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Cryptologic Linguist

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Cryptologic Linguist - 35P


  • Active/Reserve:Both
  • Officer/Enlisted:Enlisted
  • Restrictions:None

Overview

A cryptologic linguist is primarily responsible for identifying foreign communications using signals equipment. Their role is crucial as the nation's defense depends largely on information that comes from foreign languages.

Job Duties

  • Identifying and analyzing foreign communications
  • Recognize changes in transmission modes and tip the appropriate authority
  • Provide translation expertise to analysts
  • Provide transcriptions and translations from foreign communications

    • Requirements

  • Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps the Army better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you. In addition to the ASVAB, the Army uses the Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) to evaluate how well a native English speaker can learn a new language. Your score on the DLAB determines the level of difficulty for language training.

    • Training

    Job training for a cryptologic analyst requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and three to 52 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and in the field.Soldiers who aren't fluent in a foreign language will attend training at the Defense Language Institute for six to 18 months prior to attending Advanced Individual Training. Some of the skills you'll learn are:

  • Identifying foreign communications from an assigned geographic area
  • Analyzing foreign communications to support missions
  • Procedures for handling classified information and preparing reports

    • Helpful Skills

  • Talent for foreign languages
  • Interest in speech, communications and foreign languages
  • Good at working with people as a member of a team
  • Enjoy reading and writing

    • ASVAB

    The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is an examination that is administered by the United States Military Entrance Processing Command. It is used to determine qualification and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.

  • Skilled Technical (ST) : 91

    • Compensation

  • Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time.

    • See the whole list of Army Occupational Specialties here

    To learn more about the Army's rank structure, see our complete list of Army ranks.
    To see a list of military medals and decorations that can be earned by servicemembers in the Army and other branches of the military, see our list of military decorations and medals.