Mandarin Language Specialist Ref. 3144

TN United Kingdom; Manchester; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking Language Specialists to join their team in Manchester. This role offers a unique opportunity to utilize your Mandarin language skills and cultural knowledge to support national security efforts. You will engage in translation, interpretation, and analysis of digital communications, contributing to vital intelligence operations. The organization provides a supportive environment with ample training and development opportunities, ensuring you can thrive in your career. If you are passionate about languages and want to make a difference, this role could be the perfect fit for you.

Benefits

25-30 days’ annual leave

Flexible working hours

Pension scheme

Gym facilities

Paid parental leave

Qualifications

• Proficient in Mandarin, able to understand demanding texts and conversations.
• Strong understanding of Chinese culture, history, and politics.

Responsibilities

• Support high-value activities using language skills for intelligence.
• Involved in translation, interpretation, and operational planning.

Skills

Mandarin proficiency (C1 level or higher)

Excellent written English

Understanding of Chinese culture

Problem-solving

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Analytical mindset

Job description

Job Description

Department: Languages

Locations: Cheltenham, London, Manchester

Hours of Work: Full-time and part-time opportunities (flexible working hours available)

Salary: £34,663 - £43,490

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. We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

About 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 help keep the country safe, using your knowledge of Mandarin language and Chinese culture, ideology, and politics to identify key information and support operational work.

You will be involved in translation, interpretation, operational planning, casework, and training. At GCHQ, you’ll combine language and technical skills to analyze digital communications, contributing to intelligence gathering and policy shaping.

About You

No specific experience or qualifications are required, just active and passive language skills, excellent written English, and a good understanding of Chinese culture, history, religion, and politics. You should be proficient (at C1 level or higher) in Mandarin, able to understand demanding texts and conversations, and express ideas effectively.

Additional skills include problem-solving, interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and an analytical mindset. During the interview, you will need to pass a language proficiency test.

Training and Development

We provide a supportive environment with language events, workshops, professional qualifications, and tailored training plans. You will be assigned a buddy and a mentor to support your career development, with opportunities for continuous learning and upskilling.

Rewards and Benefits

Starting salaries range from £34,663 to £43,490, with additional allowances and benefits such as 25-30 days’ annual leave, flexible working, pension scheme, gym facilities, and paid parental leave.

Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from under-represented groups to reflect the society we serve.