Maths and Cryptography Specialists Ref. 1917

Mind Achieving Impact AwardSocial Mobility Foundation AwardThe Times Top 100Disability confident leaderThe Prince's Responsible Business

Maths & Cryptography
Cheltenham
£28,804 - £35,641 pro rata (including concessionary pay) along with the potential to earn skills bonuses and additional payments, dependent on skills and experience.

Think Maths. Think Computer Science. Think GCHQ.

GCHQ is offering you an exciting opportunity to be a maths and cryptography specialist, tackling unique, complex and ever-changing problems, and applying mathematical thinking to protect the UK.

ABOUT US

As one of Britain’s intelligence agencies, we unlock the complex world of communications to keep our nation safe. We work closely with MI5 and MI6, our partners in the intelligence community, to safeguard Britain’s people, interests and businesses from various threats. Think cyber-attacks, espionage, terrorism, and organised crime. It’s challenging, varied and meaningful work that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

THE ROLE

Our mathematicians work collaboratively in multiskilled teams to solve varied and interesting problems, using analytical skills and a broad range of mathematical approaches, including, but not limited to, algebra, probability, number theory, statistics and optimisation. Supported by mentors you’ll soon become a maths and cryptography specialist, producing innovative technical capabilities, often using some of Europe’s most powerful computers to deliver world-class knowledge and expertise, and influence decisions made by government agencies. You’ll work in areas including cryptography and cryptanalysis network exploitation, cyber security, data science, machine learning, mathematical modelling and many more. 


Our roles are stimulating and provide an enjoyable challenge, while our flexible working policy ensures a healthy work-life balance. Wherever possible, we look to accommodate reduced hours or job share options, balanced against business needs.

REQUIREMENTS

To reflect the developing challenges we face, we’re actively looking for individuals with a background in maths, computer science or any other subject with substantial mathematical content.  You should have or expect to obtain shortly, at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent qualification) in a mathematical discipline, including (but not limited to) mathematics, computer science, statistics and physics.

You’ll love solving problems, while juggling competing demands and fluently adapting to new circumstances. You must have great intellectual curiosity and the ability to learn quickly.  An interest in technology and/or experience in programming is desirable but not essential.

All new starters will have access to substantial internal training, covering both mathematical and technological topics and will be assigned a mentor upon joining.

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

At GCHQ we’re proud of our inclusive and supportive working environment that’s designed to encourage open minds and attitudes. As an organisation that values and nurtures talent, we’re committed to helping you fulfil your potential. You’re not expected to come to us with a wealth of knowledge, or skills, on day one. With comprehensive training and development opportunities, tailored to your personal needs and the requirements of your work, we’ll enable you to flourish in your role and perform to the very best of your abilities.

SALARY

Salary of £28,804 pro rata (including concessionary pay)

LOCATION

Cheltenham

Equal Opportunities Statement

The UK Intelligence Agencies – MI5 / MI6 / GCHQ – Equal Opportunities employers, committed to reflecting the society we protect. Our recruitment process is fair, transparent and based on merit.  We particularly welcome applications from diverse and under-represented groups.

SELECTION PROCESS

To apply for this position, you must meet our nationality, residency and security requirements.  You’ll find more details here: .

Be prepared to dedicate 60-90 minutes to completing your application. We’re conscious this might be more time than you expected, so our system will allow you to save your application at any time and come back to it later. But remember to submit your full application before the closing date.

Once we’ve established that you meet our eligibility criteria, the next steps of this selection process are:

1) Assessment Centre, comprising:
• Maths aptitude test
• Programming aptitude exercises
• Technical group exercise
• Interview

2) Drug test

The assessment centres will be held in Cheltenham on Tue 14th, Wed 15th, Thurs 16th and Mon 20th Jan 2020, therefore, please keep these dates free.    

If you successfully complete these stages, you’ll receive a job offer, conditional upon you completing our developed vetting (DV) process which enables you to obtain the level of security clearance required to perform this vital role.

This Program / Vacancy is closed to applications.