Jobs that require your French skills

Let’s explore some of the major industries and jobs in which you can apply with a French proficiency on your resume.

​Communication

1. Translation
A translator is a person who works between at least two written languages, working with documents such as books, instruction manuals and newspaper articles. Translation is a profession that appeals to francophones for its flexibility.
You can work remotely and set your own schedule if you work independently.
Translators are often successful in the foreign country in which they reside. To break into the translation industry you will need to specialize in a specific field (law, science, medicine, education).
 
2. Interpreter
An interpreter is a person who works with at least two spoken languages. Interpreters are required in conferences and courtrooms. Simultaneous interpretation is the most requested form as in the case of UN interpreters.
To be an interpreter in French is to convey the words and personality of the person for whom you interpret.
You must be comfortable speaking, deciphering accents and finding appropriate and equivalent expressions in all languages.

Publishing

3. Proofreader
Everything that is published should have good proofreading. You will work in collaboration with a translator. Your role will be to check grammar and typography.

4. Publisher
Working as a publisher is another possibility. Your responsibilities extend beyond those of a reviewer. Your job is to ensure that French content uses the appropriate syntax and flows.

Hotels, tourism and travel

5. Tour Guide
Multilingual tour guides work in places such as museums and monuments. If you like to discuss and discover different cultures, becoming a tourist guide is a position to consider.

6. Flight Attendant
Multi-language flight attendants are essential, especially on international long-haul flights. English is a very popular language and French is another. Being bilingual in this language pair will give you a huge advantage at the beginning of your career.

7. Casino, Resort or Hotel Staff
The hotel industry is an ideal place to use your French and there are a variety of positions to fill, from receptionist to manager, depending on your qualifications and previous experience.

Foreign Service

8. Consul, ambassador or diplomat.
The foreign service of a country is a branch of government that provides diplomatic services to other countries. Embassy and consulate staff must speak the local language. By mastering French, you have many opportunities to invest.

Education

9. French Teacher
A foolproof way to use your French is to become a French teacher in your country.
While teaching credentials or an education degree are not always required for these positions, they can give you a competitive advantage if you have them.

10. Teacher of English as a Second Language (ESL)
Another great way to use French is to become an ESL teacher. The key is to find a position in a francophone country. You will have to translate from English to French for your students and you will speak a lot in French in the teachers' room.

11. Voice-over artist
Do you have a face for radio? Are you really good at making an impression? With your French, these qualities could make you an incredible voice-over artist. Voice-overs are solicited for movie dubbing, commercials and cartoons.

International Development

12. Staff of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
NGOs are constantly looking for people who speak several languages. Working in an NGO is an excellent option for expatriates living in France or another French-speaking country.