Language analysts (LAs) are responsible for analyzing foreign language communications and applying their understanding of nuance, context, cultural overtones, and dialect to contribute to products that meet the intelligence needs of decision-makers and analysts. These needs can include both time-sensitive requests requiring a quick response and longer-term strategic interests requiring greater depth and breadth of analysis on a continuing basis.

LAs usually work within a regional or topical focus area (or both), with tasks that may include:

finding and prioritizing information of intelligence value within large volumes of foreign language communications data;

transcribing, translating, or summarizing foreign language materials and adding necessary context;

quality reviewing the work of other LAs;

writing or reviewing intelligence reports based on foreign language materials; and

researching and developing new analytic techniques.

LAs are also required to maintain their language skills through regular training and testing requirements. Every LA position requires a different balance of tasks and responsibilities.