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Air Force Translator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$90K - $140K/yr

Summary The Air Force offers qualified applicants opportunities to be hired for certain occupations ... You are not just a "data cruncher"; you are a strategic translator who can turn complex ...

... Air Force Life Cycle Management Center WAM (AFLCMC/WAM) directorate, F-16 division at Wright ... Support translation of customer requirements into acquisition program requirements and support ...

$90K/yr

The Air Force offers qualified applicants opportunities to be hired for certain occupations covered ... You are not just a "data cruncher"; you are a strategic translator who can turn complex ...

Structures Engineer, Senior

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Understand and execute Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 62-6, USAF Airworthiness , associated AFIs ... the translation of requirements into prime contractor engineering documents (and procedures to ...

Structures Engineer, Senior

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$101K - $137K/yr

Understand and execute Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 62-6, USAF Airworthiness , associated AFIs ... the translation of requirements into prime contractor engineering documents (and procedures to ...

Structures Engineer, Senior

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$139K - $160K/yr

Understand and execute Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 62-6, USAF Airworthiness, associated AFIs ... the translation of requirements into prime contractor engineering documents (and procedures to ...

Technical Program Manager, Strategy

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Simplesense is a non-traditional defense contractor and prime on the Air Force's Installation ... Demonstrated translation between traditional waterfall and agile models * T-shaped person ...

New

Hickam Air Force Base, HI University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) seeks adjunct faculty to ... If selected, candidates with international degrees may be required to submit translation/ degree ...

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Showing results 1-20

Air Force Translator information

See salary details

$27.5K

$57.2K

$87.5K

How much do air force translator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for air force translator in the United States is $57,200.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Air Force Translator typically collaborate with intelligence and operations teams?

Air Force Translators work closely with intelligence analysts, operations personnel, and sometimes field units to provide timely and accurate translations of foreign language materials. They may be tasked with interpreting live communications, translating documents, and ensuring that critical information is conveyed clearly and securely. Collaboration often involves participating in briefings, supporting mission planning, and maintaining confidentiality when handling sensitive data. This teamwork is essential to ensure that language barriers do not hinder mission success and that all information is shared efficiently across departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Force Translator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Force Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least one foreign language, strong listening and reading comprehension skills, and typically a relevant degree or Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT) certification. Familiarity with military communication systems, translation software, and secure information handling procedures is essential. Exceptional attention to detail, cultural awareness, and the ability to work under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate, secure, and contextually appropriate communication, which is critical for operational effectiveness and mission success.

What are Air Force Translators?

Air Force Translators are specialized personnel responsible for converting spoken or written material from one language to another to support military operations. They play a vital role in intelligence gathering, communication with foreign partners, and ensuring accurate information exchange. These translators may work with documents, live conversations, or intercepted communications, and their work often supports national security objectives. In addition to language skills, Air Force Translators are trained in military protocols, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity.

Do Air Force linguists get deployed?

Yes, Air Force linguists are often deployed to support military operations, intelligence missions, and international collaborations. Deployment durations and locations vary based on mission needs and individual assignments, and they typically require security clearances and language proficiency certifications.

How to become an Air Force linguist?

To become an Air Force linguist, candidates must meet specific language proficiency requirements, typically pass the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) test, and complete basic military training. After enlistment, they attend specialized language training at the Defense Language Institute or other designated schools, and must maintain language skills through ongoing practice and evaluations.

How much do Air Force translators make?

Air Force translators, also known as linguists, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and location. They may also receive additional benefits such as housing allowances and special pay for language proficiency and deployment.

What is the difference between Air Force Translator vs Air Force Interpreter?

AspectAir Force TranslatorAir Force Interpreter
Primary RoleTranslates written documents and materialsProvides real-time spoken language interpretation
Work EnvironmentOffices, document review, and translation projectsConversations, briefings, and live events
Required SkillsStrong writing, reading, and language proficiencyExcellent listening and speaking skills
CertificationsLanguage proficiency tests, security clearanceLanguage proficiency tests, security clearance

While both roles require language skills and security clearance, Air Force Translators focus on written translations, whereas Air Force Interpreters provide real-time spoken language interpretation. Both are essential for communication in military operations, but they differ in their primary tasks and work settings.

What Air Force jobs translate best to civilian jobs?

Air Force translator roles, such as linguists or interpreters, translate well to civilian careers in translation, interpretation, intelligence analysis, and international relations. These jobs require language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and security clearances, which are highly valued in government agencies, defense contractors, and multinational companies.
What states have the most Air Force Translator jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Force Translator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Air Force Translator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,200 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST -- DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY

