Applications for this job are now closed
At GCHQ, we unlock the complex world of data and communications to keep the UK and its citizens safe, both in the real world and online. Working closely with our British Intelligence partners in MI5 and MI6, we protect the UK from threats including serious organised crime, terrorism, and cyber-attacks. A role in GCHQ means you’ll have varied and fascinating work in a supportive and encouraging environment that puts the emphasis on teamwork.
Our Cyber Operations teams use bespoke technology to infiltrate the computers of terrorists and criminals. As a Cyber Operations Developer, you’ll bring your problem-solving and technical abilities to the team as you help discover and disrupt threats to national security. With your knowledge of programming languages and computer networking, you’ll think creatively to find solutions – and do truly unique work that doesn’t exist anywhere else.
Whether you’re identifying weaknesses in our targets’ software, or producing tooling to support operations, you’ll apply your cyber security skills to fascinating (and vital) projects. And, you’ll be doing it in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. With the support and guidance of your friendly colleagues, you’ll pick up new concepts quickly, communicate your ideas clearly, and support the cyber team in staying one step ahead.
As this is a highly technical role, you’ll need be able to work with range of internet and network technologies including IP, TCP, UDP, HTTP and DNS. Knowledge of programming languages such as Python, ++, Java, JavaScript, Rust and Assembly is also required. And of course, you’ll be naturally curious and have a genuine passion for the subject.
From day one, you’ll have a mentor and be surrounded by subject matter experts. And, we’ll support you with plenty of training and development opportunities, including covering the cost of formal technical courses. The skills you’ll develop in this role could range from operational infrastructure to the creation of sophisticated software; you’ll be encouraged to keep learning, explore new possibilities – and unlock your potential.
We believe that with the right mix of minds, anything is possible. To join, you’ll need to have (or be expecting) a 2:2 degree or higher in a STEM subject. We’d particularly welcome applications from women, as well as candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, who are currently underrepresented in our workforce. Join us, and we’ll provide a mentor, training opportunities, and unique, varied work that you won’t find anywhere else’.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a team doing truly unique work, develop a rewarding career – and help keep the UK safe.
What we offer
£32,092 you’ll also receive a one-off recruitment bonus of £3,000 and a specialist skills payment of £4,000. This will be split into two payments - £3,500 on arrival and £3,500 when you complete your probation
Full time, part time and compressed hours are feasible. Hybrid working from home is supported, with working from home allowed on occasion, subject to business need.
Additional information
At GCHQ diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. To protect the UK, we need a truly diverse workforce that reflects the society we serve. This includes diversity in every sense of the word: those with different backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ways of thinking and those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. We therefore welcome and encourage applications from everyone, including those from groups that are under-represented in our workforce such as women, those from an ethnic minority background, people with disabilities and those from low socio-economic backgrounds. Find out more about our culture, working environment and diversity on our website.
To be eligible to apply, you must be a British Citizen. If you hold dual nationality, of which one component is British, you will nonetheless be considered. Candidates must normally have been resident in the UK for seven out of the last ten years. This is particularly important if you were born outside the UK. You can apply at the age of 17 years, if successful you will not be offered a start date prior to your 18th birthday. Full eligibility details can be found on our website.
