Somali Language Specialist Ref. 3484

MI5; London; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Join MI5 as a Somali Language Specialist, where your linguistic skills will support national security efforts. You'll analyze Somali materials, provide insights, and collaborate with teams to ensure the safety of the UK. This role offers comprehensive training and the opportunity to develop your career within the intelligence community.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Performance recognition schemes

Development budgets

Flexible working options

Excellent pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site facilities such as gyms and cafes

Paid parental and adoption leave

Qualifications

• Proficient in Somali language with excellent English skills.
• Passion for Somali culture, history, and politics.

Responsibilities

• Analyze material in Somali and provide insights.
• Engage in individual and group projects and mentoring.

Skills

Somali

English

Communication

Education

C1 level in Somali

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 organized crime. Working across our missions, you’ll deliver impact at the heart of national security within a supportive and inclusive environment.

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 involve more than translation and transcription—your knowledge of Somali language, culture, ideology, and politics will be a significant asset.

The role involves analyzing material in Somali, providing insights to analysts, investigators, and operational teams. You’ll work independently, prioritize tasks, and communicate with stakeholders. You’ll identify nuances, extract key information from spoken and written materials, and make it accessible. Support for language technology tools and interpretation will be provided. Working under pressure may be required, with full support available. Collaboration and sharing knowledge are essential aspects of this role.

You’ll engage in individual and group projects, mentoring, and skills development. Opportunities for learning and knowledge-sharing are significant.

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

About You

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

At C1 level, you should be able to:

• Understand a wide range of demanding texts and conversations.
• Express ideas fluently.
• Use the language effectively in social, academic, or professional contexts.
• Create detailed, well-structured texts on complex topics.

GCHQ evaluates passive skills to the equivalent of C1 in reading and listening, while MI5 requires C1 or equivalent across all four skills. You can consult the CEFR self-assessment grid for more details.

Your proficiency could come from growing up in a multilingual family, military language training, or academic study. You should be inquisitive, curious, and a problem-solver. You’ll be a confident communicator, both verbally and in writing, and take pride in your insights.

During the interview, you’ll need to pass a language proficiency test involving translation of articles and broadcasts, and interpretation of audio materials. 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 working practices. Ongoing training includes language maintenance classes, immersion sessions, and internal courses. Funding for language qualifications like CertTrans and DipTrans is available.

Whether at MI5 or GCHQ, you’ll have support to develop your skills, explore new opportunities, and build a rewarding career.

Rewards and Benefits

MI5 offers a starting salary of £39,152 with potential language allowances. GCHQ offers £36,408, plus an additional £3,120 after probation, in recognition of language skills.

Additional benefits include:

• 25 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 after 5 years, plus holidays.
• Performance recognition schemes.
• Development budgets (MI5).
• Flexible working options.
• Interest-free season ticket loan (GCHQ).
• Excellent pension scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• On-site facilities such as gyms and cafes.
• Paid parental and adoption leave.

Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and inclusion, reflecting society in our workforce. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled, and neurodiverse individuals. Learn more about our commitment to diversity 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 Confident

We are a Leader within the DWP’s Disability Confident scheme, committed to fair recruitment practices for disabled applicants. To secure an interview, you must demonstrate:

• Motivation and commitment to UK intelligence work.
• Passing the Somali language test.

What to Expect

Our process is merit-based and transparent:

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

Passing each stage is required to proceed. The process may take 9-12 months, so continue current employment until a final offer is received.

Before You Apply

You must be a British citizen or dual national. Full eligibility criteria are available at:

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

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

Roles require Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. More info is at:

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

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

Applicants should consider security, relocation, and application procedures carefully. Only apply from within the UK, and avoid discussing your application publicly.