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 maintainable software and establish engineering practices. You will define code-review, branching and deployment strategies, review pull requests, lead Agile work, mentor others and communicate technical decisions to stakeholders. You will apply modern languages, cloud platforms and software engineering methods to complex technical challenges.
Requirements
- Software engineering experience in complex technical environments
- JavaScript, Java, Node.js, Python, Rust or Go
- Cloud platform experience with AWS, Azure or GCP
- Experience leading Agile project teams
- Experience evaluating customer business requirements
- Knowledge of software engineering principles
- Ability to mentor others
- For Cheltenham roles, experience may include C++, Golang, CMake, Helm, YAML, JSON, containerisation, Vcpkg, observability, DevOps, Kubernetes, systems administration or Linux
- British citizenship or dual British nationality
- Developed Vetting clearance
- Ability to live within commuting distance of Cheltenham or Manchester
Responsibilities
- Design and architect new and existing software systems
- Deliver high-quality, maintainable software solutions
- Define code-review, branching and deployment strategies
- Review pull requests
- Apply software engineering methodologies and practices
- Lead and mentor engineering teams
- Lead Agile project teams
- Evaluate customer business requirements
- Communicate technical information to technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Improve software quality, productivity and delivery
Benefits
- Flexible working patterns, including full-time, part-time and compressed hours
- Hybrid working and some homeworking subject to business needs
- Flexible start and finish times where possible
- 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
- On-site gym, restaurant and coffee bars where available
- Paid parental and adoption leave
- One-off recruitment bonus
- Up to 30% of time dedicated to personal development
Hiring Process
Initial online application and eligibility screening; online Situational Judgement Test; technical and competency-based interview including a presentation; conditional offer of employment subject to vetting.