I am a linguist and localization expert with over 10 years of experience specializing in managing high-impact translation and language quality. As a native Mexican Spanish speaker fluent in English, I have developed localization strategies, enforced linguistic standards, and coordinated with both internal and external stakeholders to create content tailored for Latin American audiences. In addition to my localization work, I freelance as a conference and medical interpreter and I am currently pursuing California Court Interpreter Certification. My passion lies in delivering culturally relevant and linguistically accurate content that enhances accessibility and engagement for Spanish-speaking communities.

Adriana Zavala

I am a linguist and localization expert with over 10 years of experience specializing in managing high-impact translation and language quality. As a native Mexican Spanish speaker fluent in English, I have developed localization strategies, enforced linguistic standards, and coordinated with both internal and external stakeholders to create content tailored for Latin American audiences. In addition to my localization work, I freelance as a conference and medical interpreter and I am currently pursuing California Court Interpreter Certification. My passion lies in delivering culturally relevant and linguistically accurate content that enhances accessibility and engagement for Spanish-speaking communities.

Available to hire

I am a linguist and localization expert with over 10 years of experience specializing in managing high-impact translation and language quality. As a native Mexican Spanish speaker fluent in English, I have developed localization strategies, enforced linguistic standards, and coordinated with both internal and external stakeholders to create content tailored for Latin American audiences.

In addition to my localization work, I freelance as a conference and medical interpreter and I am currently pursuing California Court Interpreter Certification. My passion lies in delivering culturally relevant and linguistically accurate content that enhances accessibility and engagement for Spanish-speaking communities.

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Language

Spanish; Castilian
Fluent
English
Fluent
French
Advanced
Portuguese
Advanced
Italian
Intermediate

Work Experience

Senior English-Spanish Translator, Copyeditor, and Proofreader at San Francisco Department of Elections
June 1, 2019 - Present
Lead translation and quality assurance for official election materials ensuring linguistic accuracy and cultural relevance aligned with federal, state, and internal standards. Provided cultural and linguistic expertise to guide Spanish content strategy, increasing accessibility and civic engagement among Spanish-speaking voters. Reviewed peer translations and enhanced clarity, accuracy, and tone consistency. Developed and maintained Spanish glossaries to standardize terminology and improve localization. Collaborated with translators, vendors, and project managers to improve workflows. Managed a high-volume bilingual inquiry line and delivered high-quality translations under strict, time-sensitive deadlines compliant with California Election code. Provided real-time English-Spanish interpretation over the phone and video.
Lead Audiovisual Translator and Localization Specialist at Captioning Services Network Media
July 1, 2018 - August 26, 2025
Developed subtitles for major films and flagship TV series (Law & Order, Shark Tank, The Goldbergs) in English-Spanish, French-Spanish, and Portuguese-Spanish. Adapted dialogue for tone, register, and cultural nuance for Latin American audiences. Refined time coding, character limits, and formatting for optimal subtitle synchronization and readability. Applied stylistic guidelines and collaborated with QA teams to maintain high linguistic and technical standards.
Interpreter & Translation Consultant (Contract) at U.S. Department of Commerce
July 1, 2016 - August 26, 2025
Delivered high-stakes consecutive and sight interpretation during international trade negotiations and legal proceedings. Translated complex commercial contracts and memoranda focusing on legal and financial accuracy. Researched specialized legal terminology to ensure precision. Managed multiple translation projects and coordinated client schedules. Key accomplishment includes contributing to the successful negotiation of a $1.5 billion trade agreement between Mexico and the United States with accurate, culturally informed interpretation.

Education

B.A. in Interpretation & Translation (Minor in Linguistics) at Instituto Superior de Intérpretes y Traductores
January 11, 2030 - August 26, 2025
Court Interpreter Training Institute Program Certificate of Completion at National Center for Interpretation, University of Arizona
January 11, 2030 - August 26, 2025

Qualifications

Copyediting I | UC San Diego Extension
January 11, 2030 - August 26, 2025
C1 French Certification (DALF) | French Ministry of Education
January 11, 2030 - August 26, 2025
Diploma in Italian Language Studies | Education First
January 11, 2030 - August 26, 2025

Industry Experience

Government, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Education, Other