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Combat Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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
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.
SURFACE MAINTENANCE MECHANIC

$28.94/hr

Other

Posted 23 days ago


United States Army rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 468 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for a Surface Maintenance Mechanic, Position Description Number D1194000 and is part of Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) of the Vermont Army National Guard.
*This position is located in Colchester, VT*
The announcement may close prior to end date if position is filled prior to end date.Qualifications:NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED: This is a Title 32 excepted service position that requires membership in the National Guard. Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform. Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment. Applicants who are not currently a member of the Vermont Army National Guard must be eligible for immediate membership and employment in the National Guard in the military grade listed in this announcement. If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact 1-800-GO-GUARD or visit NATIONALGUARD.COM/VT prior to applying for this position.
OPEN AREAS OF CONSIDERATION: AREA 1, 2, 3
Area I: All current On-board Permanent and Indefinite Dual Status 32 and Title 5 (Competitive and Excepted) Technicians (Tenure: 1-Career, 2-Conditional, 3-Indefinite) - Only those Vermont National Guard members who are in permanent or indefinite technician status as a result of being competitively hired within that National Guard component applying for a position within the component which they are currently employed.
Area II: All Members of the Vermont Army National Guard.
Area III: Currently assigned service members in other branches of the military outside of the VTNG, to include those assigned to Active Duty, Reserve or other state's National Guard.
Military Grades: Enlisted: PV1/E1-SFC/E7
MINIMUM REQUIREMENT: Experience or training which demonstrates knowledge of equipment to be able to do routine jobs, simple preventative maintenance tasks, and can use common tools and equipment in the line of work.
SPECAILIZED EXPERIENCE WG-5801-08:
Experience or training using common hand and power tools and a small variety of test and measurement devices to make mechanical repairs. Experience removing, adjusting, replacing, cleaning, and installing a variety of parts, components, and accessories. Experience which demonstrates a basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic theory applying to vehicles; and skill to replace, fit, install, and make adjustments. Experience demonstrating an understanding of the makeup and operation of the various individual systems maintained and their interrelationships. Experience reading and interpreting parts lists, manufactures' repair manuals, diagrams, and electrical schematics.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE WG-5801-10:
Experience or training leading to a thorough knowledge of the mechanical makeup, operation, and working relationships of complex systems, assemblies, and parts for a variety of combat, tactical, commercial, special purpose vehicles, and equipment. Ability to diagnose, repair, overhaul, and modify a variety of combat, tactical, commercial, special purpose vehicles, and equipment. Knowledge of electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, and other non-mechanical systems that have a functional relationship and effect on the operation of mechanical systems. Knowledge of hydraulic lifting, loading, turning, and positioning systems and their mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic controls. Basic knowledge of electronics, sufficient to identify and replace defective components, such as sensors, diodes, and circuit boards. Ability to repair or overhaul major components such as diesel, multi-fuel or gasoline engines, turbine engines, automatic and manual transmissions, drive line assemblies, electrical and electronic systems and accessories, fuel injection systems, and emission control systems.
Length of time is not of itself qualifying. Candidates' experience should be evaluated based on duties performed rather than strictly on the rank of the individual; however, established compatibility criteria/assignments must be followed. The applicant's record of experience and/or training must show possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to fully perform the duties of the position.
Your Qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of the following Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities:
--Knowledge of the mechanical makeup, operation, and working relationships of complex systems, assemblies, and parts for a variety of combat, tactical, commercial, special purpose vehicles and equipment.
-- Ability to diagnose, repair, overhaul, and modify a variety of combat, tactical, commercial, special purpose vehicles and equipment.
-- Knowledge of electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, and other non-mechanical systems that have a functional relationship and effect on the operation of mechanical systems.
-- Knowledge of hydraulic lifting, loading, turning, and positioning systems and their mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic controls.
-- Basic knowledge of electronics, sufficient to identify and replace defective components, such as sensors, diodes, and circuit boards.
-- Ability to repair or overhaul major components such as diesel, multi-fuel or gasoline engines, turbine engines, automatic and manual transmissions, drive line assemblies, electrical and electronic systems and accessories, fuel injection systems, and emission control systems.
-- Skill to use a wide variety of test and diagnostics equipment to perform fault isolation and conduct repair of combat, tactical, commercial, special purpose vehicles and equipment.
--Ability to operate and understand original equipment manufacturer computerized diagnostic equipment and embedded diagnostics.
-- Ability to utilize, interpret and apply parts list, manufacturer's repair manuals, technical manuals, diagrams, engineering drawings, diagnostic computer information, and schematics.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position.
- Ability to establish effective professional working relationships with coworkers and customers, contributing to a cooperative working environment and successful accomplishment of the mission.
-The duties and responsibilities of your job may significantly impact the environment. You are responsible to maintain awareness of your environmental responsibilities as dictated by legal and regulatory requirements, your organization, and its changing mission.
-This is not a permanent appointment.
-This is a Temporary appointment not to exceed 1 year.
-The incumbent will be separated at the expiration of the term of appointment.
Please be advised:
1. Specialized experience will be used to determine qualifications for the announced position.
2. An applicant's RESUME must provide, in detail, how they meet the specialized experience listed.
3. It must be documented with "from (mm/yy)" and "to (mm/yy)" dates and description of the specialized experience.
4. If education or a degree is required as part of the "Specialized Experience", you must include transcripts.
Do not copy the specialized experience qualifications word for word and place into your resume; you must describe your personal experience as it pertains to each statement.Education:There are no specific educational requirements for this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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