clients to gauge reliability, quality, and adherence to deadlines. If possible, request references for further validation.
5. Test Their Skills
Assign a small paid project or sample test to assess their linguistic abilities, cultural understanding, and attention to detail.
6. Clarify Terms Before Hiring
Discuss project timelines, payment rates, tools used (e.g., CAT tools), and communication expectations. Use a written agreement to formalize the terms.
Translator Job Description Template (Ready-To-Use)
Here’s a job description you can customize to find the perfect translator:
Job Title: Translator Job Overview: We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Translator to convert written material from [Source Language] into [Target Language] while preserving meaning, tone, and cultural nuances. The ideal candidate will have expertise in [specific industry, e.g., legal, medical, or technical translations], strong research skills, and proficiency in translation tools. Key Responsibilities: – Translate content accurately and contextually from [Source Language] to [Target Language]. – Maintain the original meaning, style, and tone in all translations. – Research and resolve terminology inconsistencies using glossaries or CAT tools. – Proofread and edit translations to ensure quality and accuracy. – Collaborate with team members to meet project deadlines. Requirements: – Native or near-native proficiency in [Target Language] and fluency in [Source Language]. – Experience in [specific industry or type of translation]. – Proficiency in CAT tools (e.g., TRADOS, MemoQ, Wordfast). – Strong attention to detail and cultural sensitivity.Excellent time management and organizational skills. Preferred Qualifications: – Certification in translation (e.g., ATA, ISO). – Prior experience working on [specific types of projects, e.g., legal contracts, marketing materials]. How to Apply: Submit your resume, portfolio, and rates to [contact email]. Include a brief description of your relevant experience. |
Conclusion
Most overseas hiring is a nightmare: endless bad applications, sketchy credentials, poor communication, high turnover, and time zone chaos. We know because we’ve been there.
So, we built a solution to make it easier. We use local university networks, work with on-ground recruiters, and use a rigorous vetting process that includes a culture fit guarantee.
The results speak for themselves. We screen over 250 candidates to find just ONE who meets our standards. But when we do, they’re incredible.
Just tell us what you need—it only takes a minute. There’s zero risk, no monthly fees, and a 6-month guarantee.
FAQs
What’s the difference between freelance and agency translators?
Freelance translators are independent professionals who provide more affordable and flexible services. Agencies, on the other hand, offer end-to-end project management, quality assurance, and access to a team of translators for complex or large-scale projects.
Is proofreading included in translation services?
Proofreading is not always included in translation services and may come at an additional cost. Some translators offer combined services, while others recommend hiring a separate proofreader for enhanced accuracy.
What should I ask translators during the interview process?
Ask about their experience, certifications, language pair expertise, tools they use (e.g., CAT tools), and familiarity with your industry. Additionally, inquire about availability, turnaround times, and their process for ensuring translation quality.
What are common pitfalls to avoid when hiring a translator?
Avoid hiring without verifying qualifications, rushing the selection process, or failing to provide clear project instructions. Skipping a small test project or neglecting to establish clear terms for deadlines and payments produces low-quality results.