CAP Software Engineers Ref. 1517

GCHQ, the longest standing code-breaking intelligence agency in the UK, is offering you an exciting opportunity to join our organisation as a Software Engineer.

THE ROLE

As a senior software engineer, you will ensure the securing and exploiting defence software team deliver fit for purpose technical solutions to GCHQ and wider UK Government in support of cryptographic key generation. The role is for a technical lead with the primary responsibility of implementing cryptographic key specifications on a new key generation system under development that brings with it lots of process and technology change. The work will involve designing, planning and implementing both software and processes to support the rigorous delivery lifecycle. It also includes the management of software engineers, as well as working with customers and industry partners to deliver security critical evaluated software.

While the role is challenging, our flexible working policy ensures a healthy work-life balance. Wherever possible, we accommodate reduced hours or job share options, balanced against business needs.

While the role is challenging, our flexible working policy ensures a healthy work-life balance. Wherever possible, we accommodate reduced hours or job share options, balanced against business needs.

REQUIREMENTS

We are looking for talented, flexible and committed individuals from a software engineering background as a technical lead for the team to design and implement code as well as manage, develop and mentor other software engineers. Training will be given in the field of cryptographic key specifications as needed, though experience in Java with some C knowledge is essential.

Knowledge of cryptographic algorithms, ASN.1, Spring, Docker, Linux, testing and software tools such as Eclipse, Bitbucket, Jira, Confluence, Jenkins, Maven etc. is also very desirable.

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. With comprehensive training and development opportunities, tailored to your 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.

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.

SALARY

Salary of £31,883 with the potential to earn skills bonuses and additional payments dependant on experience

LOCATION

Cheltenham (located within an hour’s journey of Birmingham and Bristol)

SELECTION PROCESS

To apply for this position, you must meet our nationality, residency and security requirements. You’ll find more details here: https://www.gchq-careers.co.uk/recruitment-process.html

As users of the disability confident scheme, we also guarantee to interview all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria for our roles.

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:

- Personal interview*

- Drug test

*Interviews will be held in Cheltenham

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.