Somali Language Specialist Ref. 3484

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

Job summary

Join MI5 as a Somali linguist, where your language skills will be crucial in safeguarding the UK. This role offers a unique opportunity to support national security efforts through analysis and insights, while benefiting from extensive training and development opportunities.

Benefits

25 days’ annual leave

Development budget

Flexible working options

Excellent pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site facilities

Paid parental and adoption leave

Qualifications

• Proficient in Somali language (reading, writing, speaking, listening).
• Understanding of Somali culture, history, religion, and politics.

Responsibilities

• Analyze material in Somali and provide insights to teams.
• Support language technology tools and AI.
• Interpretation duties may be required.

Skills

Somali

English

Analytical Skills

Education

C1 Level Proficiency

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 vital 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 help keep the country safe. We’re looking for Somali linguists for roles that go beyond translation and transcription—your knowledge of Somali language, culture, ideology, and politics will be vital in safeguarding the UK.

As a Somali linguist, your role involves analyzing material in Somali, providing insights to analysts, investigators, and operational teams. You’ll work independently, prioritize tasks, and communicate with stakeholders. Your cultural and linguistic expertise will help identify nuances and extract key information from spoken and written sources. You may also support language technology tools and AI, with full training provided. Interpretation duties may be required, and collaboration with mission teams is essential.

This role involves a mix of individual and group work, with opportunities for mentoring, skill development, and knowledge sharing.

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

About You

No prior experience or qualifications are necessary. However, you must have proficient Somali language skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening), excellent English, and a good understanding of Somali culture, history, religion, and politics. You should be passionate about the language and proficient at a C1 level 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
• Produce detailed, well-structured texts on complex topics

GCHQ evaluates passive skills in reading and listening to the equivalent of C1, while MI5 requires C1 across all four skills. You can consult the CEFR self-assessment grid for more details. Your proficiency may come from growing up in a multilingual environment, military training, or academic study. You should be inquisitive, analytical, confident in communication, and pride yourself on your insights.

During the interview, you’ll need to pass a language proficiency test involving reading, translating, listening, and interpreting. Results are 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 procedures. Ongoing training, language maintenance classes, immersion sessions, and support for language qualifications are provided to help you excel and develop your skills.

Whether at MI5 or GCHQ, you’ll have opportunities to grow your knowledge, explore new areas, 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 six months. Benefits include:

• 25 days’ annual leave, increasing to 30 after 5 years, plus holidays
• Recognition schemes
• Development budget (MI5)
• Flexible working options
• Interest-free season ticket loan (GCHQ)
• Excellent pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site facilities (gym, restaurant, coffee bars)
• Paid parental and adoption 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 those from low socio-economic backgrounds. Details are 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

We’re Disability Confident

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

What to Expect

The recruitment process includes:

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

Travel expenses are not reimbursed. Passing each stage is necessary to proceed. The process may take 9-12 months, including vetting. Continue current employment until final offer.

Before You Apply

Applicants must be UK citizens or dual nationals. Full eligibility criteria are available online:

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

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

Security clearance required is Developed Vetting (DV). More info is available on our websites. Refrain from recreational drug use during the process and consider creating a separate email for application contact. Ensure your application is submitted from within the UK, and be mindful of the potential impact of applying from overseas. Discuss your application only with close family or partner.

Note: Roles are based in London (MI5) or Cheltenham (GCHQ). Consider practical and financial implications before applying. Relocation assistance may be available at MI5, but not at GCHQ.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if sufficient applications are received. Apply promptly to avoid missing out.