explore another world

Opportunities 03 Intro gg C on rrkkiinn ten w woo t “I love the thrill of fo f s y os working on real stuff ysa a w Page that applies to the eww n 03 Intro rw here and now; there’s ee 04 About us vn o nothing more rewarding cr 06 The people we need se than watching the vi 08 The roles: oD news, seeing a story c – Cyber Security & Information sk iu Assurance . break, and knowing Do c – Information & Communications I contributed to that . Technology (ICT) Research ek in some way.” uc – Other Computer Science, n. oe IT and Technical roles Protecting Britain’s electronic

cg i communications and digital space, . 10 – Mathematics l sl Government Communications e r – Language & Culture Specialists t Headquarters (GCHQ) intercepts and e n – Information Specialists interprets information to stay ahead of the e i

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n E E See things that others don’t “There is frequently misunderstanding around what GCHQ does, and many people make the mistake of 04 About us thinking we are MI5 or MI6. All three “Every day is different and there is agencies have their constant change, so it never feels like own identity and are it’s getting stale. There’s also a real unique in what they creative buzz and a thirst for new ideas.” do. It just happens that we come together As one of the UK’s intelligence and security As the threats to the UK’s security and GCHQ) offers world-class advice and with one central agencies, we gather and analyse digital and economy become increasingly complex, consultancy on information security issues electronic signals from many channels, from we’re working more closely than ever before to customers and government worldwide. mission – to safeguard all corners of the world. Converting this with other members of the intelligence GCHQ also hosts the UK Cyber Security Discover new ways of working information into intelligence material, we community. Bringing together the ‘human Operations Centre (CSOC), through which UK interests.” play a significant role in informing national intelligence’ focus of MI5 and MI6 and expertise is concentrated on understanding security, military operations, police activity our electronic or ‘signals intelligence’ threats and exploiting opportunities in and foreign policy. Our customers include as it’s known, we’re even better placed to cyber space. government organisations such as the tackle an ever evolving range of external, So, as you’ll see, what we do is unique, Ministry of Defence and the Foreign & global threats. challenging and rewarding. It will expose Commonwealth Office, as well as law Of all the challenges we face, cyber threats you to a variety of new experiences, new enforcement agencies. are the fastest growing. Tasked with being ways of working, and new ways to grow Our HQ is in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, the Government’s expert in cyber security, your expertise. and we have smaller stations in Yorkshire we’re growing our expertise to help ensure k and Cornwall. Most of our 5,000+ people that the UK can live and work online with .u o are based in Cheltenham, together with confidence. Crucial to this work is CESG c . s some of the world’s most powerful computing – the UK’s national technical authority for r e equipment and cutting edge technology. Information Assurance. CESG (as part of e r a c -

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05 06 The people we need

A large and complex business, the work we do requires expertise in a number of specialist areas. While many of our roles offer entry routes for degree qualified individuals, we also recruit people with professional qualifications or significant work experience, and those with rare language capability. There are also opportunities for apprentices, students and those with at least 5 GCSEs (including Maths, English and an IT related or Science subject at grade C or above) or equivalent.

Everyone who joins us, no matter what level they are in the organisation, has access to training and development opportunities. Due to the unique and challenging nature of our work, you’ll discover an ideal environment in which to explore your ability and take your experience to whole new levels.

Professional & Student level: w “From the second I experienced hires: Sponsorships/Placements; w w . Specialist IT, Electronic Communications; Technical Apprentices. gc walked through the hq Cyber Security & Information Assurance -c are ers. front door I knew I roles; Systems/Software Engineering; 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) co.uk IT Project Management; Language or more: was part of something Analysts; Information Specialists; Technical Apprentices; First line Corporate Support (e.g. Procurement, special. To work for IT support; Finance. Finance, Project Management, etc) an organisation where Graduate entry level or drive and motivation equivalent (e.g. native level comes not from ability for Language “We all aspire to become experts in our Analysts): money, but from the Language Analysts; Cyber Security & work so that we are able to not only opportunity to do Information Assurance roles; Mathematics; understand how our adversaries operate, Computer Science, IT, ICT Research, extraordinary things Software Engineering and Electronic but also protect our very own communications for your country gives Engineering roles; Information Specialists; plus our Leadership Development Scheme. – such as those used by Central Government, me an immense sense or by armed forces engaged in conflict.” of achievement.” 07 08 The roles

These are some of the main career streams that we recruit to:

Cyber Security & Information & Other Computer Science, Information Assurance Communications IT & Technical roles Technology (ICT) Research

The UK is constantly under attack. Carrying out pioneering research across We operate in one of the most diverse, Cyberspace is vital for the prosperity of a wide range of technologies, our teams technically challenging IT cultures. Our the UK and for our way of life. It brings work to develop innovative techniques and work involves tailoring and re-engineering many opportunities for businesses and applications to deliver new solutions and emerging technologies and systems to our people, but also numerous threats. Every prototype systems. They also explore how own unique needs, as well as developing internet connection is a gateway through we can integrate emerging technologies hardware and software solutions to which hackers, money launderers and into our operational work. highly complex problems. These roles even terrorists could launch an assault are critical to keeping our operations Ours is a highly creative and cutting-edge on national security. However, by using running and advancing our capabilities, technical environment. So we’re looking and creating some of the world’s most and typically include: advanced technology, we’re fighting back. for inquisitive people who can take the initiative, seize new opportunities and rise Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Our diverse teams of experts apply their to complex challenges. Telecomms Engineering, IT Infrastructure, skills, imagination and innovation to take IT Service Management (including First Line You could be involved in a variety of work, on hugely complex technical challenges; IT Support) and IT Project Management. supporting major Government ICT including High Speed Internet Processing, programmes to ensure appropriate levels Hardware, Network Exploration, Data We recruit experienced people and at of security are built in. Every day brings Mining, Natural Language Processing, graduate entry level for most of these new problems to solve – researching and Mobile Technology, Internet Research and areas, while our First Line IT Support developing new methods of safeguarding Stream Analysis. positions are available to those with a critical data, intercepting and decoding minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent). For all roles in these areas you should information and exploiting opportunities to Whichever role you’re interested in, have, or be studying towards, a minimum secure the advantage. you’ll need to be an innovative thinker 2:1 honours degree in a single or joint and problem solver, and a confident We recruit experienced people and at technical subject such as Applied decision maker. graduate entry level for these roles. (At Mathematics, Physics, Electronic graduate entry level we look for individuals Engineering, Computer Science or any with a degree in a STEM related subject other numerate or technical discipline. www.gchq-careers.co.uk (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics), preferably with a significant IT component). 09 10 The roles “There’s been a real mix of on the job training and structured tuition, and I’ve even learnt a new programming language along the way.”

Mathematics Language Analysts Information Specialists Leadership Development Scheme

We are one of the UK’s top employers of GCHQ employs more language specialists The GCHQ Information team provides On this in-depth, bespoke development mathematicians (outside of academia). than anyone else in the country, so we have electronic information and other resources programme you’ll benefit from formal Our teams – some of the nation’s top a vibrant linguist community – and plenty of to the whole of GCHQ as well as to our training, individual mentoring and mathematical minds – work on some of people to share your passion for language front-line teams and external customers. supervision, and carefully selected the world’s most complex problems. and other cultures. The largest professional information placements which will challenge and grow Whether they’re investigating Joining our team of front-line analysts, service in government, not only is our your ability on increasingly complex cryptographic security, modelling you’ll piece together snippets of service recognised as a model of best projects. You could be based in any area statistical patterns in challenging data or information collected from a variety practice – it also offers you the opportunity of GCHQ – from working with the developing new algorithms for novel of electronic communication channels. to broaden your experience and skill Operations teams to supporting HR, computer architectures, every day brings You’ll apply your knowledge of language set on rotation across different areas. Finance or IT activities. So, whether you them a new challenge to stretch their and how it is used – with all of its cultural Our activities include research and ultimately choose to focus on front-line intellectual ability, and new opportunities references – to analyse this information enquiries, knowledge management, activities or corporate support, you’ll gain for advanced research. Joining them, you and find the real meaning behind every information architecture, and search all the skills, experience and knowledge could develop your expertise in a number exchange. Writing reports and working and retrieval tools and techniques. you need to be considered for a senior of areas including cryptographic design leadership role within a few years of joining with colleagues from other areas, you’ll To join us, you’ll need a professional and evaluation, diagnosis of encryption the organisation. However, this isn’t a fast help us see the bigger picture of exactly Information Science/Librarianship and covert communications, advanced track programme. In fact, in can last for up what’s happening, where and when. qualification. and quantum algorithms, software to six years, with placements of between development, cloud computing – and We recruit both graduates and non 6 -12 months at a time. It’s intensive, more. Mathematicians also play a key role graduates (native tongue) to our language and it’s rigorous – so you’ll need to be in our cyber and information assurance roles. Our requirements change as our fully committed. areas, so opportunities are available mission evolves, so register your interest k .u To join this scheme, you’ll need at least throughout the department; consequently on our website to receive an email alert or co s. there is lots of scope to have a varied and RSS feed on the latest opportunities. er a 2:1 degree. However, your potential are q-c leadership skills (we’re looking for the diverse career. gch www. ability to weigh up complex information, So if you’ve got a good degree in Maths make confident decisions and influence at or a related discipline, this is the ideal all levels) will really be key to your success. place to make the most of your passion for problem solving.

