What does a Language Specialist do?

Linguists perform a range of language interpretation and analysis duties, often translating information between two or more languages. They translate and interpret spoken and written communications, which may be complex or technical in content. They commonly work in military or educational settings, and may be translating information that is of a sensitive or confidential nature. They may also review transcriptions or other language-related records to verify their accuracy.

Linguists typically have at least a bachelor’s degree, although an equivalent level of relevant professional experience may be acceptable. They frequently have worked as a translator, interpreter, or in a similar role. They generally must be fluent in at least one other language in addition to their native language. Some roles may require security clearances and background checks.

What responsibilities are common for Language Specialist jobs?
  • Provide operational contract linguist support.
  • Provide general linguistic support and interpret during interviews, meetings, and conferences.
  • Translate and review foreign language documents. Identify and extract information components meeting military information requirement list criteria. Provide input to reports.
What are the typical qualifications for Language Specialist jobs?
  • Strong command of English language and good communication skills.
  • Demonstrated critical thinking and analytical abilities.
Education--
Work/Life Balance
3.7 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.4 ★
Avg. Experience2-4 years

How much does a Language Specialist make near United States?

Confident
$64,799 /yr
Total Pay
$61,195
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$3,604
 /yr

Additional Pay

$64,799

 / yr
$40K$104K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
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Language Specialist Career Path

Learn how to become a Language Specialist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Language Specialist

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
3%
2 - 4
58%
5 - 7
22%
8+
17%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Language Specialist Insights

Read what Language Specialist professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
LATokenLAToken
Cryptologic Language Analyst
Aug 6, 2021

“Hectic schedule and sometimes long working hours well this is not a major con for me.”

Integrity Business SolutionsIntegrity Business Solutions
Linguist
Aug 2, 2021

“I was not given sufficient training to do my job and had to pay for it myself.”

US NavyUS Navy
Cryptologic Language Analyst
Jun 11, 2022

“You can find the route you want to take in life and find amazing career opportunities.”

AccentureAccenture
German Language Specialist
Sep 2, 2023

“Good good good good good”

Argos TranslationsArgos Translations
Linguist
May 13, 2022

“life balance is possible but not obvious”

AccentureAccenture
Linguist
Feb 2, 2023

“Great team work and boos”

US Air ForceUS Air Force
Cryptologic Language Analyst
Jul 20, 2023

“Overseas pay was good at the time.”

QualitestQualitest
Search Language Specialist
Apr 30, 2022

“Good potential for career growth and internal promotion.”

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Language Specialist Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Language Specialist

The most similar professions to Language Specialist are:
  • Clinical Research Associate
  • Clinical Research Specialist
  • Research Coordinator
  • Clinical Research Coordinator

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Language Specialist Jobs