Become a terminologist
Learn what terminologists do and how to work as a terminologist at the Translation Bureau
On this page
- The role of a terminologist
- How to become a terminologist
- Working as a terminologist at the Translation Bureau
- Providing terminology services as a contractor
- Related links
The role of a terminologist
Terminologists are experts in specialized words and language. Their work involves:
- consulting specialized texts to tease out field-specific terms and conducting research to confirm the meaning and accuracy of those terms
- writing definitions
- recommending the correct term for a concept
- creating a new term when none exists
- creating glossaries to standardize terminology
Terminologists may work in one or multiple languages. At the Translation Bureau, terminologists generally work in both official languages.
Skills and qualifications required
To successfully carry out their work, terminologists must:
- have excellent skills in their working languages
- have a passion for in-depth research
- have good synthesizing abilities to summarize their research findings
- use sound judgment to analyze terminology issues and propose solutions
- demonstrate attention to detail
- have good computer skills
How to become a terminologist
There are few programs of study dedicated exclusively to terminology . Generally, terminology courses are provided as part of translation programs.
A translation degree is sufficient to become a terminologist.
To learn more about translation programs:
- Visit the web pages of member universities of the Canadian Association of Schools of Translation.
- Look up your province or territory’s order or association of translators.
Working as a terminologist at the Translation Bureau
The Translation Bureau requires:
- a degree from a recognized post-secondary institution with specialization in:
- terminology
- translation
- linguistics
- any other relevant specialty
Job opportunities are posted as needed on the Government of Canada Jobs page.
Providing terminology services as a contractor
The Translation Bureau keeps a directory of suppliers for the few occasions when it requires private sector terminology services.
To learn about the criteria you need to meet and how to provide your terminology services as a service provider, visit Offering your terminology services.