Overview

GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency with a mission to keep the UK safe. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is the UK Government’s lead authority on cyber security. The role is based in Manchester with hybrid working and occasional travel to London, Cheltenham and customer sites.

Job Description

As a Cyber Security Consultant, you will deliver expert cyber consultancy to critical systems and major government and public-sector projects. You will lead and support large-scale interventions to enhance cyber resilience at a national level, ensuring the UK’s vital services are protected against evolving threats. You will establish strong partnerships with departments and agencies and collaborate with NCSC teams, including technical specialists and incident response, to drive a joined-up approach.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice to senior stakeholders on managing cyber risks and embedding robust security measures from the start of major projects.
• Coordinate and lead cross-government efforts to tackle large-scale cyber challenges, working across government and sector boundaries.
• Offer a blend of technical expertise, incident response support, and strategic guidance using 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 delivery, ensuring interventions are data-driven, relevant and impactful.

Person Specification and Requirements

• Proven experience in cybersecurity, consultancy, or policy, or the ability to demonstrate developing these skills and motivation to work as a Cyber Consultant in the Government Team.
• Experience preparing and coordinating briefings for ministers and senior officials with clear communication at the highest levels.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders and build productive relationships.
• Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations and deliver results, with experience across diverse sectors and organisations.
• Strong risk management and project oversight skills to meet objectives and address challenges proactively.

GCHQ Competencies

The NCSC assesses against competencies used by the UK Intelligence Community, based on Civil Service Behaviours. The Level 3 competencies include: - Driving Innovation and Change - Communicating and Influencing - Working Collaboratively - Making Effective Decisions - Delivering Outcomes

Benefits and Rewards

• Starting salary of £44,044.
• 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years, plus 10.5 days public and privilege holidays.
• Flexible working options and opportunities for recognition through an employee performance scheme.
• Interest-free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme.
• On-site facilities such as gym, restaurant and coffee bars (at some locations).
• Paid parental and adoption leave and an excellent Civil Service pension.

Equal Opportunities

GCHQ welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds and takes an inclusive approach to recruitment and development, including groups under-represented in the workforce.

Disability Confident

GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader, offering support and adjustments in the recruitment process to enable disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria to be considered. The minimum criteria include experience working with external stakeholders, strong written and verbal communication, and the ability to explain technical issues and collaborate with varied teams.

What to Expect

Recruitment process is fair and merit-based. Stages: online application, sift, interview, conditional offer. You must pass each stage to progress. The process, including vetting, may take 6–9 months; consider maintaining current employment until a final offer is made.

Before You Apply

You must be a British citizen or hold dual British nationality. The role requires Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. The role is based in Manchester; relocation costs are not provided. Applications should be submitted from within the UK. Some information about eligibility and restrictions is available on the website.

Closing date: 17/09/25 at 23:55.