Sr Translator (CONTRACTOR)

Panasonic•Sparks, NV

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Translator performs simultaneous and consecutive interpreting and document translation between Japanese and English. The role supports communication between Japanese and local personnel on technical and non-technical subjects in person, in online meetings, and in writing. It requires native-level or near-native proficiency in both languages, cultural understanding of Japan and the U.S., and the ability to interpret specialized technical terminology. The position also trains and mentors other translators and contributes to collaboration and continuous improvement. The role may involve interpreting for executives and customers in onsite, one-to-one, group, and online settings, where accuracy and confidentiality are essential. The translator shares terminology with colleagues, develops training materials, assists with staff coordination and leadership activities, and uses software on a laptop or smartphone to communicate with coworkers. Other duties may be assigned to support Japanese nationals within the organization. Some duties may require personal protective equipment, including safety gear or a hazmat suit with respirator. The role is onsite at Panasonic Energy in De Soto, Kansas.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Bilingual or native and near-native Japanese and English speaker, with at least ILR Level 4+ proficiency in the non-native language.
At least 5 years of interpreting experience in manufacturing, or comparable experience in areas such as mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering, maintenance, or repair.
In-depth knowledge of relevant production processes, equipment, and internal business processes.
Ability to accurately capture and translate nuances while accounting for cross-cultural differences.
Strong communication skills and ability to maintain active communication with management and employees.
Ability to interpret in consecutive, liaison, chuchotage, and simultaneous modes, including in front of groups.
Professional demeanor and ability to remain impartial between parties.
Computer skills and experience with Microsoft Suite applications.
Familiarity with commonly used remote interpreting software and simultaneous interpreting devices.
Punctual, attentive, people-oriented, and a team player.
Alignment with Panasonic's seven core principles: contribution to society, fairness and honesty, cooperation and team spirit, untiring effort for improvement, courtesy and humility, adaptability, and gratitude.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Valid authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction.
Pre-employment drug testing is required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in language, linguistics, education, translation or interpretation, an engineering field, or equivalent experience; alternatively, a technical degree focused on manufacturing or equivalent education and experience.
Lived, studied, and/or worked professionally in both Japan and the U.S. or another English-speaking country for more than 5 years in each.
Experience as lead interpreter on projects lasting more than 2 weeks with multiple interpreters.
Knowledge of lean manufacturing, TPS, or Six Sigma.
At least 5 years of translation experience using CAT tools and other document software.
Technological familiarity with devices, software, and audio equipment used for interpretation.
Interpreting or translation certificate, or membership in an interpreting or translation association.

Responsibilities

Interpret in onsite, one-to-one, group, and online meeting settings, including meetings for executives and customers.
Use relevant Japanese and English terminology to interpret effectively between parties.
Maintain the confidentiality of meeting agendas and sensitive topics.
Share technical and non-technical terminology in English and Japanese with fellow translators.
Guide and train other translators, develop training materials for new translators, and lead by example.
Support the translator supervisor with staff coordination when business needs arise.
Use laptop and/or smartphone software applications to communicate promptly with coworkers in English and Japanese.
Complete assigned relevant training.
Assist leadership with planning, scheduling, training, improvement activities, presentations, equipment and software research, and related tasks.
Perform other duties as needed to support Japanese nationals within the organization.