Special Agent: Linguistics Expertise

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 103,236 - 133,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Robust benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is seeking applicants to use their linguistics background as a special agent. This role involves investigating federal laws, cybersecurity threats, and maintaining relationships with multiple law enforcement agencies.

Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree or higher in linguistics or a related field and must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain Top Secret SCI Clearance. The position offers a competitive salary range of $103,236.00 – $133,200.00.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Able to obtain Top Secret SCI Clearance.
• Willing to travel as needed.
• Meet FBI's Employment Eligibility requirements.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct investigations of federal laws and cybersecurity.
• Exercise judgment and resourcefulness in investigations.
• Create liaison relationships with law enforcement agencies.
• Maintain physical fitness for law enforcement duties.

Skills

Critical thinking

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Technical knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in linguistics or related field

Job description

Overview

Use your linguistics background to become an FBI special agent!

The transition from language and linguistics to special agent is more than a career move—it’s an opportunity to upskill and become an expert in your field. At the FBI, you won’t just use your translation experience; you’ll also work on cases that challenge you to think critically, adapt quickly, and collaborate with elite professionals tackling national security threats. Your ability to uncover crucial information, problem-solve, and apply your technical knowledge will help protect our nation from cyberattacks, terrorism, fraud, and evolving threats.

With specialized training, real‑world investigative experience, and access to cutting‑edge technology, you’ll refine your interpreting and localization skills, enhance your expertise, and develop the foundation to become a leader in your field. The Bureau supports professional growth, a supportive work environment, and a robust benefits package that prioritizes you.

Major Duties

• Plan and conduct investigations of potential violations of federal laws, cybersecurity, and public safety.
• Exercise judgment, resourcefulness, and versatility in meeting investigative demands.
• Create and maintain effective liaison relationships with federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and international law enforcement agencies.
• Maintain a level of physical fitness to ensure the readiness required to perform law‑enforcement duties.

Key Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be able to obtain a Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Clearance.
• Must be willing to travel as required.
• Must meet the FBI’s Employment Eligibility requirements.

Education

• Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher (preferably in linguistics, foreign language, or a related field) from a U.S. accredited college or university. All degrees must be verified by submitting college transcripts.

Salary Level

• $103,236.00 – $133,200.00

Equal Opportunity Employer

The FBI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for this vacancy. Unless explicitly authorized by law, selection will be made without regard to, and there will be no discrimination because of, color, race, religion, national origin, marital status, parental status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age (40 or over), sex, pregnancy and related conditions, or on the basis of personal favoritism, or any other non‑merit factors.