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Defense Language Institute Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO 45K SIGNING BONUS As a Foreign Language Specialist, you'll go to the Defense Language Institute (DLI) for language training. There you will learn how to speak, listen, and read in ...

Complete Defense Language Institute English Language Center (DLIELC) familiarization with the American Language Course (ALC) or Observer Professional Training. * Complete DLIELC's Instructor ...

TCO will ensure the utilization of established testing practices and curriculum in accordance with Defense Language Institute English Language Center (DLIELC) standards. General Tasks and ...

Ensure adherence to the Defense Language Institute English Language Center (DLIELC) standards. * Ensure there is an alternate Program Manager to act on behalf of the PM when required. Minimum ...

$40K - $55K/yr

Complete Defense Language Institute English Language Center (DLIELC) familiarization with the American Language Course (ALC) or Observer Professional Training. * Complete DLIELC's Instructor ...

Schedule the OPI with the Defense Language Institute, when applicable. * Complete personnel action requests (PARs) for individuals who qualify for foreign language proficiency pay. * Collaborate with ...

Interpreter

Washington, DC · On-site

$121K/yr

... the Defense Language Institute, Foreign Service Institute, or comparable training. The following are examples of work in the required language that may have provided the required abilities ...

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Defense Language Institute information

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$32K

$44.1K

$51K

How much do defense language institute jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense language institute in the United States is $44,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Defense Language Institute vs Military Linguist?

AspectDefense Language InstituteMilitary Linguist
CredentialsLanguage proficiency certifications, military trainingLanguage skills, military clearance, specialized training
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, language labs, military basesField operations, military bases, intelligence units
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Defense, military educationU.S. military branches, defense agencies

Defense Language Institute provides language education and certification, while Military Linguists apply those skills in operational settings. Both roles are integral to military language programs but differ in focus—training versus field application.

What cities are hiring for Defense Language Institute jobs? Cities with the most Defense Language Institute job openings:
What states have the most Defense Language Institute jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Language Institute jobs include:
Infographic showing various Defense Language Institute job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,079 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Foreign Language Specialist (35W)

Foreign Language Specialist (35W)

U.S. Army

Lebanon, PA • On-site

$23K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


United States Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 480 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO 45K SIGNING BONUS
As a Foreign Language Specialist, you’ll go to the Defense Language Institute (DLI) for language training. There you will learn how to speak, listen, and read in your target language. During your time at DLI you will also be immersed in the culture of your target language’s region. Upon graduation of language training at DLI, you will be eligible for an associate degree in foreign language. Foreign Language Specialists will be assessed and attend either 35M or 35P Advanced Individual Training.
Testing & Certifications:
  • 10 weeks of Basic Training (Paid).
  • 36-64 months of education at the Defense Foreign Language Institute required if Soldier is not fluent in a foreign language.
  • 85 or above on the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) (active duty only).
  • Requires enlistment into the United States Army or United States Army Reserve. This job is available for both.
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
  • Age: Between 17-35 years old.
  • Medical, Moral, Physical: Medically and physically capable, and in good moral standing.
  • Citizenship: A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card. (I-551)
  • Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.

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Industry

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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