Arabic & Kurdish (Sorani, Kurmanji)

About the role

We are seeking a highly skilled Arabic & 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.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional-level linguistic support across translation, interpretation, transcription, and Gisting including but not limited to:
• Translation
• 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.

Requirements

• Must be fully cleared (Willing to sponsor if candidate hasTS/SCI with CI)
• Candidates must also be eligible for a security clearance upgrade, (must be fully adjudicated before work begins)
• 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 the Senior 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

Benefits

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

Why Leidos?

At Leidos, we're not just offering a job — we're offering a mission. As part of the Leidos Intel Sector, you'll contribute to a safer world by enabling critical intelligence efforts with AI, machine learning, and digital modernization, Mission Software Systems. From safeguarding ports and borders to anticipating geopolitical instability years in advance, our linguists play an integral role in shaping global security.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range $92,300.00 - $166,850.00

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025.

Securing Your Data

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work).

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.