Exploitation Engineer
GCHQ is the United Kingdom's intelligence, security and cyber agency, working to identify, analyse and disrupt threats to the UK.
About Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ)
A UK public body whose statutory function includes foreign-focused signals intelligence. GCHQ uses technical capabilities, analysis and online effects across counter-terrorism, cyber security, serious and organised crime, strategic advantage and support to defence. It has publicly described responsible AI use in its national-security mission.
Skills
Candidate Availability
Required and preferred rules are kept separate and reflect the wording in the original posting.
About the Role
You will work in an Agile team to design, develop, test and deploy technical solutions for communications exploitation. You will use software, firmware and hardware engineering across the full lifecycle, conduct research and experimentation, and work with operators to deploy solutions across global networks and military platforms. You will develop software, signal-processing capabilities, AI applications, bespoke hardware and RF solutions.
Requirements
- Have studied a STEM subject through a diploma, foundation degree, apprenticeship or equivalent programme
- Have practical engineering or software-development experience
- Have experience with at least one modern programming language or framework such as C++, Go, Java, JavaScript, .NET, Node.js, Python or Rust
- Understand at least one of digital signal processing, telecommunications and signal protocols, RF engineering, or FPGA and VHDL
- Be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality
- Be able to obtain Developed Vetting
- Live within a commutable distance of Cheltenham
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, test and deploy technical solutions
- Apply software, firmware and hardware engineering across the engineering lifecycle
- Research, prototype and experiment with innovative approaches
- Develop software and signal-processing capabilities
- Apply AI to complex engineering challenges
- Design bespoke hardware and RF solutions
- Work with operators to deploy technologies across global networks and military platforms
- Travel occasionally to other GCHQ sites when required
Benefits
- Flexible working arrangements, including part-time work, compressed hours and flexible start and finish times
- 25 days of annual leave rising to 30 days after five years, plus 10.5 public and privilege holidays
- Interest-free season ticket loan
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Subsidised gym, restaurant and on-site coffee-bar facilities at some locations
- Paid parental and adoption leave
- Covered travel and accommodation for required overnight stays at another GCHQ site
- Technical learning and mentoring
Hiring Process
Initial online application and pre-screening questions → online Situational Judgement Test → in-person assessment centre.