Japanese-English Translator – Contract-to-Hire Role (Oakland)

Fictiv Exists to Enable Hardware Innovators to Build Better Products, Faster

Fictiv, coined the “AWS of manufacturing,” is a leading technology company transforming the $350 billion manufacturing industry. Our cutting-edge cloud platform uses AI and machine learning algorithms to help companies build hardware at the speed of software. Come join our growing team!

Japanese-English Translator (Part-Time, Contract with Potential for Full-Time Hire)

Location: Oakland, California (On-site)
Department: People Operations (HR)
Engagement: Contract, Part-Time

The Opportunity

Fictiv is seeking a bilingual Japanese-English Translator to support our Oakland, California team on a part-time contract basis. You will play a vital role in ensuring accurate communication and cultural understanding between our U.S. and Japan-based colleagues.

This position begins as a contract role with part-time hours and requires availability during scheduled business meetings and activities. Over time, there is an opportunity for the right individual to transition into a full-time hire based on performance and business needs.

What You’ll Do

• Provide real-time interpretation for leadership meetings and cross-functional discussions (Japanese ↔ English).
• Translate internal documents, HR communications, and training materials with precision and cultural nuance.
• Act as a cultural liaison, strengthening collaboration across global teams.
• Support People Operations initiatives when translation needs are lighter.

What We’re Looking For

• Native or near-native fluency in Japanese and English.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. and Japanese cultural and workplace practices.
• Professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive or high-level conversations.
• Prior experience in corporate or leadership-level interpretation is strongly preferred.
• Must be available to work on-site in our Oakland, CA office during business hours.

Why Join Us?

• Contract-to-hire path: Start part-time with the potential to move into a full-time position.
• Global impact: Play a central role in bridging language and culture across international teams.
• Collaborative team: Work closely with HR professionals dedicated to inclusive and effective communication.

Compensation

This contract role pays $45.00 – $85.00 per hour, depending on experience.

About Fictiv

Our Digital Manufacturing Ecosystem is transforming how the next rockets, self-driving cars, and life-saving robots are designed, developed and delivered to customers around the world.

This transformation is made possible through our technology-backed platform, our global network of manufacturing partners, and our people with deep expertise in hardware and software development.

We’re actively seeking potential teammates who can bring diverse perspectives and experience to our culture and company. We believe inclusion is the best way to create a strong, empathetic team. Our belief is that the best team is born from an environment that emphasizes respect, honesty, collaboration, and growth.

We encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups, including but not limited to women, members of the LGBTQ community, people of color, people with disabilities, and veterans.