Position Overview & Specifications

ABOUT YOU

You’ll have learned Mandarin to a very high academic standard, equivalent to at least degree or C1 level. You’ll certainly have a passion for the language - and an ability to translate its nuances into clear, well-drafted English.

Your linguistic skills need to be complemented by a good knowledge of Chinese culture, history, politics, ideology, and economy. You also need to combine this with an analytical, enquiring mind, possess good judgement and effective people skills.

To ensure you pass our language tests, you’ll need to be able to comfortably read newspaper articles and understand news broadcasts in Mandarin. You’ll be able to translate from Mandarin into clear, well-drafted English. Our Mandarin practice test will enable you to assess your suitability for a role at one of the agencies. The test does not reflect the full complexity of the challenges offered by our Mandarin specialist roles but is indicative of the type of skills successful candidates should be comfortable using on a routine basis.

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

MI5, MI6 and GCHQ have an inclusive and supportive working environment that’s designed to encourage open minds and attitudes. We value and nurture talent, and we’re committed to helping you to fulfil your potential. You’ll receive a structured comprehensive training and development package in language, analysis, and communications technology. Training will include classroom-based learning and hands-on training, which will enable you to grow your skills and perform to the best of your abilities. There are opportunities to develop your language skills, and allowances to reward your high level of language capability to meet business needs. New entrants can expect to have an individual in their team training and supporting them. We’ll also ensure you’re assigned a mentor when you start

Whatever your career path, you’ll be part of a community of dedicated and talented language specialists, working together to really make a difference.

REWARDS AND BENEFITS

At MI5 and MI6 you’ll receive a starting salary of £37,414-£38,027 with the possibility to qualify for additional language allowances once in role.

At GCHQ you’ll receive a starting salary of £32,092. Upon successful completion of the 6-month probationary period you will be eligible for an additional payment of £3,000 p.a. in recognition of your language skill. Other benefits include: