Persian Language Specialist Ref. 3369

MI5; Cheltenham, Manchester; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Join MI5 as a Persian linguist and contribute to national security by utilizing your language skills in translation, interpretation, and intelligence analysis. You'll work in a supportive environment with opportunities for training and development, playing a vital role in safeguarding the UK from various threats.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Flexible working options

Cycle to work scheme

On-site gym and facilities

Paid parental leave

Qualifications

• Proficient in Persian at C1 level or higher.
• Excellent written English and understanding of Iranian culture.

Responsibilities

• Support high-value activities to safeguard the UK.
• Translate and interpret communications.
• Engage in varied and impactful work using language skills.

Skills

Persian

Interpersonal Skills

Analytical Mind

Education

C1 Level Proficiency

Job description

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. You’ll contribute to vital missions that impact national security, in a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters growth.

The Role

If you have a passion for languages, working as a language specialist for UK intelligence agencies offers a unique opportunity. You’ll support high-value activities that help keep the country safe. We’re seeking Persian linguists for roles that involve more than translation and transcription. Your knowledge of Persian language, Iranian culture, ideology, and politics will be crucial in safeguarding the UK.

With strong proficiency in Persian, you’ll identify nuances, extract key information from spoken and written sources, contextualise it, and make it accessible. You’ll have opportunities to develop your career in areas that interest you, engaging in varied and impactful work using your language skills.

At MI5 and MI6, you’ll be part of multidisciplinary teams, leading projects and investigations. Your work will require good judgment, interpersonal skills, and linguistic and cultural expertise. You’ll perform translation, interpretation, operational planning, casework, and training.

At GCHQ, you’ll combine language and technical skills to interpret digital communications, build intelligence pictures, and influence government policy. Working with technical experts, you’ll apply analytical skills to identify reportable intelligence and support operations.

About You

No formal experience or qualifications are required. You should have active and passive language skills, excellent written English, and a good understanding of Iranian culture, history, religion, and politics. You must be passionate about Persian and proficient (at C1 level or higher) in all its forms. Proficiency can come from growing up in a multilingual family, military training, or academic study.

At C1 level, you can:

• Understand demanding texts and conversations.
• Express ideas fluently.
• Use the language effectively in social, academic, or professional contexts.
• Create detailed texts on complex topics.

Interest in technology is beneficial, especially for GCHQ. We seek problem solvers with interpersonal skills and high attention to detail. You’ll also need:

• An analytical, inquisitive mind.
• Good judgment and people skills.
• A collaborative approach, sharing knowledge and maintaining professional standards.

During the interview, you’ll need to pass a language proficiency test involving reading and translating newspaper articles and broadcasts. Results will be considered alongside role requirements.

Training and Development

Our agencies foster an inclusive, supportive environment that encourages growth. We value talent and provide training, language events, workshops, and professional qualifications. Joining us means becoming part of a network across all three agencies, broadening perspectives through diversity of thought.

For MI5 and MI6, we’ll identify development areas and tailor training plans. You’ll receive induction, mentorship, and training in interpretation and other skills, with access to language and non-language development opportunities, including our corporate academy.

GCHQ offers a strong development program, working alongside experienced language experts. You’ll receive comprehensive induction, mentorship, and opportunities to attain CIOL qualifications, with options to upskill and earn rewards.

Whatever your career path, you’ll join a passionate community of linguists working on critical, impactful work.

Rewards and Benefits

MI5 and MI6 offer a starting salary of £36,408 - £44,818, with potential language allowances. GCHQ offers a starting salary of £36,408, with a £3,000 annual bonus after probation.

Additional benefits include:

• 25 days’ annual leave, increasing to 30 days after 5 years, plus public holidays.
• Recognition through performance schemes.
• Personal Learning Budget (MI5 only).
• Flexible working options.
• Interest-free season ticket loan (GCHQ only).
• Cycle to work scheme.
• On-site facilities such as gym, restaurant, and coffee bars.
• Paid parental and adoption leave.

We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and neurodivergent candidates.

Learn more about our culture and commitment to diversity on our websites. We are proud to have achieved Leader status within the DWP’s Disability Confident scheme, offering interviews to disabled candidates who meet essential criteria.

What to Expect

Our recruitment process is merit-based and transparent, including:

• Application and eligibility review.
• In-person language tests in London.
• Interview and assessment centre in London or Cheltenham.

You may also undergo a hearing test. Passing each stage is essential. The process can take 9-12 months, including vetting, so continue current employment until final offers are made. Travel expenses are not reimbursed. All contracts include a mobility clause, with potential overseas postings and travel opportunities, especially within MI6.

Before You Apply

Applicants must be UK citizens or hold dual British nationality. Full eligibility details are available on our website. The role requires Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance, which involves background checks. We have a strict drugs policy; recreational drug use must be disclosed, and no recreational drugs can be used once the application process begins.

We recommend setting up a discreet email for your application to protect your privacy. Ensure you live within a reasonable distance of London, Cheltenham, or Manchester, considering relocation costs and practicalities. Only apply from within the UK; overseas applications are discouraged. Discuss your application only with close family or partners.

Right to Withdraw Statement:

We reserve the right to close the application early if sufficient applications are received. Submit your application promptly to avoid missing out.