How to find work as a translator or proofreader

How does one go about finding work as a translator or proofreader (German to English)?

I am looking for small projects in order to earn some cash on the side. Although I have not been trained as a translator/Dolmetscher, I have lots of experience, particularly in translating scientific texts (journal articles), texts dealing with IT topics (instruction manuals, online courses), websites, memoirs, and letters. I've lived in Germany for 10 years and speak the language fluently.

Can anyone give me some tips about how to procure some work in this area and the going rate for translators with my qualifications?

Try the translator meetup.

Thanks, maybe I will... so, you welcome people with no current projects who are looking for work?

Well, I won't be there.

They welcome anyone who will buy them beer or wine

Hm, if I were able to buy them beer or wine, I wouldn't be looking for extra cash... Maybe if I get myself a 150 Euro/hour translating deal, I'll buy rounds all night

See also:
Pursuing a career in freelance translating
What fees to charge for translation work

If you do, perhaps you can pass on the info?

I once read that SAP was looking for such people for their technical documentation department. I just saw it by chance while browsing the net for something else but surely, you could check out websites of such companies. Publishers could be another source of freelance work.

It's a very competitive market and you have to be fast to earn good money as a freelancer. A translation company I know of called 'Wohanka und Kollegen' are looking for English mother tongues.

Find something else to do - too much competition

That's the spirit! Not.