This study takes an ergonomic perspective to discuss the mismatch between academic training and employers' expectations in the Chinese context. Drawing on information from 36 MA students who worked as translation interns before graduating from two leading Chinese universities, this article presents the latest developments in China's translation industry and discusses the main weaknesses of MA programmes in translation and interpreting. The article also proposes recommendations at institutional and policy levels with regard to ergonomics that may help improve career preparation for MA students. We hope this article attracts the attention of international scholars interested in conducting comparative studies on translation industries and policies in translation education in different national and regional contexts.