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Linguist Translator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Korean Linguist/Translator

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Korean Linguist/Translator Make a Global Impact - Join the Mission at Leidos Are you ready to apply your linguistic expertise to meaningful work that directly supports national security? At Leidos ...

Khmer Linguist/Translator

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Khmer Linguist/Translator Make a Global Impact - Join the Mission at Leidos Are you ready to apply your linguistic expertise to meaningful work that directly supports national security? At Leidos ...

Khmer Linguist/Translator

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Khmer Linguist/Translator Make a Global Impact - Join the Mission at Leidos Are you ready to apply your linguistic expertise to meaningful work that directly supports national security? At Leidos ...

Korean Linguist/Translator

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Korean Linguist/Translator Make a Global Impact - Join the Mission at Leidos Are you ready to apply your linguistic expertise to meaningful work that directly supports national security? At Leidos ...

Chechen Translator/Linguist

Reston, VA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Chechen Linguist/Translator Make a Global Impact - Join the Mission at Leidos Are you ready to apply your linguistic expertise to meaningful work that directly supports national security? At Leidos ...

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Linguist Translator information

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$27.5K

$57.2K

$87.5K

How much do linguist translator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for linguist 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.

What are some common challenges faced by Linguist Translators when working on complex projects with tight deadlines?

Linguist Translators often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy and nuance when translating highly technical or culturally sensitive content, especially under tight deadlines. Managing time efficiently while ensuring quality can be demanding, as projects may require extensive research and collaboration with subject matter experts. Additionally, aligning with the expectations of clients or project managers and adapting to different linguistic styles or terminologies can add to the complexity. Successful translators typically develop strong organizational skills and establish effective communication channels with their teams to overcome these obstacles.

Can a linguist work as a translator?

A linguist can work as a translator if they have proficiency in at least two languages and relevant translation skills. Many linguists transition into translation roles, often requiring certification or experience with translation tools. Success depends on language pair expertise and understanding of cultural context.

What is the highest paying translator job?

The highest paying translator jobs are often in specialized fields such as legal, medical, or technical translation, especially for rare or in-demand languages. Senior translators with extensive experience, certifications, and proficiency in multiple languages can earn six-figure salaries, particularly when working as freelancers or for multinational corporations.

What are linguist translators?

Linguist translators are language professionals who specialize in converting written or spoken content from one language to another while preserving meaning, tone, and context. They possess deep knowledge of the source and target languages as well as cultural nuances, enabling them to provide accurate and effective translations. In addition to translating texts, linguist translators may also localize content, proofread, and ensure cross-cultural communication is clear and appropriate.

Are translators losing jobs to AI?

Linguist translators are increasingly using AI tools to assist with translation tasks, but AI generally complements rather than replaces human translators. Skilled translators with expertise in specialized fields and cultural nuances remain in demand, as AI may struggle with context, idioms, and accuracy in complex texts.

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

To thrive as a Linguist Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, a deep understanding of grammar and syntax, and preferably a degree in linguistics, translation, or a related field. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, terminology management systems, and sometimes industry-specific certifications (like ATA certification) is highly valuable. Exceptional attention to detail, cultural awareness, and strong communication skills help set outstanding translators apart. These competencies ensure accurate, culturally sensitive translations and effective communication across languages, which are critical for global collaboration and information exchange.

What is a linguist translator?

A linguist translator is a professional who converts written or spoken content from one language to another, ensuring accuracy and cultural appropriateness. They often work with language tools, have strong language proficiency, and may hold certifications such as the ATA certification or a degree in translation or linguistics.

What is the difference between Linguist Translator vs Interpreter?

AspectLinguist TranslatorInterpreter
CredentialsLanguage degrees, translation certifications (e.g., ATA)Language proficiency, interpretation certifications (e.g., CI, CT)
Work EnvironmentOffices, remote work, translation agenciesConferences, meetings, live events
Industry UsagePublishing, localization, legal, medical translationDiplomatic, legal, healthcare, business negotiations

While both roles require strong language skills and certifications, Linguist Translators primarily work on written content in controlled environments, whereas Interpreters facilitate real-time spoken communication in dynamic settings. Their skills are complementary but serve different communication needs.

More about Linguist Translator jobs
What states have the most Linguist Translator jobs? States with the most job openings for Linguist Translator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Linguist Translator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,200 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Korean Linguist/Translator

Korean Linguist/Translator

Leidos

Reston, VA • On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

Korean Linguist/Translator

Make a Global Impact - Join the Mission at Leidos

Are you ready to apply your linguistic expertise to meaningful work that directly supports national security? At Leidos, we bring together innovative minds, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to excellence to solve the world's toughest challenges. Join a team where your contributions truly matter, and where you'll have the resources and support to thrive professionally and personally. Leidos will sponsor and upgrade security clearances for eligible candidates.

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Korean Linguist/Translator to join our mission-driven team. This position requires a language professional capable of performing a wide range of complex linguistic tasks with precision and cultural insight.

What You'll Do:

You will provide professional-level linguistic support across translation, interpretation, transcription, and Gisting including but not limited to:

Translation

  • Accurately translate materials (both digital and hard copy) from Korean into English and vice versa.

  • Capture subtle nuances, cultural references, and abstract concepts with contextual accuracy.

  • Capture geopolitical, regional, ethnic, and cultural references effectively.

  • Use terminology and expression consistent with subject matter norms in the target language.

Interpretation

  • Provide consecutive interpretation; simultaneous interpretation may occasionally be required.

  • Maintain high fidelity and fluency, demonstrating understanding of regional dialects and cultural context.

Transcription

  • Listen to audio or review internet-based content and transcribe accurately and efficiently.

  • Produce high-quality English-language reports based on audio/visual materials.

  • Demonstrate nuanced understanding of dialectical variations.

Gisting and Summarization

  • Identify and summarize key facts and abstract concepts accurately.

  • Prioritize and extract critical information from large datasets.

  • Use reference materials effectively to support quality output.

What You Bring:

  • No clearance required to apply.

  • Able to obtain a TS/SCI clearance with polygraph (must be fully adjudicated before work begins). Leidos will sponsor candidates after passing all the required language tests.

  • Bachelor's degree with 8 - 12 years of relevant experience OR Master's degree with 6-10 years of related experience. (Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.)

  • Translation and/or interpretation degree is highly desired

  • 3+ years of professional and recent translation, transcription, and/or interpretation experience

  • Must successfully complete a Leidos-administered language proficiency test or equivalent at the Senior level or higher.

  • HLT experience a plus

  • Must successfully complete a Leidos-administered language proficiency test or equivalent at the Senior level or higher.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and basic online research.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in both English and target languages.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience supporting contingency operations as a deployed linguist.

  • Familiarity with the U.S. Intelligence Community, military operations, or law enforcement environments.

  • Ability to effectively brief and communicate findings to various stakeholders.

  • Proficiency in multiple languages is a strong asset.

Why Leidos?

At Leidos, we're not just offering a job - we're offering a mission. As part of the Leidos Intel Sector, you'll contribute to a safer world by enabling critical intelligence efforts with AI, machine learning, and digital modernization, Mission Software Systems. From safeguarding ports and borders to anticipating geopolitical instability years in advance, our linguists play an integral role in shaping global security.

We value innovation, collaboration, and integrity - and we are looking for people who are driven to make a difference.

Ready to Elevate Your Career?

If you're a passionate linguist ready to support impactful work on a global scale, we encourage you to apply today. Your greatest work is ahead.

At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that provide them with an opportunity to thrive, professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business. We're excited to learn more about you, apply today!

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:August 4, 2025

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $92,300.00 - $166,850.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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