Overview
Job description
GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency with a mission to keep the UK safe. We use cutting-edge technology, ingenuity and partnerships to identify, analyse and disrupt threats. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, is the UK Government’s lead authority on cyber security and aims to make the UK the safest place to live and work online. The organisation protects the UK from terrorism, cyber-attacks and espionage and works with MI5 and MI6 in a collaborative, inclusive environment that emphasises teamwork.
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.
Responsibilities
* Provide expert advice to senior stakeholders to manage cyber risks effectively and embed robust security measures from the start of major projects.
* Coordinate and lead efforts across government and sector boundaries, bringing together internal and external stakeholders to tackle large-scale cyber challenges.
* Offer a blend of technical expertise, incident response support, and strategic guidance drawing on the full range of NCSC services.
* Represent the NCSC at forums and events, influencing national cyber policy and championing best practice across sectors.
* Use customer insights to refine and enhance delivery, ensuring interventions are data-driven, relevant and impactful.
Person Specification
We’re seeking a passionate and skilled professional. Previous experience in cybersecurity, consultancy, or policy is required, or you must demonstrate how you’ll develop these skills and explain why you want to work 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, and building productive stakeholder relationships.
* Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations and deliver results, with a track record of collaboration across diverse sectors.
* Strong skills in risk management and project oversight, ensuring objectives are met and challenges are addressed proactively.
GCHQ Competencies
The NCSC will assess you against competencies used by the UK Intelligence Community, aligned with Civil Service Behaviours. The Level 3 competencies assessed include:
* Driving Innovation and Change (Civil Service Behaviour Equivalent: Changing and Improving)
* Communicating and Influencing (Civil Service Behaviour Equivalent: Communicating and Influencing)
* Working Collaboratively (Civil Service Behaviour Equivalent: Working Together)
* Making Effective Decisions (Civil Service Behaviour Equivalent: Making Effective Decisions)
* Delivering Outcomes (Civil Service Behaviour Equivalent: Delivering at Pace)
Benefits and Rewards
We offer an inclusive and supportive working environment with comprehensive training and development opportunities. The starting salary is £44,044. Other benefits include:
* 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years, plus 10.5 days of public and privilege holidays
* Flexible working options
* Employee performance recognition
* Interest-free season ticket loan
* Cycle to work scheme
* On-site facilities such as gym, restaurant and coffee bars (at some locations)
* Paid parental and adoption leave
* Excellent Civil Service pension
Equal Opportunities
GCHQ values diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from everyone, including groups under-represented in the workforce. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and with varying experiences.
Disability Confident
GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader. We aim to ensure a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria are offered an interview, where practical. The minimum criteria include experience with external stakeholders, effective written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to explain technical issues and collaborate with varied teams.
What to Expect
Our recruitment process is fair, merit-based and transparent. Stages include online application, sift, interview, and conditional offer of employment. You must pass each stage to progress. The process may take around 6–9 months including vetting.
Before You Apply
To work at the NCSC, you must be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. The role requires Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. You should consider relocation implications and the UK-based requirement for application. The role is based in Manchester; you should live within a commutable distance as relocation costs are not offered. Applications from outside the UK should wait to visit the UK before applying.
Other notes: we advise using a separate email for communications and avoiding identifiable details in your email address for security reasons.
Closing Date
The closing date for this role is 17/09/25 at 23:55.
Right to Withdraw Statement
We reserve the right to bring forward the closing date if a sufficient number of applications are received. Please submit your application early to avoid disappointment.
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