Department of the Air Force - Agency Wide

On-site, Remote

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Air Force offers qualified applicants opportunities to be hired for certain occupations covered by Direct Hire Authorities (DHA). The use of DHA is a fast-track method of hiring applicants from the public with no prior federal status using a non-traditional method of recruitment.
To find additional information on "What Is DHA" and to view and/or apply to current DHA opportunities listed on Air Force Civilian Service's "Direct Hire Job Board", please click here.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Performs complete studies of limited scope or portions of larger projects, modifying/adapting techniques to fit situations, some requiring innovative approaches.
  • Utilizes scientific inquiry in the development of mathematical models and computer programs to evaluate and predict the ability to support assigned projects, studies, or problems.
  • Provides technical guidance, advisory support, and assistance. Performs studies/evaluations on an individual basis or as a team member responsible for completing defined portions of an overall work effort.
  • Provides technical guidance, advisory support, and assistance. Performs studies/evaluations on an individual basis or as a team member responsible for completing defined portions of an overall work effort.
  • Accomplishes professional development and maintains technical proficiency through professional interaction with technical and professional societies, associations, academia, symposia, contractors, research and development (RandD) organizations.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Telework may be authorized.
  • Security clearance requirements are based upon actual position being filled.
  • Locations are not negotiable. The actual duty locations available may be located on the Air Force Civilian Service website.
  • Random drug testing may be required depending upon the position being filled.
  • Supervisory requirements may be required depending upon the position being filled.
  • Promotion potential may be authorized depending upon position being filled.
  • For additional information on direct hire opportunities with the Air Force please go to https://afciviliancareers.com/find-a-job/
  • Full/part-time employees occupying direct childcare positions are eligible for discounts IAW DAF AFSVC/CC Memo, 30 Sep 22; first child 100% / each additional child 25%. Other assigned CYP and FCC personnel are eligible for 25% discount.
  • This Job Opportunity Announcement (JOA) will be used to form a pool of qualified applicants who will be considered for direct hire vacancies as they become available.
  • Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1, 2, or 3-year probationary OR trial period.
  • Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
  • Has education requirements
  • Obtain and maintain a security clearance
  • May be required to travel to perform temporary duty
  • May have extended/other than normal duty hours

Qualifications
For additional information on direct hire opportunities with the Air Force please click here.
Ideal Candidate:

Individuals won't just inherit models; you will originate new methodologies. Will need the quantitative mastery to apply standard and advanced operations research techniques to produce explicit, actionable findings. You will need to design robust data collection techniques, pulling from fragmented sources to feed your simulations. Participate in, and often lead, multidisciplinary study teams, guiding projects from initial concept to final execution. You are not just a "data cruncher"; you are a strategic translator who can turn complex mathematical simulations into actionable leadership decisions. Ideal candidate will need the ability to take a highly ambiguous leadership questions (e.g., "How do we optimize acquisition funding to improve warfighter readiness?"), design methodologies and execute studies, and translate it into plain-language briefs for senior military/civilian leadership.
Basic Requirements:
Degree: in operations research; or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Professional knowledge of a wide range of complex methods and techniques used in operations research studies to recommend those suitable for producing explicit
findings and discriminating evaluations.
Professional knowledge of and skill in applying and adapting standard approaches to gather, analyze, and evaluate information concerning complex processes,
operations, or questions typified by conventional relationships.
Skill in articulating and negotiating complex issues.
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with customers, information sources, and project team members.
Ability to design, build, and use models and simulation techniques.
Ability to use standard-type models to simulate real-world environments.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES (KSA):
1. Knowledge of a wide range of methods and techniques used in operations research studies and possession of analytical abilities.
2. Knowledge of quantitative techniques and methods used to develop, adapt, modify, and apply models to resolve problems or define and clarify alternative solutions.
3. Ability to participate in study teams; originate new ideas, projects, and methodologies; and execute projects and/or studies within established financial and/or time
constraints.
4. Ability to develop and utilize appropriate data collection techniques.
5. Ability to design, build, and use models and simulation techniques.
6. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; negotiate complex issues; and maintain good working relations.
Education
Degree: in operations research; or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
The primary requirement of operations research work is competence in the rigorous methods of scientific inquiry and analysis rather than in the subject matter of the problem. Therefore, applicants should have sufficient knowledge of applied mathematics to understand and use the fundamental concepts and techniques of operations research methods of analysis. In addition, some positions may require knowledge of a specific subject area.
Courses acceptable for qualifying for operations research positions may have been taken in departments other than Operations Research, e.g., Engineering (usually Industrial Engineering), Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, or Management Science.
The following are illustrative of acceptable courses: optimization; mathematical modeling; queueing theory; engineering; physics (except descriptive or survey courses); econometrics; psychometrics; biometrics; experimental psychology; physical chemistry; industrial process analysis; managerial economics; computer science; measurement for management; mathematical models in social phenomena; and courses that involved application of operations research techniques and methodologies to problems of management, marketing, systems design, and other specialized fields; or other comparable quantitative analysis courses for which college-level mathematics or statistics is a prerequisite. Courses in theory of probability and statistics are highly desirable, but are not specified as minimum educational requirements because to do so would possibly exclude some applicants who would otherwise be well qualified.
Additional information
Please note: Positions in this field/series may or may not be available, depending on current manning. For the most up-to-date notifications on available positions, we recommend candidates subscribe and complete their profile here, indicating their position and location preferences.
Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.