

Language proficiency is required for a linguist to speak one or more foreign languages. Linguists are employed by the FBI as part of their investigation into criminal activity. The bureau also offers a generous benefits package, which includes health insurance, a retirement plan, and paid vacation and sick leave. How Much Do Fbi Linguists Make?įBI linguists are among the highest-paid employees at the bureau, with salaries ranging from $56,233 to $146,969 per year. In other words, if you needed a quick salary calculator, it would be around $34.55 per hour. On Nov 16, 2022, an FBI Linguist in the United States was expected to earn $71,871 per year. How much does an FBI linguist make as a base salary? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the hourly wage for a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) linguist is $39.64 in the United States, which is 47% higher than the national average. A college degree does not have to be in the foreign language unless the applicant is not a native speaker however, a degree obtained in the native language should be highly recommended. In order to work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, a linguist must have a bachelor’s degree. Linguists provide valuable intelligence to the government that can be useful in the fight against terrorism and criminal activity that could endanger national security and put Americans at risk. A typical week for these workers will last at least 20 hours.Ī foreign language and culture knowledge is required for the FBI to investigate effectively. A fluent language skills assessment requires them to be able to write, read, listen, and speak one or more of the languages critical to US national security. Contract linguists are hired to translate documents or audio recordings in other languages into English. Contract testers administer phone-based tests to assess a variety of other people’s language skills. Other languages’ contract language monitors create content summaries of written or audio material. Linguists working as special agents are fully immersed in the FBI and have higher security clearance.

They must also be able to analyze speech patterns and written text, and have a keen eye for detail.Ī linguist’s responsibilities at the FBI may differ depending on the type of job he or she holds. Linguists working for the FBI must have a strong knowledge of at least one foreign language, and be able to quickly learn new ones. They use their expertise in languages and linguistics to help law enforcement officers understand what suspects are saying, and to find connections between different cases.

Linguists in the FBI work to identify and track down criminals and terrorists by analyzing the language they use.
