Japanese-English Translator Contract-to-Hire Role (Oakland, CA - On-site)

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!

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

Japanese-English Translator – Contract-to-Hire Role

Location: Oakland, California (On-site)
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.

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.