OverviewGCHQ 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. Working with our intelligence partners MI5 and MI6, we protect the UK from terrorism, cyber-attacks and espionage. At GCHQ you’ll do varied and fascinating work in a supportive and inclusive environment that puts the emphasis on teamwork. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, is the UK Government’s lead authority on cyber security. The organisation is at the heart of the Government’s cyber security strategy and has the aim of making the UK the safest place to live and work online.

Job DescriptionAs a Cyber Security Consultant, you will play a pivotal role in delivering 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. Establishing strong partnerships with departments and agencies is key to driving meaningful outcomes. You’ll collaborate closely 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.

Help manage cyber risks and embed robust security measures from the start of major projects.

Coordinate and lead efforts across government and sector boundaries to tackle large-scale cyber challenges with internal and external stakeholders.

Offer a blend of technical expertise, incident response support, and strategic guidance to meet customer needs.

Represent the NCSC at forums and events, influencing national cyber policy and promoting best practice across sectors.

Use customer insights to drive continuous delivery improvements that are data-driven, relevant and impactful.

Person SpecificationWe’re seeking a passionate and skilled professional to join our team. 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 relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations and deliver results when it matters most, with experience working across diverse sectors and cultures.

Strong skills in risk management and project oversight to ensure objectives are met and challenges addressed proactively.

GCHQ CompetenciesThe NCSC will assess you against competencies used by the UK Intelligence Community. 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 RewardsAt NCSC and GCHQ, we are proud of our inclusive and supportive working environment that encourages open minds and attitudes. We are committed to helping you fulfil your potential with comprehensive training and development opportunities tailored to your needs and the requirements of your work.

You’ll receive a starting salary of £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 performance recognition opportunities

Interest-free season ticket loan

Cycle to work scheme

On-site facilities such as gym, restaurant and coffee bars where available

Paid parental and adoption leave

Excellent Civil Service pension

Equal OpportunitiesAt GCHQ, diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities and neurodivergent conditions. We encourage applicants from groups under-represented in our workforce to apply.

Disability ConfidentGCHQ is proud to have achieved Leader status within the Disability Confident scheme. This is aimed at encouraging employers to think differently about disability and to improve recruitment, retention and development of disabled people. This role includes standard Disability Confident initiatives and interviews where appropriate. See our website for reasonable adjustments information.

What to ExpectOur recruitment process is fair, transparent, and based on merit. Stages include online application, application sift, and interview, with a conditional offer if successful. You must pass each stage to progress. The process may take 6–9 months including vetting; you may wish to continue in current employment until you have a final offer.

Before You ApplyTo work at the NCSC, you need to be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. The role requires the highest security clearance (Developed Vetting). Read about eligibility and the vetting process. There is a strict drugs policy; recreational drugs are not allowed once you start the application, and previous drug usage must be declared at the relevant stage.

Consider setting up a separate email address for correspondence to keep personal and application communications separate. The role is based in Manchester and requires living within a commutable distance; relocation costs are not offered.

You should launch your application from within the UK. If based overseas, wait to visit the UK before applying. Do not discuss your application beyond close family or a partner.

The closing date for this role is 17/09/25 at 23:55.

Right to Withdraw StatementWe reserve the right to bring forward the closing date if a sufficient number of applications are received. Please apply early to avoid disappointment.

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