Overview
About Us
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 and aims to make the UK the safest place to live and work online. The organisation works with MI5 and MI6 to protect the UK from terrorism, cyber-attacks and espionage, delivering varied and inclusive work in a collaborative environment.
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 the UK’s most vital services are protected against evolving threats. Establishing strong partnerships with departments and agencies is key to driving meaningful outcomes, and you will collaborate 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, helping them manage cyber risks effectively and embed robust security measures from the very beginning of major projects.
* Coordinate and lead efforts across government and sector boundaries to tackle large-scale cyber challenges, engaging internal and external stakeholders.
* Draw on the full range of NCSC services to offer technical expertise, incident response support, and strategic guidance to meet customer needs.
* Represent the NCSC at forums and events, influencing national cyber policy and championing best practice across sectors.
* Focus on continuous improvement by using customer insights to refine and enhance delivery, ensuring interventions are data-driven and impactful.
Person Specification & Requirements
* Proven experience in cybersecurity, consultancy, or policy, or demonstrated ability to develop these skills and explain why you want to work as a Cyber Consultant in the Government Team.
* Experience in preparing and coordinating briefings for ministers and senior officials, communicating complex information clearly at high levels.
* Strong communication skills with the ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders and build productive relationships.
* Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations, delivering results when it matters most, and the ability to navigate diverse organisational cultures and priorities.
* Strong skills in risk management and project oversight, ensuring objectives are met and challenges are identified proactively.
GCHQ Competencies
The NCSC assesses against Civil Service Behaviours. The Level 3 competencies include: Driving Innovation and Change; Communicating and Influencing; Working Collaboratively; Making Effective Decisions; Delivering at Pace. Further information on Civil Service Behaviours is available on the Civil Service site.
Benefits and Rewards
We offer an inclusive and supportive environment with comprehensive training and development opportunities. The starting salary for this role 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
* Employee recognition through the performance scheme
* 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 & Disability Confident
GCHQ values diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. We encourage applications from groups under-represented in the workforce and support fair recruitment practices. We are a Disability Confident Leader, providing reasonable adjustments and ensuring fair opportunity for interview where practicable.
What to Expect
Our recruitment process is fair, transparent and merit-based. Stages include online application, application sift, interview, and conditional offer if successful. You may need 6–9 months to complete the process due to vetting; consider this when planning a transition from current employment.
Before You Apply
* To work at the NCSC, you must be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. Read eligibility criteria on our site.
* This role requires Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. Learn more about the vetting process.
* We have a strict drugs policy; you must declare any previous drug usage at the relevant stage.
* Consider creating a separate email address for correspondence to protect privacy.
* The role is based in Manchester; you must be within commuting distance. Relocation costs are not offered.
* Please launch your application from within the UK; applicants overseas may experience delays. Do not discuss your application beyond close contacts.
* Closing date: 17/09/25 at 23:55.
Please note the Right to Withdraw Statement applies: the closing date may be brought forward as applications are received.
#J-18808-Ljbffr