[Remote] Localization Project Manager

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. TransPerfect provides managed localization services to global technology companies. This contractor role supports TransPerfect-led Japanese localization initiatives across multilingual digital products, ensuring linguistic quality and cultural accuracy within established localization workflows.ResponsibilitiesSupport the Localization Project Manager with all production phases of incoming translation requests from teamsCoordinate the translation and localization of software products for Japan and other established localesBe instrumental in the successful delivery to the Japanese market, responsible for managing all phases of the localization production process, ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality localized software that meets the linguistic and cultural requirements of the target localeProvide localization project management support to:Coordinate all localization activities, including translation, editing, proofreading, and quality assuranceServe as the primary point of contact for all localization-related inquiries and issues, both internally and externallyCollaborate with internal teams and external vendors to establish project timelines and deliverablesManage localization resources, including translators, editors, and company engineers, to optimize efficiency and qualityCommunicate regularly with stakeholders to provide updates on project status, address concerns, and gather feedbackIdentify and mitigate potential risks and challenges that may impact the localization process or timelineMonitor project progress and performance metrics to ensure adherence to established goals and standardsImplement continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes and enhance localization efficiency and qualityManage incoming translation requests in Jira, collect reference materials and visual context, and assign work to translatorsBe aware of strings internationalization best practices and flag potential internationalization issues found in strings to the engineering teamUpload requests into the Smartling platform, set due dates for vendors, and deliver completed extracted translations to engineering teamsResearch and answer translators’ queries about source content to ensure accuracy (use internal resources and interface with writers, product, and engineering teams as needed)Ensure adherence to established terminology and style guidesSkillsMUST BE FLUENT IN JAPANESERelevant university degree, certifications, or professional experienceExperience with terminology management and project managementFluency in the target language; knowledge of additional languages is a plusProven experience managing localization projects for software products, preferably for the target language/localeStrong knowledge of localization tools (Smartling) and technologies, translation management systems, version control systems, Jira, and ConfluenceExcellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partnersExceptional organizational and time management abilities, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneouslyCultural sensitivity and awareness, with a deep understanding of the target market's preferences, norms, and cultural nuancesStrong problem-solving skills and the ability to think strategically to overcome challenges and drive project success3 - 5 years of relative experienceAndroid and Mac environmentsTranslation tools (CAT tools) such as Smartling, SDL Trados, XTM, Idiom, LiltGoogle shared documents and spreadsheetsAnnotating screenshotsWorking with PDFsKnowing how to handle software strings, identify text from strings ID's in xml, javascript, .properties, and JSON file formats; knowing how to work with variables/placeholders in text stringsFamiliarity with JIRA or other bug tracking systemsUnderstanding of software release cycles and Agile developmentAttention to detail, flexible mindset, independent learnerAbility to work with multiple product teams around the globe to deliver overall language quality and consistency while maintaining a strong user experienceFamiliarity or past experience in payments, banking, POS systems, and merchant apps is a plusProject management certification (e.g., PMP) is a plusExperience working in Agile or Scrum environments is desirableCompany OverviewTransPerfect is a language services company offering multilingual translation and interpreting solutions to multinational businesses. It was founded in 1992, and is headquartered in New York, New York, USA, with a workforce of 5001-10000 employees. Its website is http://www.transperfect.com.Company H1B SponsorshipTransPerfect has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 3 in 2025, 2 in 2024, 4 in 2021, 3 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.