At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team ensuring secure access across the UK's security services.
- Company: GCHQ, a leading intelligence and security agency in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, competitive pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for continuous learning and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your technical skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in identity and access management with a solid infrastructure background.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Infrastructure Engineer (Identity Access Management) role at Careers at MI5, MI6 and GCHQ.
About us
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. Working with 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 emphasises teamwork.
Salary £44,404, including a concessionary payment of £2,658. You may also qualify for a skills payment ranging from £4,513 to £9,812 and a recruitment bonus of £3,500, both dependent on technical ability and successful assessment during the interview process.
The role
As an Infrastructure Engineer within Identity and Access Management, you’ll join a technically specialised capability that underpins secure access across the UK’s security services. Working across a wide range of systems and environments, the position ensures identity and access services remain stable, secure and compliant. This work supports both national and international partners, safeguarding the integrity of mission‑critical systems.
In this technical role, you will be part of one or more product teams delivering and running identity services, supporting large and complex strategic programmes across the intelligence community. Responsibilities include:
- Acting as a product Subject Matter Expert (SME) working with stakeholders with a focus on maintaining existing capabilities and developing new ones for future initiatives.
- Day‑to‑day work covers identity operations, incident resolution and dealing with service requests across multiple platforms and technologies.
- Active participation in product development and roadmap planning ensures alignment with key initiatives and platform improvements.
- Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to strengthen access management and maintain compliance and reliability.
- Knowledge sharing, including mentoring and training to promote secure access practices and technical excellence.
Occasional travel to Cheltenham and London will be required, with some limited opportunities for international travel.
About you
You’ll bring technical knowledge and practical experience in identity and access management, supported by a solid infrastructure background in either Windows or Linux environments. The role requires confidence in working with core identity technologies and security components such as directory services, public key infrastructure, identity providers, authentication mechanisms and privileged access solutions, ensuring robust and secure access across complex environments.
Comfort with solving complex problems and communicating technical concepts to a wide range of stakeholders, including senior leaders and non‑specialist users, is essential. Experience working across geographically dispersed teams is also important, as the role demands balancing operational support with strategic delivery. Initiative, knowledge sharing and a positive contribution to team culture are key in a high‑trust, mission‑critical environment.
Learning and development
From day one, you’ll be supported by a structured induction and a tailored development plan designed to help you grow into the role. Bringing your experience in identity and access management, you’ll enhance your skills through advanced training, formal learning and opportunities to share knowledge with peers.
- Technical delivery – gaining practical experience and guidance from experienced mentors
- Professional development – pursuing certifications from Microsoft, Linux, CyberArk and more
- Collaboration – engaging with colleagues across teams and participating in cross‑organisational initiatives
- Continuous learning – accessing workshops, reading groups, internal conferences and recognition schemes
As your expertise grows, there are opportunities to take on more responsibility, whether through technical leadership, mentoring or wider engagement across the organisation. Our culture champions autonomy, collaboration and continuous learning.
Benefits
You will enjoy 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years' service, alongside 8 bank holidays and 2.5 additional leave days (set dates throughout the year). We also offer a competitive pension, with employer contributions of at least 28.97%, an interest‑free season ticket loan and more.
Infrastructure Engineer (Identity Access Management) in Manchester employer: Careers at MI5, MI6 and GCHQ
At MI5, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of national security while fostering a collaborative and innovative tech environment. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our flexible working options and competitive salary, ensuring that you can thrive both personally and professionally as you contribute to meaningful projects that have a real impact on the nation.
Contact Details:
Careers at MI5, MI6 and GCHQ Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Infrastructure Engineer (Identity Access Management) in Manchester
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We think you need these skills to ace Infrastructure Engineer (Identity Access Management) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at Careers at MI5, MI6 and GCHQ insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to Careers at MI5, MI6 and GCHQ that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Careers at MI5, MI6 and GCHQ
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
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✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at Careers at MI5, MI6 and GCHQ.
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
