Senior Software 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 design and architect new and existing systems, deliver high-quality software, and establish engineering practices for code review, branching, and deployment. You will review pull requests, lead or mentor engineers, evaluate customer requirements, and communicate technical information to technical and non-technical stakeholders. You will apply modern software engineering methods and improve delivery across varied technologies.
Requirements
- Demonstrate expertise in modern software engineering frameworks and technologies
- Use JavaScript, Java, Node.js, Python, Rust, Go, or Golang
- Demonstrate experience with AWS, Azure, and GCP
- Lead Agile technical project teams
- Take ownership of technical projects or work
- Apply software engineering principles in complex technical environments
- Be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality
- Obtain Developed Vetting clearance
- Live within commutable distance of Cheltenham or Manchester
Responsibilities
- Design and architect new and existing systems
- Deliver high-quality software solutions
- Define code-review, branching, and deployment strategies
- Review pull requests
- Lead and mentor engineers
- Evaluate customer business requirements
- Apply software engineering principles to maintain and improve software
- Communicate technical information to technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Establish and promote engineering best practices
Benefits
- One-off recruitment bonus of £3,500, paid in two instalments
- Flexible working patterns, including full-time, part-time, compressed hours, and flexible start and finish times where possible
- 25 days of annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years of service, plus 10.5 days of public and privilege holidays
- Employee performance recognition scheme
- Interest-free season ticket loan
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- On-site gym, restaurant, and coffee bars at some locations
- Paid parental and adoption leave
Hiring Process
Initial online application and pre-screening questions → online Situational Judgement Test → technical and competency-based interview including a presentation → conditional offer subject to vetting.