Somali Language Specialist Ref. 3484

MI5; London; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in national security is seeking Somali linguists to support intelligence activities. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the safety of the UK by analyzing Somali materials and providing critical insights. With comprehensive training and a supportive environment, you will develop your language skills while collaborating with diverse teams. Enjoy competitive benefits, including flexible working arrangements and ongoing professional development. Join a mission-driven organization that values diversity and inclusion, and make a real difference in safeguarding the nation.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Public holidays

Performance recognition

Development budgets

Flexible working

Interest-free season ticket loans

Pension schemes

Cycle schemes

On-site facilities

Parental leave

Qualifications

• Excellent writing, speaking, reading, and listening skills in Somali.
• Good knowledge of Somali culture, history, religion, and politics.

Responsibilities

• Analyze material in Somali and provide insights to teams.
• Support high-value activities that keep the country safe.

Skills

Somali Language Proficiency

Cultural Knowledge of Somalia

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

C1 Level Proficiency in Somali

Tools

Language Technology Tools

Job description

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 Somali 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 such as cyber-attacks, espionage, terrorism, and organised crime. Working across our vital missions, you’ll deliver impact 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 Somali linguists for roles that go beyond translation and transcription—this is about more than words. Your knowledge of Somali language, culture, ideology, and politics will be a significant asset in safeguarding the UK.

The role involves analyzing material in Somali, 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 and extract key information from spoken and written materials, contextualizing it for others. Support for language technology tools and AI may be required, with full training provided. Interpretation might also be necessary. Working under pressure will sometimes be required, but full support from managers and linguists will be available. Collaboration within mission and language teams across organizations is essential, using language technology to piece together intelligence and support informed decisions. You’ll engage in individual and group projects, mentoring, and developing your analytical, reporting, or technical skills. This role offers opportunities for learning and growth.

Please note, all MI5 contracts include a mobility clause, meaning you could be liable to serve away from your usual place of work for periods of detached duty or training.

About You

No experience or qualifications are required to be a Somali Language Specialist. However, you must have excellent writing, speaking, reading, and listening skills in Somali, along with a good knowledge of Somali culture, history, religion, and politics. You should be passionate about the language and proficient (C1 level on the CEFR framework or equivalent).

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.

Proficiency can come from growing up in a multilingual family, military language training, or academic study. You should be inquisitive, curious, a problem-solver, and a confident communicator. 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 comprehensive induction and training on tools, methods, and work practices. Ongoing training includes language maintenance classes, immersion sessions, and internal courses. GCHQ offers support for language qualifications, including CertTrans and DipTrans funding.

Rewards and Benefits

MI5 offers a starting salary of £39,152 with potential language allowances. GCHQ offers a starting salary of £36,408, plus £3,120 after a 6-month probation. Benefits include 25 days’ annual leave (rising to 30 after 5 years), public holidays, performance recognition, development budgets, flexible working, interest-free season ticket loans (GCHQ), pension schemes, cycle schemes, on-site facilities, and parental leave.

Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and inclusion, reflecting society in our workforce. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and neurodivergent persons. More info is available on our websites:

https://www.MI5.gov.uk/careers/working-at-MI5/diversity

https://www.GCHQ-careers.co.uk/life-at-GCHQ/diversity-inclusion.html

Disability Confidence

We are a Leader within the DWP’s Disability Confident scheme, committed to fair hiring practices for disabled candidates. To qualify for an interview, demonstrate motivation and pass the Somali language test.

What to Expect

The recruitment process is merit-based and includes application screening, in-person language tests, and interviews at London or Cheltenham. A hearing test may be required. Travel expenses are not reimbursed. The process may take 9-12 months, so applicants should maintain current employment until final offers are made.

Before You Apply

You must be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. Full eligibility criteria are on our websites:

https://www.MI5.gov.uk/careers/applying-for-jobs

https://www.GCHQ-careers.co.uk/how-to-apply.html

The role requires Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. More info is available on our websites. Consider setting up a secure, anonymous email account for your application. MI5 roles are based in London; GCHQ roles are in Cheltenham. Only apply from within the UK.

Note: The application closing date may be brought forward depending on application volume. Submit early to avoid missing out.