MI5’s covert operations utilise technology in a way you’d never thought possible.

As a Covert Technical Operations Specialist you will take the lead in deploying a wide range of advanced MI5 technical capability to enable intelligence collection in fast-paced and high profile investigations.  Working alongside investigators, you will give a unique insight into the complex and evolving threats to national security by developing methods to allow us access to the computers and technology used by terrorist groups that pose a serious threat to the UK.

Computer and mobile device security is advancing at a rapid pace and it’s vital for MI5 to stay ahead of the game. This is why we need individuals with the brightest technical minds and the drive to meet the challenges of MI5’s covert operations.

You will find yourself working to tight deadlines and rapidly solving technical problems in the most innovative, tactical and covert ways possible. As you’ll be working closely with other operational and investigative teams, you will need to be comfortable explaining complex technical topics to a wider audience, to ensure the success of the operations.

For success in this role you’ll have knowledge and experience in computer / network security, computer / digital forensics and / or penetration testing.  It would be highly advantageous for applicants to have excellent computer science, scripting and development skills (including on mobile platforms). An in-depth understanding of internet / network protocols and mobile / desktop operating system internals would also be very desirable.

Due to the nature of the role you will need to be able to adapt to evolving requirements, meet the challenges of high operational tempos and have the drive to see complex requirements through to completion. You will also be comfortable working within established compliance and legislative frameworks that govern our work. In return, you’ll have a rewarding career at MI5, working at the forefront of the computer security whilst continually developing your technical skills through our blended approach to learning.

To apply you will need to meet one of the following criteria:

-    have or be expecting to achieve at least a 2:2 degree or equivalent qualification by Autumn 2016 in a technology related field such as computer science, computer security, software engineering, mathematics or another similar subject.

OR

-    have a strong background / experience in computer / network security, computer / digital forensics or penetration testing.

Guaranteed Interview Scheme

As part of our commitment to the “Positive About Disabled People” scheme we offer an interview to all candidates with a disability who meet our minimum criteria for the job vacancy for which they are applying.  This is known as the Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS).

Along with the standard eligibility requirements for this post, your application will be assessed on how far you meet the job specification based on your application and the answers you provide in the “Skills and Additional Information” section.  Your application must score the minimum amount of points set, if you are successful at this stage, you will be invited to interview.

The Recruitment Process

The first thing we will ask you to do is to complete our pre-screening questions to find out if you meet our initial criteria. If you do meet these criteria we will then ask you to begin an application. The first step will require you to create a login. You can do this by providing your full name, email address and a memorable password. Once you have successfully created a personal account, you will be required to upload your CV and complete an application form which will include some additional information on your skills and experience. You will also be required to complete an equal opportunities monitoring information form.

Our recruitment team will complete an application sift to assess how far you meet the job specification. Although there are different technical areas you will be assessed on, you do not have to excel in all the areas in order to pass. We are assessing your potential as well as your ability. Successful applicants will be invited to an assessment centre that will involve a face to face competency and technical interview to check you have the skills and motivation to work for the Security Service. You will also participate in a technical challenge, which has been designed to assess your skills and will form the basis of your technical interview. If you pass the assessment centre you will then be asked to attend a final selection interview, and assuming you pass this, you will then be asked to attend a security interview with a vetting officer.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible to apply, you must meet our residency criteria. You must be a born or naturalised British citizen and one of your parents must be a British citizen or have substantial ties to the UK.

Candidates must normally have been resident in the UK for nine out of the last 10 years prior to application. This is particularly important if you were born outside the UK. You will nonetheless be considered if you have, for example, served overseas with HM Forces or in some other official capacity as a representative of Her Majesty's Government, studied abroad, or lived overseas with your parents.

Due to vetting requirements you will need to be 18 years old, or above, to apply. Your application may take around six months to process.

Confidentiality

Discretion is vital. You should not discuss your application, other than with your partner or a close family member.