Cultural​/Political Advisor

Africa Cultural/Political Advisor

HII's Mission Technologies division is seeking experienced Cultural/Political Advisors to support U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force–Somalia (JSOTF SOM). These positions are based primarily in Mogadishu, Somalia, with additional travel to locations within Somalia, Djibouti, and Kenya as mission requirements dictate. Advisors will provide Somali cultural, political, historical, and tribal insights to inform senior level engagements with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), civic leaders, and tribal leaders.

This role ensures leadership decisions are informed by accurate understanding of local customs, socio political dynamics, and operational environments. This position requires exceptional interpersonal skills, ILR Level 3 proficiency in Somali and English, and the ability to operate effectively in sensitive, high stakes, cross cultural environments.

Work Schedule & Conditions:
Approximately 10 trips per contract period (about 20 per year), averaging 5 days each, depending on mission needs. Standard workweek: 8 hours/day, 7 days/week (56 hours/week). Work will be conducted in austere and field environments with extreme heat, limited sanitation, and potential personal danger. Access to medical care may be limited during operations. Lodging, meals, workspace, computer equipment, and mission essential support items will be provided.

What You Will Do:

• Serve as a Somali Cultural/Political Advisor to JSOTF SOM senior leadership.
• Advise and assist during engagements with Federal Government of Somalia representatives, as well as civic and tribal leaders.
• Provide Somali to English and English to Somali interpretation and translation for meetings, communications, and official documentation.
• Apply knowledge of U.S. military operations, DoD and USSOCOM directives, and Somali political and cultural structures in daily advisory work.
• Collaborate with U.S. and Somali personnel to support development of reports, assessments, and operational products.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of JSOTF SOM campaign plans and objectives, providing analysis and best practice recommendations.
• Identify opportunities to improve engagement strategies with Somali government officials.
• Maintain productive working relationships with Somali governmental, civic, and tribal stakeholders.
• Prepare and deliver written and oral cultural and political assessments to support leadership decision making.

What We Are Looking For:

• 6 years relevant experience with Bachelors in related field; 4 years relevant experience with Masters in related field; or High School Diploma or equivalent and 10 years relevant experience.
• Minimum of three years of experience as a cultural advisor in Somalia.
• Clearance:
  Active TS/SCI clearance, with the ability to work in SCIF environments and comply with U.S. Government security regulations.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen ILR Level 3 proficiency in Somali and English.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Somali culture, politics, tribal structures, and social dynamics.
• Experience supporting U.S. Government or military operations in Somalia.
• Ability to provide professional Somali/English interpretation and translation.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to collaborate with U.S. and Somali government personnel on reporting and operational planning.
• Understanding of applicable U.S. policies, directives, and authorities relevant to advisory work, including 127e.
• Willingness to travel within Somalia, Djibouti, and Kenya as required for operational support.

Physical Requirements:

• This position will require working in a deployed location, outdoors, and in an office. Must be able to lift up to 75lbs. Must meet physical and medical requirements for deployment to austere locations within the USAFRICOM AOR. Capable of climbing ladders and tolerating confined spaces and extreme temperature variances.