GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency that protects the UK from threats. We use cutting‑edge technology and partnerships to identify, analyse, and disrupt threats. Work with MI5 and MI6 to keep the country safe in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Flexible working options support a healthy work‑life balance. While this role does not include homeworking, you can have flexible hours, part‑time working, or compressed hours.
We are looking for a Mandarin Language Specialist to support critical intelligence activities. You will extract key information from spoken and written materials, contextualise it, and make it accessible to others. Your analytical skills will enable the identification of reportable intelligence, progress operations and inform government policy. The role offers varied and unique work, with opportunities to develop your career path focusing on your interests.
You don’t need formal qualifications for this position, just active and passive Mandarin language skills, excellent written English and a good knowledge of Chinese culture, history, religion, and politics. You should be a proficient user (C1 level or higher) of Mandarin across all forms. C1 requirements include understanding long texts, expressing ideas fluently, using language socially, academically, or professionally, and creating well‑structured texts.
We value problem solving, interpersonal skills and attention to detail. You should have an analytical enquiring mind, good judgement, effective people skills, a collaborative approach and a keen interest in technology.
From day one, a mentor will help you settle into your role and provide guidance. Comprehensive training supports building confidence in technical aspects of the job. We support career progression; within five years you may join the Chartered Institute of Linguists and work toward professional qualifications.
Starting salary of £37,892, plus an annual payment of £3,120 upon successful completion of six‑month probation. 25 days annual leave, which increases to 30 days after five years, plus 3 wellbeing days and an additional 10.5 days of public and privilege holidays.
GCHQ is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all groups, including women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities, and those from low socio‑economic backgrounds.
GCHQ is a Leader in the Department for Work and Pensions’ Disability Confident scheme, which encourages fair treatment for disabled applicants.