Japanese-English Translator – Contract-to-Hire Role

*This position is based in the Oakland, CA office*

Japanese-English Translator – Contract-to-Hire Role

Department: People Operations (HR)

Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire (Hourly)

About the Role

Fictiv is seeking a culturally fluent, bilingual Japanese-English Translator to support our team in Oakland, California on a contract-to-hire basis. This individual will play a vital role in bridging communication between our U.S. and Japan-based teams. You will provide high-quality interpretation and translation support and help foster cultural alignment across global functions.

This is an on-site contract-to-hire role, ideal for a freelance or consulting professional with strong Japanese-English fluency and cultural expertise. The expected duration and hours may vary depending on business needs, with opportunities to transition into a full-time role based on performance and business alignment. You will work closely with the People Operations (HR) team.

What You'll Be Doing

• Interpret live discussions in leadership and cross-functional meetings (Japanese ↔ English)
• Translate internal documents, templates, communications, and presentations with precision
• Serve as a cultural consultant to help U.S. and Japanese teams collaborate effectively
• Localize content such as internal policies, procedures, and training materials
• Support People Operations (HR) team initiatives when not actively translating

Desired Traits and Experience

• Native or near-native fluency in Japanese and English
• Deep understanding of both Japanese and U.S. cultural and business norms
• Strong interpersonal skills; able to handle high-stakes or sensitive communication with professionalism
• Prior experience interpreting in corporate or leadership environments
• Located in or willing to commute to our Oakland, California office (this is an on-site role)
• Previous collaboration with People Operations (HR) or cross-cultural teams is a plus

Why Join Us on a Contract-to-Hire Basis?

• Opportunity to transition into a full-time position based on performance and fit
• Work with a global, mission-driven team
• Contribute meaningfully to cross-cultural alignment in a growing tech environment
• Flexible engagement with a collaborative and inclusive workplace
• Gain exposure to international business operations and strategic communication

This contracting role will pay in the range of $45.00 - $85.00 per hour depending on experience.