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.
Your knowledge of Persian could open up a career in intelligence. By joining MI5, MI6, and GCHQ, you can play your 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 organised crime. Working across our vital missions, 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 the UK intelligence agencies offers a unique opportunity. You’ll support high-value activities that keep the country safe, utilizing your knowledge of Persian language and Iranian culture, ideology, and politics. Your skills will help identify nuances and extract key information from various materials, making it accessible and understandable.
You’ll be part of a multi-disciplinary team, playing an active role in directing projects and investigations. Your work may include translation, interpretation, operational planning, casework, and training. At GCHQ, you’ll combine language and technical skills to analyze digital communications, building accurate intelligence pictures to inform government policy.
About You
No formal experience or qualifications are required, just active and passive language skills, excellent 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 higher, capable of understanding demanding texts and conversations, expressing ideas fluently, and creating detailed texts on complex topics.
Having an interest in technology will be beneficial at GCHQ. We seek problem solvers with interpersonal skills and high attention to detail, along with:
* Analytical and enquiring mindset
* Good judgment and people skills
* Collaborative approach and willingness to share knowledge
During the interview, you will need to pass a language proficiency test, translating newspaper articles and broadcasts. Results will be considered alongside role requirements.
Training and Development
We offer an inclusive environment with professional development opportunities, language events, workshops, and qualifications. You’ll be supported by mentors and receive tailored training to help you grow within the organization. GCHQ provides additional learning from language experts, induction programs, and opportunities for further qualifications and upskilling.
Rewards and Benefits
Starting salaries are:
* MI5 and MI6: £36,408 - £44,818, with potential language allowances
* GCHQ: £36,408, with a £3,000 annual language proficiency bonus after probation
Additional benefits include generous leave, performance recognition, personal learning budgets, flexible working, travel loans, facilities, and parental leave. We value diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and neurodivergent candidates.
Application Process
The process includes eligibility checks, language tests in London, and interviews at London or Cheltenham. A hearing test may be required. The entire process may take 9-12 months, including vetting. Travel expenses are not reimbursed, and roles may require relocation or service away from your usual location. Overseas travel opportunities are available at GCHQ.
Before You Apply
You must be a British citizen or dual nationality, with security clearance (DV). Ensure your contact details are discreet, and consider the practicalities of living within commuting distance of the role. Applications from overseas should be made only when visiting the UK. The closing date may be brought forward as applications are received. We reserve the right to withdraw the role early if necessary.
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