“What I find most rewarding about my work is that I get to bring the EU closer to people. I translate texts, audio scripts and subtitles with a particular focus on clear language. I also record audio products and operate a linguistic helpline. In addition, I participate in different working groups, which play an essential role in shaping the future of our translation service. And, speaking of the future, the European Parliament organises public events and outreach activities that give me the opportunity to share my experience with the next generation of translators and language professionals!”

“I joined the European Commission’s translation service in 2009 after working for a decade as a journalist, following studies in biology and environmental policy.

I planned to translate for a couple of years and then explore opportunities elsewhere, but the work here has been much more varied and intellectually stimulating than I expected – so I have yet to think about leaving! Over the years I have had lots of roles, including organising events and doing internal and external outreach.

Many of my colleagues studied languages and a large number specialised in translation, but a good few of us accumulated the necessary skills on different career paths. I never studied translation and had relatively limited experience of it before the competition, but we have excellent in-house training to plug knowledge gaps. This includes training on the latest tools and technologies, such as machine translation and now AI. These have not yet removed the essential satisfaction I get from being the human mind that decides how the final translation looks.

Another major factor behind me staying in translation has been the opportunity to learn – and to regularly use – new languages.”

“Since I was a translation student, I have been fascinated by how multilingualism works in the EU institutions. Working as an Intercultural and Language Professional at the European Parliament has given me the chance to contribute to EU multilingualism and democracy. What I enjoy most is the variety of linguistic tasks: we translate texts using clear language, edit parliamentary documents, and localise content for websites and exhibitions. It’s a very supportive and welcoming place to work with plenty of opportunities to pick up new skills and knowledge! “

“As part of the Greek team in the Directorate for Citizens’ Language, I love that our work extends beyond words — it’s about storytelling, creativity and collaboration. We bring Parliament’s texts to life by using clear and accessible language, always keeping our audience in mind. We also translate and record podcasts and subtitle videos, offering content in diverse formats to reach everyone effectively. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do, as we work closely with colleagues across languages, sharing ideas and brainstorming solutions to all kinds of linguistic challenges. When we see people engaging with our material and connecting in this way with Parliament’s work, it is incredibly fulfilling! It reminds us that our efforts truly bridge cultures and make a difference.”

“I enjoy language and feel fortunate to work at the European Parliament, where translators strive to provide the best possible language versions to both Members and the public.

Multilingualism allows people in the EU to participate in the European project on an equal footing, and communicating with citizens in their own language fosters a sense of belonging.

The texts and tasks are diverse, and often challenging. Although technology is an inestimable asset, what I appreciate the most are my great colleagues: there is a close-knit team spirit, and everyone is open to newcomers and always willing to help out.”

“Joining the European Parliament’s translation service in 2022 has allowed me to contribute directly to the development of the European project. As an Intercultural and Language Professional, my translations help citizens to better understand the role and functioning of Parliament in three formats: text, audio and video. In Luxembourg, I have found an open, inspiring, dynamic and growth-oriented environment. Colleagues and managers alike have welcomed me warmly, helping me feel comfortable from day one. And the mix of languages and cultures is just the icing on the cake!”

“As a former translation scholar, I have always believed that translation ought not to be a mechanical, but instead a creative endeavour, carried out by people who strive towards communicating clearly with the public in a way that is exciting and engaging.

As a language professional of the European Parliament’s Directorate for Translation, I get to dedicate my time to translating subtitles, podcasts, press releases, and many other types of texts that not only document the content of the original texts, but also resonate with the target audience.”

“Having grown up between Wallonia and Flanders and having later spent ten years as a young adult in Germany, multilingualism and multiculturalism have always been a part of my life. Working for the Council of the EU combines my passion for language, my multicultural background and my profound belief in the European project. My work as a French-language translator is meaningful and directly serves my fellow citizens and my continent. Due to the very political nature of the Council, deadlines are short and flexibility is required, which means our work can be challenging, but also very stimulating and rewarding.”

“Translating for the European Union is for me not only a dream job, but also a way to bring the EU closer to citizens, giving them the opportunity to read and understand in their language what our Union does for them. Quality and speed are of the essence at the Council and this is – I believe – the most thrilling part: delivering accurate texts while meeting the strict deadlines linked to the political context. From security and defence to fishing through terminology, I'm confronted every day with a variety of topics which make my work even more diverse and interesting.”

“I have been working as a translator for Maltese at the European Commission since 2018.

This has always been a career aspiration for me, and after completing a master’s in translation I immediately signed up for a traineeship at the European Parliament in Luxembourg. During this early part of my career I got first-hand experience of the multicultural lifestyle that Luxembourg has to offer.

Today, I am proud to be working in a rich multilingual and multicultural workplace that fosters innovative approaches to the evolving field of translation.

Through my work as a translator, I am proud to be making a small but valuable contribution to the next chapter in the history of our shared language.

If this sounds appealing to you, apply to join our team of translators who are eager to make a difference and to help ensure that Maltese continues to thrive in this increasingly digital world, one translation at a time.”