A typical day as an Associate Software Engineer involves working within an Agile team to tackle real-world problems using a variety of software engineering methods, languages, and frameworks such as JavaScript, Java, C++, Node.js, Python, Rust, Go, and .NET.
Initially, you'll join us as an Associate Software Engineer, with a primary focus on enhancing and expanding your existing technical skills. Our approach on the Foundation Academy Programme combines both classroom-based learning and practical experience, complemented by a variety of project and placement opportunities across the business.
You'll contribute to large-scale projects and work in diverse environments, including on-premise solutions and Cloud. You'll always be learning from-and contributing to-the wider engineering community. This role gives you the autonomy to achieve the desired outcomes while continuing to grow your skills along the way.
Responsibilities and Requirements
To join us, you must have a background in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) subject at higher education level, such as a diploma, foundation degree, apprenticeship, or ongoing studies. A completed qualification is not essential, what matters most is a genuine interest in technology and a commitment to learning.
You'll also need to have completed a full-stack software engineering bootcamp (typically lasting six months or more), or have equivalent practical experience. This experience could come from a practical software development project, a software engineer-related role, or relevant employment, such as an industry or summer placement.
The ideal candidate will be passionate about technology and thrive in collaborative environments where sharing insights and continuous learning are valued. You should be eager to engage in a structured training programme spanning 6 to 12 months, which includes formal instruction, self-directed learning, and cohort-based development.
Training and Development
At GCHQ, we take pride in providing an inclusive and supportive working environment. As an Associate Software Engineer, you'll receive dedicated support and training. We value and nurture talent, and we're committed to helping you reach your full potential.
Training and career development are encouraged, with a minimum of 30% of your work time dedicated to professional growth. We actively support each individual's pursuit of educational goals-whether that involves obtaining qualifications (such as cloud or framework-specific methodologies), advancing academic credentials like MSc or PhD degrees, or working towards recognised professional statuses such as Chartered Engineer (CEng or Engineering Technician (EngTech).
Rewards and Benefits
We provide a base salary of £33,750, plus an additional Concessionary Payment of £2,658. Other benefits include 25 days of annual leave, opportunities to be recognised through our employee performance scheme, interest-free season ticket loan, an excellent pension scheme, a cycle to work scheme, on-site facilities such as a gym, restaurant and on-site coffee bars (available at some locations), and paid parental and adoption leave.
Equal Opportunities
At GCHQ, diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. To protect the UK, we need a truly diverse workforce that reflects the society we serve. This includes diversity in every sense of the word-individuals with different backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ways of thinking, and those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions.
We're disability confident and proud to have achieved Leader status within the DWP's Disability Confident scheme. This initiative encourages employers to think differently about disability and take action to improve how they recruit, retain, and develop disabled people.
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