Linguist - (Spanish Mexican)
About the role
Our Linguists perform real-time and/or recorded transcription from Spanish into English to support sensitive law enforcement work. They capture accurate, court-ready written products; identify, decode, and document colloquialisms, slang, and coded language; and extract pertinent information to communicate effectively with law enforcement personnel. The ideal candidate will be client-facing with strong interpersonal and professional communication skills, able to represent the program in a professional manner. Preference will be given to a seasoned, highly experienced linguist who can work independently and maintain the highest standards of accuracy and professionalism.
Locations: Tucson, AZ; Los Angeles, CA; Phoenix, AZ; Chicago, IL; Detroit, MI; Rancho Cordova, CA; San Antonio, TX. Security clearance: Public Trust (or ability to obtain).
Responsibilities
- Listen to live or recorded communications in Spanish and produce verbal and written synopses and transcriptions and translations as required by the project.
- Communicate pertinent information to the Client (law enforcement personnel) in a timely manner during.
- Build and maintain a master list of slang terms and codes used by a group or organization for the duration of the project or case.
- Build and maintain players list by group or organization for the duration of each project or case.
- Build and maintain a voice library throughout the project.
- Transcribe and translate pertinent recorded audio files and documents, producing court-ready (accurate, clearly formatted, and complete) transcriptions per project standards.
- Use project reference tools and materials to ensure consistency and accuracy.
- Operate specialized government-provided software and equipment (e.g., JSI voice box, Pen-Link, Comverse, Cellebrite).
- Ability to transcribe and translate a minimum of 18-22 minutes of recorded audio files in an 8‑hour shift.
- Maintain and submit daily productivity log.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum one (1) year of translation experience in the required language.
- Knowledge of Spanish colloquialisms, slang terms, and regional expressions.
- Familiarity with SMS shorthand, social media terminology, and web chat communications.
- Excellent verbal and written skills, including grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
- Must score 90% or higher on all APOLLO assessments.
- English and Spanish proficiency at or above a Level 3 in Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.
- Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work effectively under pressure.
- Strong interpersonal and professional communication skills for client-facing interactions.
- Must type at least 45 words per minute.
- Preferred Qualification: Prior experience performing similar linguist work in a comparable environment.
Pay
Hourly: $28.73
Schedule
Monday‑Friday, 40 hours per week