MI6

The Secret Intelligence Service, more commonly known as MI6, works with the UK’s overseas partners to support global stability by combating international terrorism and the spread of weapons. We work secretly around the world and in the UK, gathering intelligence to help stay ahead of our adversaries.

What are our opportunities?

If you’ve never considered a career in MI6, then you’re probably exactly who we’re looking for. Many graduates apply for our Intelligence Officer roles, using their strong communication skills and empathy to develop instrumental relationships. London-based at first, you will complete your initial training and then could be working overseas, experiencing new cultures and running intelligence-gathering operations.

You can also apply for our Business Support Officer roles, where your strong organisation and planning skills will be put to work across a variety of corporate and operational teams – both at home and potentially overseas. While you don’t need a degree for this role, it is still very popular with graduates.

We also recruit Software Engineers as part of the Technology Graduates Development Programme, ran jointly with MI5. Graduates receive a combination of on the job and more formal training, with future external and accredited training and qualifications funded by us to support your career. This is an annual programme and is usually open for applications in September/October.

We recruit in a number of other areas, including science and technology; trades & services; corporate services; and languages.

You can find out more about them on our website where you can also sign up for job alerts.

What makes MI6 different?

Since 1909, our people have been united by a single mission: to protect the security and economic wellbeing of the UK from overseas threats.

Regional instability, terrorism and cyber-attacks are just some of the major challenges facing the world in the 21st century. We help ensure the UK Government can counter these threats effectively through the provision of secret intelligence. Join us, and you’ll be providing vital support for this work, while learning from some of the best minds in their fields.

What are we looking for?

In terms of skills, you’ll be good at problem solving, communication, teamwork and focusing under pressure. Please remember – we don’t recruit a particular ‘type’ of person. It takes all sorts of people, from a range of backgrounds, to deliver our mission. We’re interested in you and your potential, not which school or university you went to.

Our unique work relies on people with unique perspectives, so we welcome applications from everyone – regardless of age, experience, cultural backgrounds or sexual orientation. As Disability Confident Leaders, we want you to feel supported throughout the recruitment process, so we offer reasonable adjustments to ensure those with disabilities, long-term health or neurodivergent conditions can perform at their best. We’re also committed to ensuring a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role will be offered an interview.

To be eligible to apply, you must be a British Citizen or hold dual British nationality. Candidates must normally have been resident in the UK for seven out of the last ten years. You can apply at the age of 17 years, if successful you will not be offered a start date prior to your 18th birthday. Full eligibility details.

Career development and progression opportunities

As an Intelligence Officer or Business Support Officer, you’ll receive training throughout your career. Because you’ll change roles every three years, you’ll also gain a range of skills and experience, while immersing yourself in projects vital to national security and building a career path unique to you.

Whatever your role, we aim to make your career with us as rewarding and enjoyable as possible. Depending on operational need, we’ll aim to give you a good work/life balance, including flexible working options such as part time and compressed hours; we are unable to offer home working due to the sensitive nature of our work. You’ll have access to excellent training and development opportunities, giving you the chance to strengthen your skills and shape your own career.