11 12 The roles “I can’t go into the specifics (for obvious reasons) Purchasing & Procurement options. Whichever you choose – whether in either Cheltenham or London. There it’s a Summer Placement, Industrial you’ll be involved in real-world tasks but just recently I was involved in an operation Our increasing focus on the cyber agenda Placement Year, Final Year or Two Years’ of a research, development or project and demanding portfolio of work make sponsorship, you’ll gain a real insight into nature, obtaining the practical experience that potentially saved countless lives – there value for money and cost-effective our work. You could also benefit from an and evidence you need to complete your aren’t many jobs where you can say that!” contracts more important than ever. annual bursary and a grant for books and apprenticeship. Going out to tender, negotiating contracts, software too. During this time you’ll be paid a salary, managing their delivery and maintaining You’ll be treated as one of the team, and after successful completion of your supplier relationships, our 70-strong and you’ll be exposed to real work and apprenticeship, you’ll gain Foundation Procurement team delivers cost-effective, responsibility from the outset. In fact, many Degree and a Level 4 Diploma in IT Corporate Support Project Management innovative solutions to enable the success of our students have made a real difference Professional Competence. There may of a diverse range of projects supporting to our operations. Some students may also be the option for continued learning While the majority of our roles involve Some of these roles are helping our As technology continues to evolve at a our mission. So, whether you join us in a also be given the opportunity to convert to attain a full (Bsc) degree as well as collecting and analysing vital intelligence, front-line operations, others will be rapid pace, so does our work. And, with category management, commercial policy, their placement into a full time role upon the opportunity to take up a permanent our success also depends on the vital supporting our people, or working to a high volume and wide range of activity, supplier relationship management or completion of their studies (although there position within the intelligence community support of a number of other experts in the improve the way we deliver information to our Project Managers are rarely asked to any other role, you can be sure that your is no obligation from either side). in Cheltenham, London or indeed any of following areas: our customers. Whatever you’re doing, you manage the same kind of project twice. contribution will be valued. our locations in the UK. can be sure that your contribution will be So you’ll enjoy plenty of variety here. From You’ll need to apply the year before • Accountancy & Finance You’ll also benefit from our commitment valued and that you’ll be playing your part initiation to execution you’ll make the most you’d like the sponsorship to start. To apply, you should have (or be about to • Audit to your professional development. CIPS in supporting the GCHQ mission. of your skills throughout the project life For more about your options – and achieve) 3 A Levels (at least Grade C) – two • Contracts Management cycle, planning and delivering requirements certified since 2005, we were the first Primarily we recruit experienced people for to apply – please visit our website. of which must be in STEM related subjects • Commercial Managers for a wide range of Information Assurance organisation to be certified according these roles, but occasionally have graduate – together with 5 GCSEs, including English • Project Management customers. And, as you enable them to to the new CIPS Certification Standard (Please note that, due to the entry level positions available. and Mathematics, at Grade C or above. • Purchasing & Procurement advise and assist with the security of in June 2012. So, with us, you can sensitive nature of our work, develop your expertise in a systemic unfortunately we are unable to • Vetting Officers We recruit throughout the year to various communications and electronic data, roles, but we generally have an ongoing ultimately you’ll help safeguard the UK procurement environment that operates offer general work experience.) need within the following two areas: against the growing threat of cyber crime. best-in-class professional procurement and supply practices. These roles are primarily based at our Higher Apprenticeships Cheltenham site, but you may also in IT, Software, Internet ww Sponsorships/Placements w. have the opportunity to work with our & Telecomms gch q- partner organisations. Your role, and the ca We run this programme specifically for re projects you’re involved in, will depend Our two year programme will see er s. undergraduates who have a real passion co upon your skills and experience. But you helping to build and maintain .u for and focus on technology. Offering k whichever role you join us in you’ll have some of the world’s most invaluable practical experience, it’s open access to a range of formal and informal sophisticated electrical and to those studying for their first degree in development opportunities. electronic equipment. You’ll be a STEM subject (Science, Technology, based in Cheltenham in your Engineering or Maths), preferably with a first year, but during your second significant IT component. year there will be work based With programmes covering many of our placements in one of the Intelligence technical disciplines you’ll have several Services – so you could be based

