Somali LinguistWe are currently seeking a
highly skilled Somali 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 Somali 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.
Security Clearance:- 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.
Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree and 4 - 8 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 2 - 6 years of prior relevant experience. (Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.)
- Translation and/or interpretation degree is highly desired
- HLT experience a plus
- Must successfully complete a Leidos-administered language proficiency test or equivalent at the Primary level or higher.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and basic online research.
- All candidates must take and pass language tests administered by LEIDOS/an accepted commercial testing vendor.
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.
Additional Information:- Attending and passing all sponsor related training is a requirement of employment.
- All Candidates must take and successfully pass a medical laboratory and/or physical screen as required by the program.
- Successfully completing the required weapons training.
- The job is based in Reston, VA, and may involve one or few overseas trips.
Original Posting:June 6, 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 $73,450.00 - $132,775.00
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.
