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Comprehensive Linguist Job Description, Duties, Responsibilities, Requirements, and Qualifications

Comprehensive Linguist Job Description, Duties, Responsibilities, Requirements, and Qualifications
September 27, 2025

Explore the critical requirements, core duties, primary responsibilities, and key skills that should be included in a comprehensive Linguist job description.

What does a Linguist do?

A linguist is someone who studies language and the factors that influence how language is used. They can work in different industries, such as education, government, and other public and private sectors. Their job involves translating, analyzing, researching, and interpreting language.

Job Description

We are looking for a detail-oriented linguist to join our team. As a linguist, your responsibilities will include completing tasks assigned by clients, such as interpreting spoken and written language, analyzing texts and recordings, and conducting research and interviews. You may also be responsible for training and presenting to junior linguists.

To be successful in this role, you should have good observation skills and be aware of how language and culture are connected. Great linguists understand how factors like culture, race, religion, and economics can affect language. They are also able to identify patterns and analyze data.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Understand job or client requirements and complete language translations, interpretations, analyses, and research accordingly
  • Identify and make sense of language patterns
  • Accurately transcribe audio recordings and organize data
  • Analyze documents and texts and translate complex information into simple language
  • Study languages, cultures, and societies to help create national and school language policies
  • Collaborate with other linguists to document the origins and authenticity of words and texts
  • Provide translation and interpretation services to government, military, and other public and private sectors
  • Stay updated on new research and developments that impact language
  • Train, recruit, and supervise junior linguists
  • Attend conferences, lectures, and workshops to expand knowledge and professional connections

Requirements and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in linguistics or a related field
  • Master's or PhD preferred
  • Additional language courses recommended
  • Proficiency in two or more languages
  • Experience using translation and transcription software, as well as Microsoft Office
  • Excellent language skills
  • Strong organizational, communication, and listening abilities
  • A passion for language and continual learning

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