Protect UK interests

13 14 Our working environment

Known locally as the ‘doughnut’ because We’re immensely proud of what we do In the heart of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham of its unique shape, our purpose-built, here. And we’re immensely proud of our is a popular spa town, offering a choice of state-of-the-art building in Cheltenham people. So, with an exceptional welfare housing and education, excellent shopping provides an inspiring workplace. Its circular and support infrastructure, we do all that and good communication links with design means that our employees are we can to help them be their best – both London, Cardiff, Oxford, Bristol and never more than five minutes walk from in and out of work. Enabling a healthy Birmingham. Cheltenham is also home to a each other – enhancing our collaborative work-life balance is extremely important number of internationally famous festivals, environment and knowledge-sharing ethos. to us, and so most of our people enjoy with plenty of places to watch and take At the heart of the building is the ‘Street’. flexible working. part in sports, appreciate the arts or Not only is it the primary navigation route, socialise with friends and family. but it also offers a range of facilities www.gchq-careers.co.uk including a shop, restaurant, deli bar, coffee shops and a gym.

We provide an informal and collaborative working environment where people are “Before joining I had a view that it able to develop and share their ideas, and formulate innovative approaches to would be very technical and IT related, challenging problems. but in reality the actual environment “The local area’s also got and people are more diverse than you loads to offer. There’s would ever expect.” a great mix of town and country, so pretty much whatever you’re into you can still enjoy it. Whether that’s hiking boots or kitten heels, real ale or Kir Royale.”

