What are military jobs requiring language skills?

I've been studying foreign languages throughout high school and I'm considering using that in a military career. What kind of jobs in the military make use of language skills, and how competitive are they to get into?

There are several military roles where language skills can play a crucial part. Here are a few key positions you might want to explore:

1. Cryptologic Linguist: In this role you'd be responsible for identifying foreign communications using signals equipment. This might involve translating foreign languages and examining signals for vital information.

2. Military Intelligence Officer: In this capacity, you could use your language skills in the collection and interpretation of military intelligence.

3. Foreign Area Officer: You might work as a liaison or diplomat between the US military and local communities, often requiring proficient language skills and cultural understanding.

4. Psychological Operations Officer: Here language skills are key when developing and distributing propaganda to influence local populations.

5. Civil Affairs Officer: In this role, you'd be involved in the administration of civil-military operations, where you may deal with local residents, officials, and non-governmental entities in other countries.

Regarding competitiveness, keep in mind that these and other military positions can be quite competitive due to a number of factors. These might include the need for a top-secret clearance, the ability to pass the Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT), and oftentimes, specific physical fitness requirements. Potential candidates typically also need to show aptitude in other areas related to the role, such as problem-solving or strategic thinking.

Furthermore, the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center offers advanced language training to military enlistees, providing further opportunities to develop language expertise. The broad range of languages offered runs the gamut from commonly taught ones such as Spanish and French to less commonly taught languages like Pashto or Dari. A high score on the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) can qualify you for this training.

In summary, there are a variety of military roles that heavily rely on language skills. Given the specificity of the skills and aptitudes required, these roles can be quite competitive, but for someone with a strong interest in languages and a willingness to meet the challenge, they can be both personally rewarding and key to a successful military career.