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Combat Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cornerstone Defense

Korean Interpreter

Germantown, MD · On-site

Interpreter Location: Germantown, MD *Clearance: *Active Secret or Top Secret needed to apply ... to combat our nation's toughest and most secure problems. If you are looking for a place to not ...

BAE Systems

Systems Admin I

Wallops Island, VA · On-site

$59K - $100K/yr

The center provides high-fidelity, platform-specific combat system suites with integrated sensors ... Experience interpreting technical manuals, system documentation, and Navy cybersecurity ...

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Combat Interpreter information

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$29.5K

$65.7K

$71K

How much do combat interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat interpreter in the United States is $65,716.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do military interpreters make?

Military interpreters typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and deployment assignments. Higher salaries are often associated with specialized language skills, security clearances, and active duty or contractor roles in combat zones or diplomatic settings.

How much do military linguists make?

Military linguists, including combat interpreters, typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and location. They may also receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, bonuses, and specialized training. Salaries can vary based on the branch of service and deployment status.

What is the difference between Combat Interpreter vs Military Translator?

AspectCombat InterpreterMilitary Translator
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, security clearance, interpretation certificationsLanguage proficiency, translation certifications, security clearance
Work EnvironmentOn the ground with military units, in combat zonesIn military offices, remote locations, or field settings
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense contractors, government agenciesMilitary, defense contractors, government agencies

Both Combat Interpreters and Military Translators require language skills, security clearances, and work within military or defense settings. The main difference lies in their roles: Combat Interpreters actively facilitate communication during operations, often in combat zones, while Military Translators focus on translating written documents or communications in more controlled environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Combat Interpreter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Combat Interpreter, you need fluency in relevant languages (such as Arabic, Pashto, Dari, etc.), strong listening and comprehension abilities, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with military communication protocols, secure radio systems, and sometimes security clearance or interpreter certifications are commonly required. Cultural sensitivity, emotional resilience, and effective interpersonal communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure accurate and secure communication in high-stress, mission-critical environments, directly impacting operational success and safety.

What is the highest paying interpreter job?

The highest paying interpreter jobs are often in specialized fields such as legal, medical, or technical interpreting, with court or legal interpreters typically earning the most due to the complexity and certification requirements. Experienced interpreters with advanced certifications and fluency in rare or in-demand languages can also command higher salaries, especially when working for government agencies or multinational corporations. Salary varies by location, experience, and industry, but top-tier legal and medical interpreters generally earn the highest wages in the field.

How much does an interpreter get paid?

The salary of a combat interpreter varies depending on experience, location, and employer, but they typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually. Military and government positions often offer additional benefits and allowances, and fluency in multiple languages can increase earning potential.

What are combat interpreters?

Combat interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between military personnel and local populations or allied forces in conflict zones by translating spoken and written language. They play a crucial role in ensuring accurate exchange of information during military operations, negotiations, and intelligence gathering. Combat interpreters often work in high-pressure, dangerous environments and must have a strong understanding of both languages and cultural nuances to prevent misunderstandings. Their contributions are vital for mission success, building trust, and ensuring the safety of all parties involved.

What are some common challenges faced by Combat Interpreters in the field?

Combat Interpreters often encounter high-pressure situations where accurate and timely communication is critical. They must quickly translate complex military terminology and cultural nuances, sometimes amid noisy, stressful, or even dangerous environments. Building trust with both military personnel and local populations is essential, and interpreters frequently need to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. Additionally, maintaining confidentiality and neutrality can be challenging but is crucial for mission success and personal safety.
More about Combat Interpreter jobs
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Combat Interpreter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combat Interpreter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,716 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Korean Interpreter

Cornerstone Defense

Germantown, MD • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

  • Location: Germantown, Maryland
  • Type: Contract
  • Job #3530

Title: Interpreter
Location: Germantown, MD
*Clearance: *Active Secret or Top Secret needed to apply *
Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government. Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission. Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation's toughest and most secure problems. If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don't look any further than Cornerstone Defense.
Benefits Overview :
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *
Job Summary:
Cornerstone Defense is looking for a Secret or Top Secret cleared individual to perform interpretation/translation in support of ROK military CWMD capability development. Our team conducts military capability studies and provides train, advise, and equip services on behalf of a USG client. We have a PMO in Seoul but work throughout ROK. Interpretation services would include consecutive (simultaneous capability preferred) interpretation at appropriate venues during workshops, briefings, and engagements to combined audiences including up to general officers and civilian representatives from ROK MND.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Provide translation and interpretation support services, as needed, for the activities outlined in this PWS, and as directed by the Project Officer or COR.
    • These activities include: technical discussions, negotiations, training materials, training/exercise events, working group meetings, site visits, and all other activities deemed relevant by the PO or COR.
  • All interpreters and translators are expected to reflect, at a minimum, abilities equivalent to the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) Interpretation Performance for Advanced Professional Performance plus Level 4+ (for descriptions refer to www.govtilr.org ).
  • Carefully follow DTRA's instructions, which will be provided by the COR or Project Officer after Task Order award, as to the preparation and format for translated documents.
  • Provide quality control and assurance of the translated materials, which must accurately convey the content, register, and nuances of source texts that contain difficult, abstract, idiomatic, highly technical, and/or colloquial writing.
  • Require some interpreters and translators to facilitate training and assessment engagements and translate classified material.

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