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Political Translator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Spanish Linguist

Key West, FL · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

... translation, transcription, and interpretation of intelligence-related materials. Translate and interpret a wide range of content, including legal, technical, military, political, scientific, and ...

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Spanish Linguist

Key West, FL · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

... translation, transcription, and interpretation of intelligence-related materials. Translate and interpret a wide range of content, including legal, technical, military, political, scientific, and ...

New

Be Seen First

Spanish Linguist

Key West, FL · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

... translation, transcription, and interpretation of intelligence-related materials. Translate and interpret a wide range of content, including legal, technical, military, political, scientific, and ...

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Political Translator information

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$12

$25

$40

How much do political translator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for political translator in the United States is $25.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Political Translator vs Diplomatic Interpreter?

AspectPolitical TranslatorDiplomatic Interpreter
CredentialsLanguage proficiency, translation certificationsLanguage proficiency, interpretation certifications, diplomatic training
Work EnvironmentOffices, translation agencies, remote workEmbassies, international organizations, diplomatic events
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, NGOs, translation firmsEmbassies, consulates, international bodies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding translation roles in politicsUnderstanding interpretation roles in diplomacy

While both Political Translators and Diplomatic Interpreters work with political content, Political Translators focus on translating written political documents, reports, and policy texts. Diplomatic Interpreters facilitate spoken communication during diplomatic meetings and events. The roles overlap in language skills and industry usage, but differ mainly in the mode of communication (written vs. spoken) and work environment.

What are political translators?

Political translators are professionals who specialize in translating political documents, speeches, debates, and other materials from one language to another. Their work ensures that complex political ideas, policies, and discussions are accurately conveyed across languages and cultures. Political translators must have a strong understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as knowledge of political terminology, current affairs, and cultural nuances. Their role is crucial in international diplomacy, governmental communications, and global media reporting.

How do you become an interpreter for the US government?

To become a US government interpreter, candidates typically need fluency in at least two languages, relevant education or certification such as the Federal Court Interpreter Certification, and security clearance. Applicants often start by applying through federal agencies like the Department of State or the Department of Homeland Security and may need to pass language proficiency tests and background checks.

What are some common challenges faced by political translators when working in high-stakes environments?

Political translators often encounter challenges such as interpreting nuanced language, idioms, and culturally loaded terms that may not have direct equivalents in the target language. They must ensure accuracy while maintaining the intended tone and political sensitivity, especially during live events or negotiations where timely and precise communication is crucial. Additionally, they may work under tight deadlines and with confidential or sensitive information, requiring a high level of discretion and professionalism. Collaborating effectively with diplomats, officials, and subject-matter experts is also essential to prevent miscommunication.

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

To thrive as a Political Translator, you need advanced proficiency in at least two languages, a deep understanding of political terminology, and often a degree in translation, linguistics, or a related field. Familiarity with computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools and knowledge of international organizations' protocols are typically required. Strong soft skills include cultural sensitivity, discretion, and the ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines. These skills ensure accurate and nuanced translations of sensitive political material, facilitating clear communication and mutual understanding between stakeholders.
Infographic showing various Political Translator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,349 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Linguist (FARSI) and Iranian Cultural Advisor - Camp Xiphos, Jordan

Linguist (FARSI) and Iranian Cultural Advisor - Camp Xiphos, Jordan

Peraton

Apo, AE

$33.25 - $35.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 203 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is currently hiring a cleared TS/SCI cleared CAT III FARSI Linguist and Cultural Advisor

Location: On-site, Camp Xiphos, Jordan, Secure US Military Compound.

  • The position is an unaccompanied one-year assignment that can be extended by the customer and if elected by the individual chosen to provide support. Shift work may be required.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Provide Subject Matter Expertise (SME) on Iranian religious, ethnic groups and influential moderate voices.
    • SME is required to have an expert understanding Iranian social media, political, current regime, and cultural, religious, and ethnic landscape in its effort to counter extremist activities.
  • Provide support to key leader engagements events conducted in the USCENTCOM AOR with relevant US an allied partners (Remotely).
  • Translate, interpret and analyze oral and written material such as classified reports, data, briefings and conversations. Provide translation in written and/or oral form.
  • Provide assessments, transcription, translation, interpretation, cultural advisement, and media analysis services to ensure actionable data and products are developed and processed quickly and accurately.
  • Provide written translations of source texts in one language into another language, as identified above, with the meaning and intent of the original text (Translations).
  • Translator will:
    • (1) read and comprehend the languages
    • (2) write comprehensibly in one of the source languages
    • (3) choose the equivalent expression in the Source language that both fully conveys and best matches the meaning intended in the source language (referred to as congruity judgment)
  • As an Interpreter, have a command of both of the languages (FARSI/English).
  • Must be able to:
    • (1) comprehend both the source language and English as spoken and written
    • (2) speak both of these languages
    • (3) choose an expression in English that fully conveys and best matches the meaning of the source language
    • (4) have familiarity with the cultural context of both languages
    • (5) have knowledge of terminology in specialized fields
    • (6) research in source (Native) languages and write a comprehensive command level information paper
  • SME shall possess detailed knowledge of the operating environment to include Joint, Combined doctrine as well as Iranian laws and governance.
  • As needed, the SME shall participate in USCENTCOM, Interagency and Coalitions working groups, and serve as the Operational Iranian Cultural advisor expertise.
  • Be prepared to work extended work hours.
  • Linguists may be required to complete an annual evaluation and retesting process to determine eligibility for possible extension of services required.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Must possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Political Science, International Studies, Anthropology, Communication or a related field from an accredited and reputable institution and 8 years of relevant experience. An additional 4 years experience will be considered in lieu of degree. 
  • Must be recognized as a Subject Matter Expert in understanding Iranian current culture, social media, political and regime influences, religious, ethnic groups and influential moderate voices and ethnic landscape in its effort to counter extremist activities
  • Must have a minimum of 5 years prior experience working in support of U.S. Armed Forces or U.S. government agencies.
  • Must have a minimum of 4/4/4/ scores or higher in testing scores both in English and a 5/5/5/ in FARSI Dialect.
  • Must be willing to deploy for periods of 180 - 365 days in support of US Forces (Duty Location Camp Xiphos, Jordan).
  • Must be able to demonstrate the following abilities:
    • Objective, Unbiased, & Logical cultural advisement.
    • Must be able to follow orderly and sequential systematic procedures and guidelines.
    • Provide foreign language interpretation, translation, transliteration & transcription, document exploitation (DOCEX) services
    • Provide written and verbal translation of various types of media from target language to source language while maintaining congruity in judgment.
    • Must possess excellent listening skills with ability to pay attention to minute details.
    • Must be comfortable providing presentations and working with small and large groups.
    • In depth cultural understanding of customs, symbolism, mannerisms, traditions of various ethnic groups residing throughout the CENTCOM AOR
    • Demonstrated capability to work with Microsoft Office applications, i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • U.S. Passport with at least 1 year remaining before expiration.
  • Active Secret with the ability to obtain/maintain Secret security clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI 
  • Able to meet requirements of a Jordanian Visa.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with Information Operations/ MISO units in Middle East/SWA Area of Operations.
  • Language ability in another required language; DARI, PASHTO, or ARABIC at the same levels.
  • Native Iranian Heritage with recent Iran residence or travel.
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$112,000 - $179,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

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At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017