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Geospatial Linguist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Spanish Linguist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

This role is ideal for experienced linguists who can provide high-quality translation ... geospatial, legal / law, military, and narcotics. Pay Information The final salary may be ...

This role is ideal for experienced linguists who can provide high-quality translation ... geospatial, legal / law, military, and narcotics. Pay Information The final salary may be ...

Spanish Linguist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

This role is ideal for experienced linguists who can provide high-quality translation ... geospatial, legal / law, military, and narcotics. Pay Information The final salary may be ...

This role is ideal for experienced linguists who can provide high-quality translation ... geospatial, legal / law, military, and narcotics. Pay Information The final salary may be ...

Arabic Travel Linguist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$135K - $210K/yr

This role is ideal for experienced linguists who can provide high-quality translation ... geospatial, legal / law, military, and narcotics. Pay Information The final salary may be ...

Showing results 21-40

Geospatial Linguist information

See salary details

$52K

$73.4K

$95.5K

How much do geospatial linguist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for geospatial linguist in the United States is $73,373.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a geospatial linguist?

Geospatial linguists are professionals who combine language expertise with geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze and interpret language data in relation to specific locations. They may work on mapping linguistic diversity, tracking language usage patterns, or supporting government and military operations with location-based language analysis. Their work is important for understanding how language varies across regions, aiding in translation, and supporting decision-making that involves both language and geography.

How does a geospatial linguist typically collaborate with analysts and technology teams on mapping projects?

Geospatial Linguists play a crucial role in bridging language expertise with geospatial analysis. They often work closely with analysts to interpret and translate place names, cultural references, and local terminology found in maps and satellite imagery. Collaboration with technology teams is common, especially when integrating linguistic data into GIS (Geographic Information Systems) or developing language-specific search and tagging features. This teamwork ensures that spatial data is both accurate and culturally relevant, enhancing the quality of mapping projects and intelligence reports.

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

To thrive as a Geospatial Linguist, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in multiple languages, and a background in geography or linguistics, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems), mapping software, and language analysis tools is typically required, along with certifications in GIS or related fields. Excellent attention to detail, cultural awareness, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These capabilities enable accurate interpretation of linguistic data within geospatial contexts, supporting critical decision-making and effective information analysis.

What is the difference between Geospatial Linguist vs GIS Analyst?

AspectGeospatial LinguistGIS Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in linguistics, geography, or related field; language proficiency; GIS knowledgeBachelor's in geography, GIS, or related field; GIS certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, language interpretation, often in government or research settingsOffice-based, spatial data analysis, map creation, often in government, environmental, or urban planning sectors
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, defense, research institutionsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, environmental organizations

While both roles involve spatial data, a Geospatial Linguist specializes in language-related analysis within geospatial contexts, whereas a GIS Analyst focuses on spatial data management and mapping. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Geospatial Linguist jobs

What cities are hiring for Geospatial Linguist jobs?

Cities with the most Geospatial Linguist job openings:

What states have the most Geospatial Linguist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Geospatial Linguist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Geospatial Linguist jobs?

For Geospatial Linguist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Geospatial Linguist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,373 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Kurdish Linguist - Interpretation - Travel

Reston, VA โ€ข Remote

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Founded in 1989, SOSi is among the largest private, founder-owned technology and services integrators in the defense and government services industry. We deliver tailored solutions, tested leadership, and trusted results to enable national security missions worldwide.

Job Description

SOSi is seeking Kurdish (Sorani or Kurmanji) Linguists to provide interpretation in a travel capacity. In this role you will integrate into a client team to provide a full range of language support, including providing linguistic and cultural expertise in a faced-paced settings. Flexibility is required and 100% of work will be performed on a travel basis. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and collaborate and engage with client personnel to further the mission. This position is part-time on call based on travel requirements.

Essential Job Duties

  • Read, write, and speak Kurdish-Sorani or Kurdish-Kurmanji at a fluent or native level.
  • Provide consecutive translation/interpretation back and forth between Kurdish and English in a variety of settings, including conference settings and individual meetings.
  • Gist, summarize, and transcribe Kurdish from printed, electronic, or audio/visual material into clear, understandable, and idiomatically correct English.
  • Leverage knowledge of culture, media, technology, politics, and military issues to provide high quality translations.
  • Use a variety of computer programs including Microsoft Office products and SharePoint. Must be able to learn new tools and applications specific to the customer.
  • Part-time on call work to support travel: CONUS, OCONUS, and war/conflict zones.
Qualifications
  • The federal government requires all linguists on this contract to obtain and maintain a security clearance. This security clearance requires U.S. citizenship.
  • Prior to beginning work, candidates must complete the process for a fully adjudicated TS/SCI (with poly) security clearance. SOSi will sponsor qualified candidates for clearance.
  • Bachelor's Degree completed in the United States OR in country of language skill.
  • Minimum of three years of experience in translation support.
  • Candidates must possess native or near native competency in Kurdish. Competency will be determined by standardized language exams which must be completed as part of the application process. Must score a minimum of 2+ on Kurdish Interpretation exam and a minimum of 4/4/4 on Speaking/Listening/Reading exam.
  • Candidate must be familiar with the culture, media, and linguistic nuance of Kurdish.
  • Candidates must possess excellent English written and verbal communication skills. Competency will be determined by a standardized exam which must be completed as start of the application process.
  • Experience in workflow management and quality control to ensure all requests are triaged and products are properly gisted/summarized and edited.
  • Experience with word processing (including typing at least 45 words/minute), proficiency with Microsoft Office, and ability to learn additional programs and applications as needed.
  • Candidates will be required to maintain a passport and secure medical clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Existing, in-scope TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph.
  • Expertise or training related to counter-proliferation, counter-terrorism, cyber, economics, geospatial, law, military, narcotics topics.
  • Experience with media monitoring.
  • Experience writing reports and terminology management for consistency translations.
  • Degree in linguistics, international affairs, or foreign languages.
  • Experience in the US intelligence, military, cryptographic, or law enforcement communities.
Additional Information

Work Environment

  • All work will be performed during TDYs. No possibility of remote work. Work in more than one location may be required, including CONUS, OCONUS and war/conflict zones.
  • Additional qualifications, including to carry a firearm may be required.
  • Core hours are 9AM to 2PM, flexibility for night and weekend coverage during travel required.
  • Some travel coverage may require extended hours, up to 11 hours per day, and non-traditional schedules, including nights and weekends.

Working at SOSi

All interested individuals will receive consideration and will not be discriminated against for any reason.