Interpreter and translator
Interpreters convey conversations orally, translators render texts in writing into another language. If you grow up with several languages, you have a real head start here.
Typical tasks
- translating texts such as contracts, instructions or websites
- interpreting at conversations, conferences or appointments with authorities
- researching technical terms and building glossaries
- proofreading other people's translations
- working with translation software and checking its results
Where people work
Interpreters and translators often work freelance, and also in translation agencies, international organisations, public authorities, courts, hospitals and companies.
A good fit if
- you speak several languages well, including your family's language
- you work carefully and pay attention to nuances
- you are a good listener
- you are interested in other countries and cultures
Education pathways in Austria
In Austria you need the Matura (school-leaving exam), for example at an AHS (academic secondary school), and then study transcultural communication or translation and interpreting at a university. In Germany the equivalent is the Gymnasiale Oberstufe (Abitur) and a university degree, in Switzerland the Gymnasium (Maturität) and a degree at a university or ETH.
- AHS-Oberstufe (Gymnasium)
- General education with Matura as the basis for university. 4 years
- Universität
- Academic degree: bachelor, master or diploma. 3 to 6 years
Matching schools in Austria
A selection from our school list. Not every school of this type offers every specialisation, so ask the school directly.
- BG und BRG OberwartAHS, 7400 Oberwart, BurgenlandCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
- Europagymnasium KlagenfurtAHS, 9020 Klagenfurt, KärntenCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
- BG und BRG Baden BiondekgasseAHS, 2500 Baden, NiederösterreichCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
- Akademisches Gymnasium LinzAHS, 4020 Linz, OberösterreichCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
- Akademisches Gymnasium SalzburgAHS, 5020 Salzburg, SalzburgCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
- Akademisches Gymnasium GrazAHS, 8010 Graz, SteiermarkCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
- Akademisches Gymnasium InnsbruckAHS, 6020 Innsbruck, TirolCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
- BG Bregenz BlumenstraßeAHS, 6900 Bregenz, VorarlbergCollected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
Frequently asked questions
Will artificial intelligence replace this job?
Machines take over simple translations. For difficult texts, conversations and sensitive situations, people who check and take responsibility are still needed.
Does my family language count too?
Yes. Rare languages are often in demand, for example for interpreting in hospitals or at public authorities.
Do I have to speak perfect German?
Very good German is important because you work in both directions. You can improve it specifically at school and university.
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