Operator Technical Intelligence - Linguists (ZigZag)

Ministry of Defence - ZigZag Careers Pathway; Greater Lincolnshire; On-site; GBP 47,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

A government defense initiative is seeking skilled linguists and language analysts to support strategic Defence Intelligence operations. Responsibilities include translating foreign language materials and contributing linguistic expertise. Candidates require DV clearance and should have strong analytical skills. Salary ranges from £47,763 to £52,593 per year with benefits including a pension and annual leave.

Benefits

Automatic enrolment in the pension scheme

30 days annual leave

Eight UK bank holidays

Qualifications

• Must currently hold or be eligible for DV clearance.
• Strong capacity to understand complex information and identify patterns.
• Comfortable working in a classified operationally sensitive setting.

Responsibilities

• Translate, interpret and analyse foreign language material.
• Contribute linguistic expertise to analysis and mission planning.
• Complete Defence Intelligence Introduction course and Applied Language Training programme.

Skills

Language analysis

Translation

Data interpretation

Cultural awareness

Job description

Defence Linguist (Russian, Farsi, Mandarin) – Intelligence Corps

JPAN: 2145958

Grade: OR6

Location: Lincolnshire

Contract: 37 hours per week, Full Mobility

Security clearance: DV (Developed Vetting)

Closing date: 10/11/25, 2355

All offers of employment are subject to UK security clearance. To gain this clearance applicants normally need at least five years’ UK residency.

Overview

The ZigZag Career Pathway is an innovative Defence initiative that offers novel ways of entry into the Armed Forces. It’s a pilot programme that opens the door for people from a range of backgrounds to apply their professional skills in meaningful Defence roles.

This opportunity is open to civilians, veterans and reservists. Whether you’ve never served before or are looking to return, the ZigZag Career Pathway pilot offers you the chance to work in fixed term military roles that are matched to your qualifications and experience.

Successful candidates will be supported with tailored onboarding, the right level of training, and a structured and supported induction into the Armed Forces environment.

Within Defence, the Intelligence Corps (INT CORPS) provides vital intelligence capability, collecting, analysing and delivering information to support the Army and wider Defence. Specialists in languages, analysis and human intelligence, the Int Corps plays a central role in protecting the nation’s security.

The role

We are seeking skilled linguists and language analysts to join the OPTI team within the INT CORPS. You will use your advanced language abilities to support strategic Defence Intelligence operations at the heart of the UK’s national security mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate, interpret and analyse foreign language material relevant to Defence intelligence operations, ensuring accuracy, nuance, and contextual understanding
• Contribute linguistic expertise to analysis and mission planning, supporting the broader intelligence effort across Defence and government
• Complete a Defence Intelligence Introduction course (2 weeks) and an Applied Language Training programme (9-12 weeks), with ongoing development support throughout your assignment
• Operate within a highly classified environment, working closely with partners across government while maintaining the highest levels of discretion and data protection
• Complete and pass the Defence Requirements Authority for Culture and Languages (DRACL) Multi-Level Assessment (MLA) or ILR (Interagency Language Roundtable) 3 as appropriate for your language and role

About You

• Must currently hold or be eligible for DV (Developed Vetting) clearance, and meet additional security requirements
• Strong capacity to understand complex information, identify patterns, and draw conclusions from linguistic data
• Comfortable working in a classified, operationally sensitive setting, with a strong sense of professionalism and discretion
• Willing to undertake the 9-day Basic Military Awareness Course and complete any required JNCO (Junior Non-Commissioned Officer) leadership development such as the CLM (Command, Leadership and Management) Course, if applicable

Salary & benefits

Salary: £47,763 - £52,593 per year.

Pension: Automatic enrolment in the non-contributory Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 (opt out available)

Leave: 30 days’ annual leave plus eight UK bank holidays.

Application process

1. Application: submit a CV via the SERVE portal. Eligibility checks are completed, and applications are sifted for suitability.
2. Interview: shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview covering technical skills, qualifications and suitability for military service (command, leadership and management experience).
3. Medical Assessment: all candidates must pass a medical screening.
4. Offer: successful candidates receive terms and conditions, and a job offer letter.

Don’t meet all the requirements? Get in touch anyway – we are keen to hear from talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. For questions or more information, contact: [e-mail]