GCHQ is offering you an exciting opportunity to join our organisation on our Data Collection Development Programme. Our 18-month programme takes entrants through a training programme (classroom based and on-the-job), to learn how to operate the systems we use to acquire data. This data underpins our intelligence missions across our organisation so is crucial to our work.
You don’t need to have a technical background as we’ll teach you everything you need to know. However, you’ll need maths and English Language at GCSE grade C/level 4 or above, or an equivalent qualification. We’re looking for individuals with a genuine curiosity and interest in technology, and the willingness to take that interest further.
All successful candidates will undergo a set training programme and will be based at their preferred choice of location (Bude, Cheltenham, North Yorkshire and Scarborough). As part of the programme, travel to Cheltenham and other locations will be required for some of the training course. Any travel and subsistence costs will be paid by GCHQ.
The application window for the Data Collection Development Programme will open on Monday 2 February 2026. In the meantime, we encourage:
To register their interest in this forthcoming opportunity*
As part of the registration of interest, you will be invited to several online events prior to the campaign opening. There will be Insight Events where you can find out more about the role and an upskilling event. These events will run on:
Insight Events – Wednesday 28 January 2026 (1.00 – 2.00pm and 6.00 – 7.00pm).
Upskilling Event – Thursday 29 January 2026 (2.00 – 3.00pm)
The events will last for approximately 1 hour.
Please note that a registration of interest does not constitute a job application, nor will such registration have any bearing upon the recruitment process itself. Any individuals who register their interest and who decide subsequently to apply for the Data Collection Development Programme will need to complete an application form once the window for applications has opened.
*We are confining registrations of interest to these groups only, due to their current under-representation in our workforce. Once the application window has opened, we welcome applications from all candidates, regardless of their ethnic background, gender, disability and/or any other characteristic(s). Please check our nationality eligibility criteria requirements.
All applications will be assessed solely on merit.
Register your interest here.
This Program / Vacancy is closed to applications.