The translation of engineering-related documents and reports is considered a type of Technical translation. Now, from this seemingly simple definition, a second question derives: What exactly is a technical translation?
Very briefly, we will say this: a technical translation is so called because in it the translators face idioms Very complex and specific, also called jargon.
In technical translation works, as is the case of engineering, the words, expressions and terms of our own predominate, that is, those that move away from those we use in ordinary life..
What is the translation of engineering reports?
A technical report is a formal document that is written in order to transmit technical information as clearly as possible. As it seems evident, the translation of technical reports will require the translator to have a broad knowledge of the subject in question.
In the case of engineering technical reports, the translator must be familiar with the concepts, terms and vocabulary of the sector for which he translates, in addition to the fact that the professional is a native of the target language.
In technical translation, specialized terminology is usually used, and the structure of the texts tends to be very rigid and determined in advance. In addition, clarity and conciseness are essential elements.
What job characteristics should a good translator of engineering reports and texts have?
so that a professional translator of engineering is competent in its work specialty, firstly, it will be necessary for it to have experience and background in the sector for which it works.
Not only is it enough for the translator to know perfectly the languages with which he often interacts (Spanish and English, for example), but you should also be an expert in the technical language you will have to deal with..
Let’s give some examples. In Spain, the translator oriented to civil engineering must know in depth the languages used within that sector in our country, while the translator focused on computer engineering and software must have high knowledge in the world of computers and devices mobiles.
On the other hand, the engineering industry is a technical sector where precision is extremely important. An error, no matter how small, can cause enormous damage to the final result. For this reason, the translator of texts related to engineering must be extremely attentive and careful with his work.
Also, when translating to other languages Short and simple sentences should be prioritized instead of long, convoluted sentences with many subordinates and digressions.
What are the regular customers of an engineering translator?
Customers who demand translations of engineering-related documents and reports are usually, as a rule, companies and organizations from the world of industry.
However, beyond the industrial sector, translators can be hired by faculties and master’s studies in engineering, by companies and small studies, by private engineers and by other technical professionals. In addition, professional translators can also work for magazines and publishers in the sector.
The possibilities are very wide, as can be seen, since the world of engineering branches into many possibilities: Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, Genetics, Electronics, Agrarian, Telecommunications, Aeronautics, Forestry and Rural Environment and an extensive etcetera.
And with what kind of documents and reports does an engineering oriented technical translator usually work? The documents that a translation professional works with are also very varied, but some of the texts to be translated can be feasibility reports, CAD drawings, technical analysis, assembly instructions, test protocols or safety data sheets, among many other options.
Finally, it is important to take into consideration a couple of other aspects:
- These types of translations are usually carried out by high-volume orders.
- It is a sector where very specific and adjusted delivery times are usually required. The flexibility and availability of the professional translator thus becomes a determining factor of technical translation.
On NUADDA We have been working with technical translations of all kinds for more than 20 years and we can carry out the translation work that companies or projects need. Contact with us
