Job description
Flexible Working: Full time, part-time, and compressed hours are possible. Please note, the MI5 role is office-based only. At GCHQ, home working is available up to one day per week, but beyond that, it is an office-based role. Remote working from another location is not initially available but may be possible after 18-24 months, at which point you may have the opportunity to work from any of our GCHQ offices in Cheltenham, London, or Manchester.
Your knowledge of Tajik could unlock a career in intelligence. By joining MI5 or GCHQ, you can play your part in protecting the UK.
About Us
MI5 and GCHQ are part of the UK’s Intelligence Services. We work together to safeguard Britain’s people, interests, and businesses from threats at home, overseas, and online, including cyber-attacks, espionage, terrorism, and organized crime. Working across these vital missions, you’ll deliver impact at the heart of national security within a supportive and inclusive environment that allows everyone to thrive.
The Role
If you have a passion for languages, working as a language specialist for the UK intelligence agencies offers a unique opportunity. You’ll support high-value activities that keep the country safe. We’re looking for Tajik linguists for roles that go beyond translation and transcription—this is about more than words. Your knowledge of Tajik, Iranian cultures, ideology, and politics will be a significant asset in safeguarding the UK.
As a Tajik linguist, your responsibilities include analyzing material in this language, providing insights to analysts, investigators, and operational teams. You’ll work autonomously, prioritize tasks, and communicate with stakeholders. Your cultural knowledge will help identify nuances, extract key information from spoken and written sources, and make it accessible. There may be a need to support language technology tools and AI, with full training provided. Interpretation skills might also be required. Working under pressure is expected at times, but full support from managers and colleagues will be available. Your contributions as a subject matter expert will be highly valued.
Collaboration with mission and language teams across organizations is essential, utilizing language technology to piece together intelligence and support decisions. You’ll engage in individual and group projects, mentoring others, and enhancing your analytical, reporting, and technical skills. The role offers significant learning, development, and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
Please note, all MI5 contracts include a mobility clause, meaning you could be liable to serve away from your usual workplace for periods of detached duty or training.
About You
No experience or qualifications are required to become a Tajik Language Specialist. However, you must have skills in writing, speaking, reading, and listening in Tajik, excellent written English, and a good understanding of Iranian culture, history, religion, and politics. You should be passionate about the language and proficient (at C1 level or equivalent) across all four skills.
At C1 level or higher, you can:
• Understand demanding texts and conversations.
• Express ideas fluently.
• Use the language effectively in social, academic, or professional contexts.
• Produce well-structured, detailed texts on complex topics.
GCHQ evaluates passive skills to the equivalent of C1 in reading and listening, while MI5 requires C1 or equivalent across all skills. You can find more information on our requirements in the CEFR self-assessment grid.
Your proficiency could stem from growing up in a multilingual family, military language training, or academic study of Tajik. You’ll be inquisitive, curious, and a problem-solver. You won’t accept things at face value; you’ll ask questions and think analytically. Working well with others, being confident in communication, and taking pride in your insights are important qualities.
During the interview, you’ll need to pass a language proficiency test involving reading, translating, listening, and interpreting. Results will be considered alongside role requirements. Travel expenses are not reimbursed.
Training and Development
Upon joining, you’ll receive a thorough induction on tools, methods, and working practices. We understand starting a new role can be challenging, so comprehensive training will be provided. Initial training covers tools, the role, context, and other essential knowledge.
At MI5, you’ll have access to language classes, immersion sessions, and internal courses, with support for language qualifications. GCHQ offers similar support, encouraging you to pursue interests and qualifications like CertTrans and DipTrans, funded by the organization.
Both agencies support your growth and exploration of new opportunities, helping you build a rewarding career.
Rewards and Benefits
MI5 offers a starting salary of £39,152, with potential language allowances. GCHQ’s starting salary is £36,408, plus an additional £3,120 after six months. Benefits include:
• 25 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 after five years, plus 10.5 public and privilege holidays.
• Recognition through performance schemes.
• Development Budget (MI5).
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Interest-free season ticket loan (GCHQ).
• Pension scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Facilities like gyms, restaurants, and coffee bars.
• Paid parental and adoption leave.
Equal Opportunities
Diversity and inclusion are central to our mission. We seek a workforce reflecting society, welcoming applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled people, and neurodivergent individuals.
Learn more about our culture and diversity initiatives at:
https://www.MI5.gov.uk/careers/working-at-MI5/diversity
https://www.GCHQ-careers.co.uk/life-at-GCHQ/diversity-inclusion.html
Disability Confident
We are a Leader within the DWP’s Disability Confident scheme, committed to fair recruitment of disabled candidates who meet role criteria. Our 'Offer of Interview' (OOI) is available for qualifying candidates.
Application Process
Our recruitment is fair, transparent, and merit-based. Stages include:
• Application and eligibility sift
• In-person language tests in London
• Interview and assessment centre (London or Cheltenham)
A hearing test may also be required. Passing all stages is necessary. The process may take 9-12 months, including vetting. Continue current employment until final offer.
Travel expenses are not reimbursed. Please apply from within the UK; applications from overseas should wait until visiting the UK.
We reserve the right to close the role early if enough applications are received. Submit your application promptly to avoid missing out.
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