Dubbing

Term from Translation industry explained for recruiters

Dubbing is the process of replacing the original voice track of a video or film with voices in a different language. It's different from subtitling because instead of adding text at the bottom of the screen, the original dialogue is completely replaced with new voice recordings. This work requires not just translation skills, but also attention to lip synchronization and cultural adaptation to make the content feel natural to the target audience. When you see terms like "voice-over" or "language replacement" in resumes, they often refer to similar work.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Dubbing projects for Netflix series from English to Spanish

Directed Voice-Over and Dubbing sessions for animated content

Provided Dubbing translation and adaptation for 20+ feature films

Typical job title: "Dubbing Directors"

Also try searching for:

Dubbing Translator Voice-Over Director Audio Localization Specialist Dubbing Script Adapter Dubbing Project Manager Multimedia Translator Audiovisual Translator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle challenging lip-sync situations in dubbing projects?

Expected Answer: Should explain approaches to adapting translations to match mouth movements while keeping the meaning intact, and mention experience managing complex projects with tight deadlines.

Q: How do you ensure consistency across a large dubbing project with multiple voices?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creation and maintenance of glossaries, style guides, and coordination between voice talents, translators, and sound engineers.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for adapting cultural references in dubbing projects?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they handle idioms, jokes, and cultural elements to make them relevant for the target audience while maintaining the original message.

Q: How do you maintain audio quality standards in dubbing projects?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic sound quality requirements, working with sound engineers, and quality control processes.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between dubbing and voice-over?

Expected Answer: Should explain that dubbing requires lip-sync and complete replacement of original audio, while voice-over often plays over the original and doesn't require precise timing.

Q: What basic tools do you use in dubbing projects?

Expected Answer: Should mention familiarity with basic audio recording software, script preparation tools, and translation memory systems.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic translation skills
  • Understanding of lip-sync principles
  • Familiarity with recording software
  • Script preparation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Project coordination
  • Cultural adaptation expertise
  • Quality control processes
  • Voice talent direction

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex project management
  • Team leadership
  • Client relationship management
  • Budget oversight

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with translation or language work
  • Poor understanding of cultural differences
  • No knowledge of audio recording basics
  • Lack of attention to detail in timing and synchronization

Related Terms