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- Tasks: Join us for an 11-week paid internship using your language skills to analyze and translate materials.
- Company: GCHQ and MI5 protect the UK from threats, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and access to gym and restaurant perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your language and analytical skills.
- Qualifications: Open to those with a 2:2 degree in Russian or higher; adaptability and motivation are key.
- Other info: Potential for permanent positions and professional development opportunities after the internship.
Social network you want to login/join with:
Client:
GCHQ
Location:
Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
Job Category:
Other
EU work permit required:
Yes
Job Reference:
eff73b6c20c6
Job Views:
7
Posted:
03.03.2025
Expiry Date:
17.04.2025
Job Description:
Department Languages Location(s) Cheltenham, London, Manchester, Scarborough Salary £6,193 – £6,908 for the 11-week internship
Flexible working: This is a full-time role, and you will be based in the office for the duration of the Language Talent Programme.
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, you’ll deliver impact at the heart of national security, all within a supportive and inclusive environment that allows everyone to thrive.
The Role
In this exciting 11-week paid placement, you’ll use your language skills and cultural knowledge to make a real impact on our operations. Day to day, you’ll develop your understanding of language as you analyse, transcribe, and translate audio and written materials. Some of these materials may be technical or specialised in nature, giving you a chance to master new skills in a unique field, but it doesn’t stop there.
Here, your influence goes beyond language. Your cultural understanding will be invaluable as you collaborate closely with customers and partners, providing context for your team. In fact, you may even get the chance to draft Intelligence reports and conduct research using a variety of tools during your time with us. Equipped with specialist tools, you’ll uncover valuable insights that you’ll then present back to your team. Your work will be unique, varied and far from average. Importantly, you’ll be surrounded by colleagues who share your passion for languages, and you’ll get the opportunity to use your language skills and make an impact.
We have limited spaces in London, Cheltenham, Manchester and Scarborough, so we’d encourage you to be open and flexible with your application.
About You
We welcome applications if you have, or expect to obtain, a 2:2 degree or above in Russian, you’ll either be in the final year of your degree or have graduated in Summer 2021 or later. Whatever your background, you’ll be adaptable, motivated and collaborative, always keen to use your language skills and learn new things. You don’t need a technical background for this role, but you must be willing to pick up new skills – especially those that are technical and complement your language abilities.
Training and Development
From day one, we’ll be here to support you. Whether you join GCHQ or MI5, you’ll receive a comprehensive training and development package in both language and analysis, including classroom-based learning and hands-on training, which will enable you to grow your skills and perform to the best of your abilities. Throughout your internship and career, you’ll be supported by trained professionals.
We’re committed to developing our staff, but we know this will look different for everyone. That’s why there’ll be lots of tailored training, coaching and mentoring as we work with you to build the skills you need, enabling you to excel throughout your internship and chosen career. At MI5 and GCHQ, you’ll find an inclusive and supportive working environment that’s designed to encourage open minds and attitudes. We value and nurture talent and are committed to helping you fulfil your potential.
At GCHQ, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a permanent position with us once you’ve completed the programme. If successful in your tests and competency interview, you’ll join our vibrant community as a Language Specialist.
If you do decide to join us as a Language Specialist, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for our Language Career Development Scheme within the first five years of working at GCHQ. This scheme is designed to help you broaden and develop your language skills. In addition to this, you’ll also have the chance to become a member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIoL) and gain recognised professional linguist qualifications.
At MI5, you’ll have a personal mentor who will introduce you to the organisation, and a language mentor who will enhance your language skills. This mentor will tailor practice materials to your needs to prepare you for your language test. Plus, as one of the government’s leading employers of linguists, when you join us, you’ll become part of a vibrant network of language enthusiasts who share your love of language.
Like GCHQ, you’ll also have the opportunity to apply for a permanent MI5 position at the end of your placement. As a permanent member of our team, you’ll be provided with regular language lessons so you can maintain and develop your skills and become part of a thriving linguist community.
Please note, the MI5 roles are based in London, and the GCHQ roles are based in Cheltenham, Manchester and Scarborough.
Rewards and Benefits
At GCHQ you’ll receive a starting salary of £6,193. Applicants who pass the end-of-programme graduate-entry language tests and assessment centre, and who are made and accept an offer of employment at our agency, will receive a starting salary in excess of £34,663.
At MI5 you’ll receive a starting salary of £6,908. Applicants who pass the end-of-programme graduate-entry language tests and assessment centre, and who are made and accept an offer of employment at our agency, will receive a starting salary of £37,281.
On the 11 – week Internship you’ll receive a salary of £6,193 – £6,908 dependent on the organisation, plus other benefits including:
- 5 days of annual leave during the internship
- Access to a subsidised gym, restaurant, and on-site coffee bars in the Cheltenham office
Equal Opportunities
At GCHQ and MI5 diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. To protect the UK, we need a truly diverse workforce that reflects the society we serve. This includes diversity in every sense of the word: those with different backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ways of thinking and those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. We therefore welcome and encourage applications from everyone, including those from groups that are under-represented in our workforce such as women, those from an ethnic minority background, people with disabilities and those from low socio-economic backgrounds.
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Language Talent Programme – Russian Ref. 3264 employer: TN United Kingdom
Contact Detail:
TN United Kingdom Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Language Talent Programme – Russian Ref. 3264
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific language and cultural nuances of Russian. This will not only help you in your role but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the context in which you'll be working.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former interns at GCHQ or MI5. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and what to expect during the internship, giving you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to showcase your adaptability and willingness to learn new technical skills. Highlight any experiences where you've successfully picked up new skills quickly, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends and challenges in national security and intelligence. Being knowledgeable about current events will help you engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and show your genuine interest in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Language Talent Programme – Russian Ref. 3264
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Language Talent Programme. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to emphasize your language skills, cultural knowledge, and any relevant experiences. Use specific examples that demonstrate your adaptability and motivation, as these are key traits for this position.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for languages and your interest in national security. Mention why you want to work with GCHQ or MI5 and how you can contribute to their mission.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at TN United Kingdom
✨Showcase Your Language Skills
Be prepared to demonstrate your proficiency in Russian during the interview. This could involve translating a short text or discussing your experiences with the language, so practice speaking and writing in Russian beforehand.
✨Understand the Role's Impact
Research how language skills contribute to national security and the specific missions of GCHQ and MI5. Be ready to discuss how your cultural knowledge can enhance your work and provide context for your team.
✨Emphasize Adaptability and Motivation
Highlight your willingness to learn new technical skills that complement your language abilities. Share examples from your past where you adapted to new challenges or environments, showcasing your collaborative spirit.
✨Prepare Questions About Training and Development
Show your interest in personal growth by preparing thoughtful questions about the training and development opportunities available during the internship. This demonstrates your commitment to making the most of the experience.
