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 work in an Agile team to solve complex technical challenges using modern software engineering methods, languages and frameworks. You will contribute to projects across on-premises and cloud-based environments, collaborate with engineers to deliver scalable systems, share knowledge, and take ownership of your work. Occasional travel to another GCHQ site may be required.
Requirements
- Programming fundamentals and proficiency in at least one of Go, Java, JavaScript, Node.js, Python or Rust
- Higher education STEM background through a degree, apprenticeship or equivalent qualification
- Practical software engineering experience from projects, employment, internships or placements
- British citizenship or dual British nationality
- Eligibility for Developed Vetting
Responsibilities
- Solve complex technical challenges in an Agile team
- Develop software using modern languages and frameworks
- Contribute to on-premises and cloud-based solutions
- Deliver innovative and scalable systems with other engineers
- Share knowledge with the engineering community
- Take ownership of assigned work
Benefits
- Flexible working arrangements including part-time work, compressed hours, and flexible start and finish times
- £2,000 recruitment bonus
- Minimum 30% of working time for development activities
- Training through courses, conferences, technical communities, self-directed study and project-based learning
- Funding for relevant qualifications and certifications
- 25 days' annual leave rising to 30 days after five years, plus 10.5 public and privilege holidays
- Employee performance recognition scheme
- Interest-free season ticket loan
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Subsidised gym, restaurant and on-site coffee bars at some locations
- Paid parental and adoption leave
- Travel and accommodation expenses for required overnight travel to another GCHQ site
- Travel-cost reimbursement for eligible in-person recruitment and vetting appointments
Hiring Process
Online application with pre-screening questions → online Situational Judgement Test → in-person assessment centre.