Language Specialists

Using linguistic and cultural knowledge to support operations

What does an Language Specialist do?

Our language specialists use their cultural and linguistic knowledge to support overseas operations. This could be by translating, analysing and contextualising both written and audio materials, or by advising on cultural issues that influence people from a particular region.

A career as a Language Specialist

Whether you grew up in a multilingual household, you’ve studied languages at university, or lived abroad, there is a role in MI6 for you. You don’t need a degree or interpretation or translation experience – but excellent language expertise and an in-depth understanding of a country’s history, culture, ideology and politics is important.

You’ll use your skills to uncover hidden information in language materials and turn this into accessible and digestible information for other teams. You can expect extensive and structured training and development in language, analysis and communications technologies.

“I found there were plenty of opportunities to expand the scope of my job. I started training as an interpreter, which offered me a new skill set and meant I could get involved in lots of different projects across MI6. I’ve also helped with role playing in training exercises. ”

Alex, Arabic Language Specialist

What you can expect as a Language Specialist

Watch our video to learn more about life as a Language Specialist at MI6.

Description not needed: The visuals in this video only support what is spoken; the visuals do not provide additional information.

Application process

For Language Specialists

Stage 1 of 7

After each stage we’ll assess your suitability before you go onto the next stage. First, register online.

Application process

For Language Specialists

Stage 2 of 11

Complete an online application form.

Application process

For Language Specialists

Stage 3 of 7

Attend a language testing day.

Application process

For Language Specialists

Stage 4 of 11

Attend a one-day assessment centre.

Application process

For Language Specialists

Stage 5 of 11

Receive a conditional job offer, dependent on passing security vetting.

Application process

For Language Specialists

Stage 6 of 11

Security vetting.

(This can take around six months and vetting approval is not guaranteed.)

Application process

For Language Specialists

Stage 7 of 11

Receive a formal job offer.

Are you right for the role?

Eligibility

Nationality

You need to be a British Citizen (if you hold dual nationality then one component will need to be British).

Skills and experience

You don’t need experience or qualifications to be a Language Specialist with us, just active and passive language skills, excellent written English and thorough knowledge of a country’s history, culture, ideology, and politics. Essentially, you’ll be passionate about the language and a proficient user – at C1 level – of it in all its forms.

Security Vetting

You will need to be willing to undergo security clearance. For more info on this, please see our Vetting page.

Visit our Vetting page

Find out more about eligibility

About us

Careers

Working at MI6

How to apply