Localization Specialist, Mandarin (Contractor)

Crazy Maple Studio; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Crazy Maple Studio in Sunnyvale, California, seeks a Localization Specialist to join its Content Operations team. This role involves translating and adapting scripts into English for the popular app ReelShort. Previous experience in the film or TV industry and proficiency in Mandarin are crucial for success.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and a strong understanding of cultural nuances. The position offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for creative collaboration.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in localization, translation, or adaptation within the film/TV industry.
• Native or near-native proficiency in Mandarin and English.
• Detail-oriented with a strong sense of quality.

Responsibilities

• Adapt Chinese scripts into English while maintaining tone and cultural nuances.
• Collaborate with team leads to ensure quality and accuracy of localized content.
• Conduct research on linguistic nuances for authenticity.

Skills

Translation

Cultural understanding

Communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Translation, Linguistics, Film Studies, or related field

Job description

Company Overview

Crazy Maple Studio is a fast-growing company based in the Bay Area and Los Angeles, focusing on mobile gaming, reading, and streaming. We are proud to have a global team that drives our innovation and success across diverse markets.

Our flagship platform, ReelShort, is the #1 vertical streaming app in the U.S., with over 5 million DAU, delivering bite‑sized episodic content that keeps viewers hooked. Other standout products include Chapters, where users shape immersive stories across drama, fantasy, and romance, and My Fiction, a platform for consuming and creating serialized romance.

We’re proud to be recognized as one of the Global Most Loved Workplaces 2025, reflecting our commitment to innovation, creativity, and an employee‑first culture.

Position Overview

We are looking for a passionate Localization Specialist to join our Content Operations team. As a Localization Specialist, you will play a vital role in translating and adapting scripts, books, and related content into English scripts for ReelShort. Experience in the film/TV show/screenwriting industry is preferred, and proficiency in Mandarin is required for this role.

Responsibilities

• Adapt Chinese scripts, books, and other content into English scripts while maintaining the original intent, tone, and cultural nuances.
• Collaborate closely with the team leads to ensure the quality and accuracy of localized content.
• Conduct research on cultural references, idioms, and linguistic nuances to ensure authenticity and relevance in the localization process.
• Provide feedback and suggestions for improving the localization workflow and processes.
• Work closely with writers, editors, and other stakeholders to ensure consistency and coherence in storytelling across different platforms.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in localization and interactive storytelling.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Translation, Linguistics, Film Studies, Screenwriting, or a related field.
• Proven experience in localization, translation, or adaptation within the film/TV show/screenwriting industry.
• Native or near-native proficiency in Mandarin Chinese and English is a plus.
• Strong understanding of cultural differences and nuances, particularly between Chinese and English-speaking audiences.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Detail-oriented with a strong sense of quality and accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Crazy Maple Studio, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.