Flexible Linguist – Various Languages - Registration of Interest in Manchester

Every language is a lens through which to see the world. As a Flexible Linguist, you’ll help us see things differently through your language’s unique perspective. You’ll bring your expertise to our welcoming language community and apply your skills to work that supports the UK’s national security. Excited to help us reveal the bigger picture? Register your interest today and join one of our online events.

MI5, MI6 and GCHQ are the UK’s Intelligence Services. We work together to safeguard Britain’s people, interests and businesses from a range of threats at home, overseas and online, including cyberattacks, espionage, terrorism, and organised crime. Working across our vital missions, you’ll deliver impact at the heart of national security, all within a supportive and inclusive environment that enables everyone to thrive.

This role is about more than translation. You’ll analyse a wide range of language materials to help us understand the context and hidden meanings that shape understanding across our missions. Although much of your work will be completed independently, you’ll be part of a friendly, engaging community of linguists who share your passion and curiosity. Plus, you’ll receive comprehensive training on our tools and systems, as well as further development opportunities to grow your skills over time.

There’s no single ‘type’ of person we’re looking for. You might be a heritage speaker, a graduate passionate about languages, or someone who uses one of these languages in everyday life. If you’d like to learn more about what the role involves and what it’s like to work here, we’ll be running online events to give you the chance to ask questions and gain helpful insight before you apply.

Our virtual events, hosted on our Meet & Engage platform, will take place on 13th and 14th April 2026 and will continue at key points throughout the recruitment process. Each session will last for one hour.

Do you speak or feel comfortable communicating in any of the following languages? If you speak a regional dialect of the language, we would still encourage you to register. We also appreciate there may be multiple spellings of the languages listed below:

• Oromo
• Amharic
• Luganda
• Bulgarian
• Vietnamese

You’ll also need fluent English and a good understanding of the culture, context and communities associated with your language. Ideally, you’ll be working at C1 level in CEFR terms (or equivalent). At this level, you can:

• understand longer, more complex texts or conversations
• express ideas clearly with minimal searching for words
• use the language effectively in social, academic or professional settings
• produce well-structured, detailed written material

Your proficiency may come from academic study, community use, heritage background or lived experience – all backgrounds are welcome. You’ll also be comfortable working independently and using technology confidently.

Applications will open on Monday 20th April 2026, but you don’t need to make a decision now. Our online events are an opportunity to learn more about the role, ask questions and decide whether it’s the right fit for you.

Please note: Registering your interest does not constitute a job application, nor will it have any bearing on the recruitment process. Anyone who registers interest and later decides to apply for the Flexible Linguist role will need to complete an application form once the application window opens. All applications will be assessed solely on merit.

To be eligible to apply, you must be a British Citizen. If you hold dual nationality and one of the nationalities is British, you will still be considered. Candidates must normally have been resident in the UK for seven out of the last ten years. This is particularly important if you were born outside the UK. You may apply at the age of 17; however, if successful, you will not be offered a start date before your 18th birthday. Full eligibility details can be found on our website.