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 organisation aims to make the UK the safest place to live and work online.
At GCHQ you’ll do varied and fascinating work in a supportive and inclusive environment that prioritises teamwork. Hybrid working is well embedded, and you may travel to London, Cheltenham, and customer sites as needed.
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 and collaborate 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
* Protect critical systems and shape the UK’s cyber resilience by providing expert advice to senior stakeholders and embedding robust security measures from the outset of major projects.
* Coordinate and lead efforts that bring together internal and external stakeholders to tackle large-scale cyber challenges across government and sector boundaries.
* Offer a blend of technical expertise, incident response support, and strategic guidance drawn from 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.
People
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. You’ll join a politically astute, high-performing group of cyber security consultants from varied backgrounds, where your ideas will be welcomed and your impact recognised.
Location and Travel
Hybrid working is embedded. Travel to London, Cheltenham and customer sites may be required.
Person Specification
We’re seeking a passionate and skilled professional. Experience in cybersecurity, consultancy, or policy is required, or you must be able to 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.
* Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a wide variety of stakeholders, building productive relationships.
* Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations and deliver results when it matters most, with experience working across diverse sectors.
* Strong skills in risk management and project oversight, ensuring objectives are met and challenges are proactively addressed.
GCHQ Competencies
The NCSC will assess you against competencies used by the UK Intelligence Community, based on Civil Service Behaviours. The Level 3 competencies 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
As part of NCSC and GCHQ, you’ll work in an inclusive and supportive 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 public and privilege holidays
* Flexible working options
* Performance recognition through our employee scheme
* Interest-free season ticket loan
* Cycle to work scheme
* On-site facilities such as gym, restaurant and coffee bars (locations vary)
* Paid parental and adoption leave
* Excellent Civil Service pension
Equal Opportunities
GCHQ is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Disability Confident
GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader. The minimum criteria for an interview include:
* Experience of working with external stakeholders
* Effective written and verbal communication skills
* Ability to explain technical issues and collaborate with varied teams
There is support available during the recruitment process, including reasonable adjustments. See our website for details.
What to Expect
Our recruitment process is fair and merit-based. Stages include online application, sift, interview, and conditional offer if successful. You must pass each stage to progress; the process may take 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 eligibility criteria, and note the drugs policy and practical considerations such as working from Manchester.
The role is based in Manchester, with no relocation assistance provided. Applications should be submitted from within the UK.
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 promptly to avoid disappointment.
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