Somali Language Specialist Ref. 3484

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

Job summary

An established industry player in the UK intelligence sector is seeking passionate Somali linguists to join their ranks. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to national security by analyzing and interpreting Somali materials. With a focus on cultural insights and language proficiency, you will play a crucial role in safeguarding the UK. Enjoy a supportive environment with comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside competitive benefits including annual leave and flexible working options. If you are eager to make a difference and possess strong Somali language skills, this position is perfect for you.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Performance recognition opportunities

Development budget

Flexible working options

Interest-free season ticket loan

Pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site gym and cafes

Paid parental and adoption leave

Qualifications

• Proficient in Somali language across reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
• Excellent understanding of Somali culture, history, and politics.

Responsibilities

• Analyze Somali materials and provide insights to support national security.
• Collaborate with teams to extract key information from various sources.

Skills

Somali language proficiency

Analytical thinking

Verbal communication

Written communication

Education

CEFR level C1 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 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 crucial 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. Support for language technology tools and interpretation is available, with full training provided. Working under pressure may be required, but full support from managers and linguists will be available. Collaboration across teams and organizations is essential, using language technology to piece together intelligence and support decisions.

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

Please note, all MI5 contracts include a mobility clause, which may require serving away from your usual place of work for periods of duty or training.

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

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

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. Confidence in verbal and written communication, analytical thinking, and pride in your insights are important qualities.

During the interview, you’ll need to pass a language proficiency test involving reading, translating newspaper articles and broadcasts, and interpreting audio materials. Results will be considered alongside role requirements. Travel expenses are not reimbursed.

Training and Development
You’ll receive a thorough induction on tools, methods, and ways of working. Comprehensive training will equip you with the skills needed for your role, including initial training on tools, context, and responsibilities.

At MI5, you’ll have access to language classes, immersion sessions, and internal courses, with support for language qualifications. GCHQ provides similar support, encouraging you to pursue interests in management, advanced language skills, or analytical capabilities, with funding available for qualifications like CertTrans and DipTrans.

Both agencies aim to support your growth, knowledge, and career development.

Rewards and Benefits
MI5 offers a starting salary of £39,152, with potential language allowances. GCHQ offers a starting salary of £36,408, with an additional £3,120 after a 6-month probation. Other benefits include:

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

Equal Opportunities
Diversity and inclusion are central to our mission. We seek a workforce reflecting society, welcoming applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled persons, and neurodivergent individuals. Learn more at:

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 be considered, demonstrate motivation to serve the UK intelligence community and pass the Somali language test.

What to Expect
Our recruitment process includes:

• Application and eligibility sift
• Language tests in London
• Interviews and assessment centers in London or Cheltenham

Travel expenses are not reimbursed. You must pass each stage to proceed. The process may take 9-12 months, including vetting, so continue current employment until final offer.

Before You Apply
Applicants must be UK citizens or dual nationals. Full eligibility details are available at:

• https://www.MI5.gov.uk/careers/applying-for-jobs
• https://www.GCHQ-careers.co.uk/how-to-apply.html

This role requires Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. More info at:

• https://www.MI5.gov.uk/careers/applying-for-jobs/vetting
• https://www.GCHQ-careers.co.uk/how-to-apply.html

Consider practicalities like residence and relocation costs. Only apply from within the UK, and keep application details confidential. The closing date may be brought forward as needed.