Software Engineers
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 technical challenges and deliver scalable software across on-premises and cloud environments. You will use modern languages and frameworks, contribute to large-scale projects, share knowledge, and take ownership of your work. You may occasionally travel to another site.
Requirements
- Demonstrate solid programming fundamentals
- Demonstrate proficiency in at least one modern language or framework, such as Go, Java, JavaScript, Node.js, Python, or Rust
- Have a higher education STEM background through a degree, apprenticeship, or equivalent qualification
- Have practical software engineering experience through projects, employment, internships, or placements
- Communicate clearly with technical and non-technical audiences
- Be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality
- Be able to obtain Developed Vetting clearance
- Live within commutable distance of Manchester
Responsibilities
- Solve complex technical challenges using software engineering methods, languages, and frameworks
- Develop and deliver scalable systems across on-premises and cloud environments
- Contribute to meaningful and large-scale software projects
- Collaborate with engineers to deliver solutions
- Share knowledge with the engineering community
- Take ownership of technical work
- Travel occasionally to another GCHQ site when required
Benefits
- Flexible working arrangements, including part-time and compressed hours
- Flexible start and finish times where business needs allow
- 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 on-site gym, restaurant, and coffee bars at some locations
- Paid parental and adoption leave
- Travel and accommodation expenses for required overnight travel
Hiring Process
Initial online application with pre-screening questions → online Situational Judgement Test → in-person assessment centre.