Kurdish Linguists

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Kurdish Linguist 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 Kurdish 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.)

• 3+ years of professional and recent translation and interpretation experience.

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

• Translation and/or interpretation degree is highly desired

• HLT experience a plus

• 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.

Travel OCONUS is a REQUIREMENT on this program. Candidate must be able to support the contract 24/7 when on travel. 

Original Posting:
December 9, 2025

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and 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.