FBI Independent Contract Linguist

The FBI’s Foreign Language Program has an opportunity for U.S. citizens proficient in foreign languages to provide services as independent contract linguists (ICLs). The services provided by ICLs include, but are not limited to, translating written and/or audio materials generally from the foreign language into English; interpreting during interviews with witnesses, victims, or subjects of a crime or during visits with foreign dignitaries; and providing linguistic and cultural expertise and testimonies on matters over which the FBI has jurisdiction. ICLs are considered contractors; they are not FBI employees. ICLs work on assignments based on the needs of the FBI, with scheduling flexibility.

REQUIREMENTS: U.S. citizens interested in the ICL opportunity must meet the following requirements: (1) be at least 18 years old; (2) have resided in the United States, or worked abroad for the U.S. government as either an employee or contractor in a federal or military capacity, or been a dependent of someone in such service, for three out of the last five years; (3) obtain qualifying scores (Interagency Language Roundtable 2+) on the FBI’s Foreign Language Test Battery, which is composed of listening, reading, translation, and speaking tests; (4) pass the FBI’s background investigation, which includes a polygraph, by complying with the FBI Eligibility Guide to obtain a Top Secret clearance; and (5) provide services onsite at the local FBI field office at least 20 hours per week, depending on available work. Translation and/or interpretation experience is preferred but not required.

Please follow the ICL Resume Guidelines and Sample Resume to avoid any delays in processing your submission.