Flexible Working
We support full-time, part-time, compressed, and flexible hours. Remote and homeworking are not available in London. There are limited opportunities for homeworking in Cheltenham and Manchester, as the role is primarily office-based.
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. Join us to deliver impact at the heart of national security in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The Role
If you have a passion for languages, working as a language specialist offers a unique opportunity to support high-value activities that keep the country safe. We are looking for Persian linguists for roles that go beyond translation and transcription. Your knowledge of Persian language, Iranian culture, ideology, and politics will be crucial in safeguarding the UK.
You will identify nuances and extract key information from spoken and written materials, contextualize it, and make it accessible. You’ll have opportunities to develop your career, focusing on areas of interest, and work on varied, impactful tasks using your language skills.
At MI5 and MI6, you’ll be part of multidisciplinary teams, playing active roles in projects and investigations, utilizing your judgment, interpersonal skills, and linguistic expertise. Your responsibilities will include translation, interpretation, operational planning, casework, and training.
At GCHQ, you’ll combine language and technical skills to analyze digital communications, build intelligence pictures, and support operational and policy decisions.
About You
No experience or formal qualifications are required, only active and passive language skills, excellent English, and good knowledge of Iranian culture, history, religion, and politics. Proficiency at C1 level or higher in Persian is essential, which includes understanding demanding texts, expressing ideas fluently, and creating detailed texts on complex topics.
Interest in technology, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail are also important. During the interview, you will need to pass a language proficiency test involving reading and translating newspaper articles and broadcasts.
Training and Development
We offer an inclusive, supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth, language events, workshops, and qualifications. You will be assigned mentors and receive tailored training to support your career development across MI5, MI6, or GCHQ.
Rewards and Benefits
Starting salaries range from £36,408 to £44,818 at MI5 and MI6, with potential language allowances. GCHQ offers a starting salary of £36,408, with an additional £3,000 after probation for language skills. Benefits include generous leave, performance recognition, learning budgets, flexible working, travel loans, facilities, and parental leave.
Diversity and Inclusion
We value diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled, and neurodivergent individuals. We are committed to creating a workforce that reflects society and provides equal opportunities.
What to Expect
Our fair, transparent recruitment process includes application review, in-person language tests, and interviews. The process may take 9-12 months, including vetting. Travel expenses are not reimbursed, and roles may require mobility and overseas postings, with considerations for personal circumstances.
Before You Apply
Applicants must be British citizens or hold dual British nationality and pass the Developed Vetting security clearance. Please prepare a separate, discreet email for correspondence, and consider practicalities related to location and relocation costs. Only apply from within the UK.
Right to Withdraw
We reserve the right to close the application process early once sufficient applications are received. Submit your application promptly to avoid missing out.
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