15 16 Our culture 17 Training Salary and and development benefits

Everyone here – whatever their role, Your salary will depend upon the role you We’re here to protect the interests of all whatever their experience – benefits from apply for, but a typical Apprenticeship salary British people, so we’re doing a lot to make development opportunities. is c£16.5k, other entry level roles start at our working environment appropriate to the c£19k, and c£25k at graduate level (again, wide range of personalities, backgrounds It’s not just about ensuring you have the depending upon the role). People offering and talents in the British population. right skills to do the job at hand. Our aim is experience or additional skills may be This includes a commitment to making to understand you and what motivates you eligible for more senior positions or an reasonable workplace adjustments for – and, by matching your talents with our enhanced salary. business needs, help you to progress and people with disabilities. We’ve also You’ll also be eligible for a range of benefits, realise your full potential. developed an award-winning Dyslexia and including the Civil Service pension scheme Dyspraxia Toolkit. We have established We invest heavily in you and your and our internal Employee Assistance support networks for women, disabled, development, with industry leading service (which aims to help individuals with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and training, in house courses, seminars and any problem or crisis, work related or black and minority ethnic employees. conferences, and a real commitment to personal). Our maternity and paternity leave We offer a prayer room for different religions your professional development throughout policies are generous and flexible to help too. We’ve done all of this, not because at every level of the organisation. you cope with the demands of a new child, we have to, but because we want you – while we can also help with the provision of whoever you are – to feel welcome, As an established Investor in People (IIP), childcare facilities in school holidays. we offer continuous personal development. valued and respected. We offer a range of flexible working With the support of mentors, managers patterns, including the option to ‘earn’ an We want you to enjoy yourself too. and training officers, you’ll have access additional 4 days off per month – on top of So, while we work hard, we offer plenty to a range of formal and informal a generous holiday allowance. So whatever of opportunities for our people to have fun development opportunities. And, where your caring commitments or individual and get together in their free time. Whether appropriate, we’ll support you to study needs outside work, there’s a working that’s through getting involved with our for professional qualifications. pattern to suit your lifestyle. Special leave sporting societies – from football to netball, You’ll also have the opportunity to develop may also be granted to take part in swimming, sailing and more – or any of a a deeper knowledge in a particular area or, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) k wide variety of social events including u activities and community outreach projects. . if you prefer, to broaden your experience family days, theatre trips and days at the o c We also offer subsidised gym membership, . and develop new and different skills. It’s up races. We also have musical groups to s r to you where you take your career with us. eye-care vouchers and a range of wellbeing e e join, such as our choir and brass r treatments and advice. You might want to a band. Or, if you prefer socialising c - join our Sports and Leisure association too. q online, you can share your h Meanwhile, if you choose to join the “I work with a fantastic mix c thoughts on one of our .g “Flexible working at GCHQ is fantastic. Government and Communications Group w w within the Public and Commercial Services many internal blogs and of people – all from different w I work my 37 hour week over four days, community forums. which enables me to take a day each Union (PCS), you’ll be eligible for a range backgrounds and cultures – of PCS benefits and support, as well as Please note that, due to week to look after my 3-year-old son. discounts for a variety of goods and the nature of our work, you which makes for a really This means we can save the money we local services. must be a British citizen to would have spent on nursery fees, and Not only that, but from departmental and be eligible for employment. interesting and enjoyable more importantly I get a full day of Civil Service awards for outstanding service You can read our full working experience.” to national honours from MBEs to KCMG, nationality and security one-on-one time with my son – a rare our employees can enjoy real recognition criteria online. luxury for working fathers.” for their work. 18 The application and vetting process

Whichever role you want to consider, you with you, and people close to you, in order should apply to a suitable recruitment to assess your suitability for working within campaign via our careers website – where the intelligence services. You must be aged you’ll also find more information, together 18 or over, at the time of entry to GCHQ, to with case studies, about the range of obtain Developed Vetting Security Clearance. opportunities open to you. Our website will also indicate if an opportunity is at our How long does the vetting Cheltenham HQ or one of our smaller process last? stations (Bude or Scarborough). Everyone’s application and developed We recruit throughout the year to various vetting is unique, so unfortunately it isn’t roles, so if there isn’t currently a recruitment possible for us to say exactly how long it campaign relevant to your skills then please takes to complete the process. However, register your interest on our website to most people are granted security receive an email alert or RSS feed on the clearances within 6 - 9 months of applying latest opportunities. (although in some instances it can take Whether you’re a student, a graduate, or an longer). If you make a successful application experienced professional, the application while you’re studying, we will conduct the process typically involves three phases: vetting process whilst you complete your 1. Initial Sifting – where we match your studies or degree. qualifications and competencies against Applying to GCHQ can be a long process the minimum criteria required for the role but it’s fair and thorough, and once (also taking into consideration our you’ve joined us you’ll understand why nationality, security and residency it’s a necessity. requirements). Also, please remember what GCHQ is – 2. Assessment – where those who appear an intelligence agency – so if you wish to best suited to the role in question are apply for a position here, you must limit invited to the selection phase. This may those you tell about your application to your involve tests, interviews or a full day immediate family (parents and/or siblings) assessment centre (depending on and your partner. the role). For more information about our 3. Developed Vetting – everyone offered a current opportunities, please visit our position at GCHQ is required to undergo recruitment website. ‘Developed Vetting Security Clearance’ www.gchq-careers.co.uk “It’s well worth it – prior to employment. This will include an extended security vetting interview good colleagues, good benefits… not to mention the opportunity to do something of real value.”

All the information within this brochure was correct at the time of printing. explore another world

www.gchq-careers.co.uk [email protected]