Cultural Liaison Officer (Partner Military)

About the role

The Cultural Liaison Officer (Partner Military) will support the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research‑Africa (WRAIR‑Africa) by advising on cultural, ceremonial and national processes specific to the host nation and its military institutions. This role ensures smooth communication and coordination between WRAIR‑Africa, its U.S. partners and local military and civilian stakeholders, enabling effective infectious‑disease surveillance and research.

Key responsibilities

• Advise WRAIR‑Africa leadership on customs, courtesies and cultural protocols of the assigned country.
• Guide engagement with host‑nation military and civilian partners, mitigating miscommunication caused by linguistic or cultural differences.
• Provide verbal translation and interpretation during meetings as requested.
• Assist in strategic communications and multinational coordination between WRAIR‑Africa, the prime contractor and local partners.
• Review business agreements and research protocols from a cultural perspective.
• Deliver written translations of technical and operational documents.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience working with military or governmental institutions in the assigned country.
• Strong understanding of local cultural norms, customs and diplomatic etiquette.
• Excellent communication skills in English and the local language(s).
• Ability to work independently in a host‑nation environment and travel as needed.

Required skills

• Verbal translation and interpretation.
• Written translation of technical documents.
• Cross‑cultural advisory and liaison expertise.