Cyber Security Architect Ref. 1951

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Cyber
Cheltenham
Permanent
Full Time
£48,000 - £80,000 (on a pro rata basis), which includes a concessionary payment plus a potential skills payment dependent on experience.
No

GCHQ is offering you an exciting opportunity to join our team of experienced technical Security Architects.

We want an enthusiastic and highly organized individual, working closely within a team of experienced technical Security Architects to consult on the secure design, build and operation of some of the most important computer systems in the UK. This exceptionally demanding role requires a breadth of specialist skills in technology and cyber security combined.  A consummate communicator, you’ll engage with stakeholders at all levels across the business and wider UK Government departments. 

GCHQ faces a variety of technical challenges every day involving both current and future technologies. With the help of our research teams we provide vital up-to-date guidance on the application of both current and cutting-edge technologies. GCHQ are required to stay ahead of the ever-changing technical landscape, so you’ll have many opportunities to take the initiative and work with various customers as a Security Architect.

THE ROLE

We’re looking for people who are experienced in the design and build of a range of systems and services using modern technologies and cloud services, you’ll be able to identify vulnerabilities in system designs. Working closely with technical architects, system owners and seniors to explain these issues and identify alternative approaches. Our team of security architects will typically work across a wide range of projects so you’ll never get bored!
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’re looking for Architects who:

  • Are comfortable and have had proven experience in taking responsibility for technology and design choices across a range of systems and services (e.g. Digital services, enterprise systems and mission IT systems)
  • You understand the vulnerabilities in technologies and how they occur, how they are found, exploited by an attacker, and how they are mitigated.
  • Are keen to keep up with new and emerging technologies, particularly security technologies, with a deep understanding of your technical specialism and awareness of innovative developments in your field.

You should hold an awareness of Cyber Security across Government and Industry, with an appreciation of customer’s needs and the delivery of bespoke services. You should have excellent consultancy and communication skills while working collaboratively and effectively within a team environment.

You will be able to provide evidence of advising senior decision makers on cyber security issues when making strategic technology choices, balancing user needs against security and other constraints.

You are keen to develop personally and contribute to the continuing development of the profession.

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 are committed to helping you fulfil your potential.

We are committed to helping you maintain your excellent technical knowledge through comprehensive training and development opportunities, tailored to your personal needs and the requirements of your work. We will support 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.

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.

SALARY

Total reward package in the region of £48,000 - £80,000 (on a pro rata basis), which includes a concessionary payment plus a potential skills payment dependent on experience’


LOCATION

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

SELECTION PROCESS

If you’re excited about working with us and think you have some of what we’re looking for but aren’t sure if you’re 100% there yet… why not just give it a go!

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

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. Edit if you are recruiting at SC.

This Program / Vacancy is closed to applications.