Explore Careers

Language Officers

Explore Careers

Language Officers

Education & Training
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • Navy logo

What do Language Officers do in the Military?

Language officers participate in and provide supervision in various language translation and interpretation activities related to military and intelligence operations.

Where do Language Officers work?

Language officers normally work on military bases, aboard ships, or in airplanes.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$77,265

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$20,988 - $290,183

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Language Officers gain in the Military?

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for language officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Language officers receive formal training in the development, sustainment, and enhancement of language skills, which often includes language immersion training. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.

What skills help Language Officers succeed?

  • Interest in reading and writing
  • Interest in working with people
  • Talent for foreign languages

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Interpreters and Translators
  • Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

Interested? Take Your Next Step!