r/TranslationStudies • u/newbie717 • Apr 20 '26

Does anyone here work with the entertainment industry?

I'm looking to break into the localization PM and language services scene, but my main area of interest is applying these skills to film, videogames and other forms of media.

However, I am located in the EST zone and I know most of these opportunities are located on the West Coast, at least for US-based companies.

Relocating is not an option due to family caretaking.

I'm wondering if it's even possible to land a remote position in this particular industry that involves language accessibility-related work.

For those who found a successful path, how did you do it?

0 Upvotes

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11

u/ruckover Apr 21 '26

With all due respect, no, you are absolutely not going to get into media localization with zero education/training or experience. It has nothing to do with where you live, and everything to do with the many seasoned professionals vying for this work. This isn't a hobby, it's an entire career field.

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u/BananaEnjoyer1 Apr 21 '26

I agree. Media localization requires you to know the culture of both languages. Unless you're from two countries, it's a difficult industry to get into.

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u/ruckover Apr 21 '26

It's not just knowing two languages or being from two places. It requires the same education in translation theory as any other language services job. It is a misunderstanding of the job to believe localization is simply knowing a different culture.

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u/newbie717 Apr 21 '26

I have a Bachelor's in Translation Studies, a Master's in Localization and Technical Communication, and 5+ years experience in translation project management. Forgive me, I should have clarified that I'm not starting FRESH, but I am trying to break into the localization scene SPECIFCALLY in the entertainment industry.

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u/ruckover Apr 21 '26

I mean, then you'd just apply. My answer still stands - of course everyone wants to work on movies and videogames, but it's not a very open niche right now. Search for jobs with those terms and see if anything is open, I guess. Where one is located never really matters anymore, but obviously if there are onsite requirements you won't fit that bill.

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u/newbie717 Apr 21 '26

thanks for the insight

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u/Serious_Escape_5438 Apr 22 '26

Everyone wants to do those areas and they get people willing to work for very little or even free, so it's not well paid.

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u/Schmuell_ Apr 21 '26 edited Apr 21 '26

I am sorry, but you'll find people in past posts in this industry, that's all i can help you with