Profile of the profession

Terminologists establish the terms specific to a field of activity, define them, and then find equivalents in another language. They also define the terms in use for businesses, databases, glossaries, dictionaries and lexicons for the purposes of standardization.

Aptitudes of terminologists

Terminologists are skilled in information technologies, demonstrate attention to detail and enjoy conducting in-depth research. They also have a lively intellectual curiosity and an aptitude for synthesizing information.

Owing to their experience and professional relations with specialists, terminologists often play an advisory role in the management of projects in their own fields.

Working conditions

Two categories of terminologists can be distinguished by the manner in which they exercise their profession: as employees or independent contractors. In response to the new needs created by the closure of many corporate language departments, the latter group is growing.

The work of terminologists is extremely varied. They are required to work with writers, researchers and specialists, and are often called upon for quality control. They must be autonomous, well-acquainted with available documentation, and able to develop a network of resource persons.

Training

Terminology is taught at several Quebec universities as part of graduate or undergraduate translation programs. There are currently no university programs specializing solely in terminology.

Certified Terminologist: A reserved title

Only OTTIAQ members in good standing can practise under the title of Certified Terminologist (C. Term.). Certified Terminologists have skills recognized by the Order, which makes them professionals. For more information on the responsibilities of OTTIAQ members, see the section on Protecting the Public.

For more information on the profession itself, consult the flyer entitled Optez pour une carrière en traduction, terminologie, interprétation – Pour un futur plus-que-parfait! (PDF, in French only)

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