Flexible Working: We support full-time, part-time, compressed, and flexible hours. Remote and homeworking are not available in London. Limited opportunities for homeworking exist in Cheltenham and Manchester, as the role is primarily office-based.
Your knowledge of Persian could open up a career in intelligence. By joining MI5, MI6, and GCHQ, you can play a part in protecting the UK.
About Us
MI5, MI6, and GCHQ are the UK’s Intelligence Services. We work together to safeguard Britain’s people, interests, and businesses from threats such as cyber-attacks, espionage, terrorism, and organized crime. You’ll deliver impact at the heart of national security within a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters growth.
The Role
If you have a passion for languages, working as a language specialist for UK intelligence agencies offers a unique opportunity. You’ll support high-value activities that keep the country safe. We seek Persian linguists for roles that involve translation, transcription, and operational work, including planning, casework, and training.
With strong knowledge of Persian and Iranian culture, you’ll identify nuances and extract key information from spoken and written sources, making it accessible to others. You’ll have opportunities to develop your career in areas that interest you most, engaging in varied and impactful work.
At MI5 and MI6, you’ll be part of multidisciplinary teams, contributing to projects and investigations. Your skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening to Persian will be used in translation, interpretation, and operational contexts.
At GCHQ, you’ll combine language and technical skills to analyze digital communications, building intelligence pictures and influencing government policy.
About You
No formal experience or qualifications are required. You should have active and passive language skills, excellent written English, and a good understanding of Iranian culture, history, religion, and politics. Proficiency at C1 level or higher in Persian is essential, which includes understanding complex texts and conversations, and expressing ideas effectively.
Interest in technology is beneficial, especially for GCHQ roles. Key qualities include problem-solving, interpersonal skills, attention to detail, judgment, and collaboration. During the interview, you’ll undertake a language proficiency test involving reading and translating media articles and broadcasts.
Training and Development
We offer a supportive environment with language events, workshops, and professional qualifications. You’ll be assigned a buddy and a mentor to guide your career development. Training includes interpretation skills, language courses, and access to our corporate academy. GCHQ provides additional learning opportunities and qualifications, including CIOL certifications, with potential financial rewards.
Rewards and Benefits
Salary ranges are:
* MI5 and MI6: £36,408 - £44,818, with possible language allowances.
* GCHQ: £36,408, with a £3,000 annual language bonus after probation.
Other benefits include 25-30 days’ annual leave, public holidays, performance recognition, personal learning budgets, flexible working, travel loans, cycle schemes, on-site facilities, and parental leave. We value diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled, and neurodivergent individuals.
Our commitment to disability inclusion is demonstrated through our Leader status in the DWP’s Disability Confident scheme, offering accessible interview processes for disabled applicants.
What to Expect
Our recruitment process includes:
* Application and eligibility review
* In-person language tests in London
* Interview and assessment centre (London or Cheltenham)
Additional assessments like hearing tests may be required. The process can take 9-12 months, including vetting. Applicants should continue current employment until final offers are made. Travel expenses are not reimbursed. Contracts include mobility clauses, and overseas postings may be available, especially with MI6.
Before You Apply
Applicants must be British citizens or dual nationals, with security clearance (DV). Full eligibility criteria and vetting information are available online. We advise setting up a discreet email for application correspondence and considering the practicalities of relocating or commuting to London, Cheltenham, or Manchester. Applications from overseas are not accepted outside the UK. Discuss your application only with close contacts.
Right to Withdraw
We reserve the right to close applications early once sufficient submissions are received. Early application is recommended to avoid missing out.
#J-18808-Ljbffr