Are There Translator Roles in the Military?

I'm thinking about joining the military and I'm really good with languages. What kind of translator jobs are available in the military and what skills or qualifications would I need?

Indeed, the United States Military has numerous roles that specifically include translation or language expertise. The roles may differ slightly across the branches, but all provide vital services.

A Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) found in several branches, including the Army and the Marines, is the Cryptologic Linguist. These individuals identify foreign communications using signals equipment and translate, transcribe, or produce summaries. They also perform analysis and reporting of translated foreign language source materials. Knowledge of a specific foreign language is required, and depending on the language, you may be eligible for a foreign language proficiency bonus.

The Navy has a similar role known as Cryptologic Technician Interpretive, which requires translating and interpreting foreign language communications data.

The Air Force employs Cryptologic Language Analysts who intercept and analyze foreign language communications. These roles often require top-secret security clearances.

One salient point to remember is that these roles generally require passing the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) or the Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT). The DLAB is used to assess your ability to learn a foreign language, particularly the less commonly taught languages critical to the DoD. The DLPT is typically used to assess your proficiency in a foreign language you already know.

You would also typically undergo extensive training at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC) in Monterey, California. Courses here can last between 26 and 64 weeks, depending on the difficulty of the language.

Finally, keep in mind that aside from language skills, physical fitness and meeting other eligibility criteria of the specific military branch you are interested in are also important. Thus, being ‘good with languages’ is just one part of a bigger set of criteria that will qualify you for these roles.