Somali Language Specialist Ref. 3484

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

Job summary

An established industry player in national security is seeking passionate Somali linguists to join their team. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the safety of the UK by utilizing your linguistic skills in a supportive environment. You'll engage in analyzing Somali materials, providing crucial insights to enhance intelligence efforts. With comprehensive training and development opportunities, you will grow your skills while collaborating with diverse teams. If you're eager to make a difference and thrive in a dynamic setting, this position is perfect for you.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Pension scheme

Cycle-to-work scheme

Parental leave

Performance recognition

Flexible working hours

Development budgets

Language maintenance classes

Immersion sessions

Travel loans

Qualifications

• Proficient in Somali at C1 level or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of Somali culture and politics.

Responsibilities

• Analyze material in Somali and provide insights.
• Support high-value activities for national security.

Skills

Somali language proficiency

C1 level English proficiency

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

No formal qualifications required

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 at the heart of national security within a supportive and inclusive environment.

The Role

If you are passionate about languages, working as a language specialist for UK intelligence agencies offers a unique opportunity. You’ll support high-value activities that keep the country safe. We’re seeking 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, prioritise tasks, and communicate with stakeholders. Your cultural and linguistic knowledge will help identify nuances and extract key information from spoken and written sources. Support for language technology tools and interpretation, with training provided, may also be required. Working under pressure is possible, but full support from managers and colleagues will be available. Collaboration across teams and organizations is essential, using language technology to piece together intelligence and support decision-making.

The role includes a mix of individual and group projects, mentoring opportunities, and skill development in analytical, reporting, and technical areas. Significant learning and knowledge-sharing opportunities are available.

All MI5 contracts include a mobility clause, meaning you could be required to serve away from your usual workplace for periods of duty or training.

About You

No formal experience or qualifications are required, but you must have proficient Somali language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening), excellent English, and good knowledge of Somali culture, history, religion, and politics. You should be passionate about the language and proficient at a C1 level or equivalent, according to the CEFR framework.

At C1 level, you can:

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

Proficiency may come from growing up in a multilingual environment, military language training, or academic study. You should be inquisitive, curious, analytical, confident in communication, and pride yourself on insights you can provide.

During the interview, you will need to pass a language proficiency test involving translation of articles, broadcasts, and interpretation of audio materials. Results will be considered alongside role requirements. Travel expenses are not reimbursed.

Training and Development

Upon joining, you will receive comprehensive induction and ongoing training on tools, methods, and the role. MI5 offers language maintenance classes, immersion sessions, and support for language qualifications. GCHQ provides similar support, encouraging skill development in areas of interest, including language qualifications like CertTrans and DipTrans, funded by the organization.

Rewards and Benefits

MI5 offers a starting salary of £39,152 with potential language allowances. GCHQ’s starting salary is £36,408, with an additional £3,120 after a successful 6-month probation. Benefits include 25 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 after 5 years, public holidays, performance recognition, development budgets, flexible working, travel loans (GCHQ), pension scheme, cycle-to-work, on-site facilities, and parental leave.

Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and inclusion, reflecting society in our workforce. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled persons, and neurodivergent individuals. Details on our diversity initiatives are available on our websites.

Disability Confident

As a Disability Confident employer, we commit to fair recruitment practices, offering a fair chance for disabled applicants who meet role criteria, including a pass in the Somali language test.

Application Process

The process is merit-based and transparent:

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

Travel expenses are not reimbursed. The process may take 9-12 months, including vetting, so applicants should maintain current employment until final offers are made.

Eligibility and Security

You must be a British citizen or dual British nationality. Full eligibility criteria are available online. The role requires Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance, with details provided on the vetting process. Refrain from recreational drugs during the process and consider setting up a secure, anonymous email account for correspondence.

Location considerations: MI5 roles are based in London; GCHQ roles are in Cheltenham. Applicants should consider travel and relocation implications. Overseas applications should be made only when visiting the UK. Applications should be confidential, shared only with close contacts.

Note: The application closing date may be advanced based on application volume. Early submission is advised.