Kurdish; Sorani​/Arabic Translators

Description

Kurdish (Sorani)/Arabic Linguist

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Kurdish (Sorani) linguist with proficiency in Arabic to join our mission‑driven team. This role requires a language expert capable of handling a diverse range of complex linguistic tasks with accuracy, cultural awareness, and insight.

You will provide professional‑level linguistic support across translation, interpretation, transcription, and gisting including but not limited to:

• Accurately translate materials (both digital and hard copy) from Kurdish and Arabic 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.

• Provide consecutive interpretation; simultaneous interpretation may occasionally be required.
• Maintain high fidelity and fluency, demonstrating understanding of regional dialects and cultural context.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Bachelor's degree and 4 - 8 years of prior relevant experience or Master's 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 or an accepted commercial testing vendor.

• 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.

• 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.
• Travel is required both OCONUS and CONUS and is at the discretion of the customer. Candidate must be able to support the contract 24/7 when on travel.

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.