Getting Started
Whenever available, use the Community's on-line methods of submitting resumes. Agencies are increasingly moving to this method of resume submission; some of the agencies only accept resumes in this fashion.
Read and follow the specific application requirements set forth by each agency. To do otherwise will adversely affect your application for employment. This page includes suggestions for ways to improve and tailor your resume for Language occupations. However, in the event that these guidelines conflict with a specific agency's instructions, disregard these recommendations and follow the agency's requirements.
Review the Content Suggestions outlined below. Highlight these areas in your resume when they are relevant to the requirements outlined in the job vacancy announcement.
Content Suggestions
Technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Individuals working within the Language Career are involved in research, translation, transcription, reporting, and analysis of materials of national concern. Alternatively, they teach foreign language courses for the benefit of their Intelligence Community (IC) colleagues. Carefully read the job vacancy announcement and ensure your resume includes job-related technical expertise. Specifically, outline:
- Foreign Language: List each language. If known, outline your level of proficiency with respect to key tasks such as reading, writing, listening, translation, and transcription. Specific training courses, other instruction, or experience in this area (such as work experience in translation or interpreter services) should be outlined. Many of the agencies prefer applicants with native fluency in one or more languages. Proficiency in English is also desired.
- Other Technical Expertise: List other job-related expertise. Examples include teaching experience, area knowledge, and in-depth knowledge of a particular culture. American Sign Language (ASL) expertise is important for some occupations.
Education: Include diplomas or degrees awarded from educational institutions. Many of the agencies require a bachelor's degree or a more advanced degree in such areas as foreign language, linguistics, international relations, area studies, international studies, regional studies, or a related field. Do not submit transcripts unless the agency requests them. Some agencies request grade point averages for each educational institution you have attended.
General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Highlight your capabilities in general areas such as:
- Oral communication (including briefing skills)
- Written communication
- Critical thinking/analytical skills
- Proficiency in the English language
- Interpersonal skills
- Ability to learn technical terms and concepts quickly in order to effectively interpret or translate
Internships or Related Experience: Include job-related experience such as summer internships with government or industry.
Military Experience: Specify any military experience you possess including your rank and job-related experience.
Overseas/In Country Experience: Previous travel, study, work abroad, or residency in overseas locations may be important for some positions. Outline your familiarity with each country/region.
Professional Licenses and Certifications: List job-related licenses and certifications.
Training Courses: Outline any professional training you may have obtained that is directly relevant to the job vacancy.
Honors, Awards, and Other Accomplishments: List any honors, awards, or other accomplishments that are job-related and demonstrate your technical expertise. For example, list professional memberships or performance awards you have received.
Clearances: It is to your advantage to indicate if you currently or previously possess(ed) a clearance (such as a Top Secret clearance).
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