Overview
GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency with a mission to keep the UK safe. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, is the UK Government’s lead authority on cyber security.
The role is based in Manchester. Hybrid working is supported; some travel to London, Cheltenham and customer sites may be required.
Job Description
As a Cyber Security Consultant, you will deliver expert cyber consultancy to critical systems and major projects across government and the wider public sector. You will lead and support large-scale interventions that enhance cyber resilience at a national level, ensuring that the UK’s most vital services are protected against evolving threats. You will establish strong partnerships with departments and agencies, collaborating with teams across the NCSC, including technical specialists and incident response teams, to ensure a joined‑up and effective approach.
What will the successful candidate be doing
You will be at the forefront of protecting critical systems and shaping the UK’s cyber resilience. You will provide expert advice to senior stakeholders, helping them to manage cyber risks effectively and embed robust security measures from the very beginning of major projects. You will coordinate and lead efforts across government and sector boundaries to tackle large-scale cyber challenges, drawing on the full range of NCSC services to offer a blend of technical expertise, incident response support and strategic guidance. You will represent the NCSC at forums and events, influence national cyber policy and champion best practice across sectors. You will use customer insights to refine delivery and ensure interventions are data-driven, relevant and impactful.
You will join a diverse, high‑performing team of cyber security consultants and contribute to a collaborative environment.
* Hybrid working is embedded; travel to London, Cheltenham and customer sites as needed.
Person Specification
We’re seeking a passionate and skilled professional with experience in cybersecurity, consultancy or policy, or the ability to develop these skills and explain motivation for working as a Cyber Consultant in the Government Team.
The successful applicant will need to have:
* Proven experience in preparing and coordinating briefings for ministers and senior officials, communicating complex information clearly at the highest levels.
* Strong communication skills and ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders; collaborative relationship building.
* Ability to perform in high‑pressure situations and deliver results.
* Experience working with organisations across diverse sectors and navigating different cultures and priorities.
* Strong risk management and project oversight skills, proactively identifying and addressing challenges.
GCHQ Competencies
The NCSC will assess against Civil Service Behaviours. Level 3 competencies include Driving Innovation and Change, Communicating and Influencing, Working Collaboratively, Making Effective Decisions and Delivering Outcomes.
Benefits and Rewards
Starting salary: £44,044. Benefits include:
* 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years, plus 10.5 days public and privilege holidays
* Flexible working options
* Performance recognition scheme
* Interest‑free season ticket loan
* Cycle to work scheme
* On-site facilities (where available)
* Paid parental and adoption leave
* Excellent Civil Service pension
Equal Opportunities
GCHQ values diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We encourage applicants from groups under-represented in our workforce.
Disability Confident
GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader. We aim to interview a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. We offer adjustments in the recruitment process; see our website for details.
What to Expect / Before You Apply
Recruitment is fair, transparent and merit-based. Stages: online application, sift, interview, and conditional offer if successful. The process may take 6–9 months including vetting. You may continue in current employment until a final offer is made.
Eligibility: UK nationality required, security clearance (Developed Vetting) is needed. A strict drugs policy applies. Consider using a separate email address for correspondence. The role is based in Manchester with no relocation assistance. Please apply from within the UK.
Closing date: 17/09/25 at 23:55.
#J-18808-Ljbffr