At a Glance
- Tasks: Translate and interpret foreign language content for national security.
- Company: Join GCHQ and MI5, the UK's leading intelligence services.
- Benefits: Earn £6,380 to £7,059 for an 11-week full-time programme with training.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safeguarding Britain while developing your language skills.
- Qualifications: 2:2 degree or above in Russian or Mandarin; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 6380 - 7059 £ per year.
Closing Date – 23:00 on Sunday 26th July 2026
Language Specialists £6,380 to £7,059 dependent on location for the 11‑week programme.
Flexible working: this programme is full‑time and office‑based for the duration of the 11 weeks, ensuring you get the most out of your time. Full‑time attendance is 36‑37 hours per week, with specific hourly attendance required for training courses, notified in advance.
About us
GCHQ and MI5 are part of the UK’s Intelligence Services. We work together to safeguard Britain’s people, interests, and businesses from various threats at home, overseas, and online, including cyber‑attacks, espionage, terrorism, and organised crime. Working across our vital missions, we deliver impact at the heart of national security within a supportive and inclusive environment that allows everyone to thrive.
About the programme
Language Specialists play a uniquely valuable role translating, interpreting and contextualising foreign language content, providing mission‑critical insights that influence operations. The Language Talent Programme is an 11‑week paid programme providing a pathway to becoming a specialist in Russian or Mandarin on a permanent basis. With dedicated training, support and on‑the‑job exposure, it equips you with the skills and experience required to apply and fulfil a full‑time role with us. You need not have previous experience or technical ability, but you will have, or be expected to obtain, a 2:2 degree or above in Russian or Mandarin. Applicants should be starting the final year of their degree in Autumn 2026, or have graduated in Summer 2023 or later.
What you will do
- Begin with a three‑day induction to GCHQ or MI5 and our ways of working.
- Gain privileged access to operational intelligence, language tools and a range of audio and written materials which you will analyse, transcribe and translate, supervised by a mentor.
- Be embedded within a friendly, welcoming team that shares your love for language.
- Develop the skills needed to pass the language test element of the full‑time role assessment, with the support of an experienced linguist.
Around 7‑9 weeks in, you will sit your language test and competency interview. If successful, you will move directly into a role as a Language Specialist with either GCHQ or MI5. We ask that you only apply if you can start a full‑time role immediately after the programme ends.
Location details
The Mandarin programme is available at GCHQ in Cheltenham or Manchester. The Russian programme can be conducted at GCHQ in Manchester or Cheltenham, or MI5 in London. Applicants must live within a commutable distance; a relocation loan is available to support moves to London.
Eligibility
- British citizen or dual British nationality.
- Compliance with our no‑drugs policy from the point of application and undergo Developed Vetting if successful.
- Familiarisation with guidance on the use of AI in applications for GCHQ and MI5.
- Complete all registration, application and recruitment processes from within the UK.
All applications are assessed solely on merit.
Language Talent Programme - Registration of Interest in Cheltenham employer: GCHQ Careers
GCHQ and MI5 offer an exceptional opportunity for aspiring Language Specialists through their Language Talent Programme, set in the vibrant locations of Cheltenham, Manchester, and London. With a strong commitment to employee growth, this 11-week paid programme provides comprehensive training, mentorship, and the chance to contribute to national security in a supportive and inclusive environment. Join a team that values your passion for language and equips you with the skills needed for a rewarding career in intelligence.
