At a Glance
- Tasks: Research and design secure AI architectures while tackling complex security challenges.
- Company: Join the National Cyber Security Centre, a leader in cyber defence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, and perks like gym access and season ticket loans.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and offers excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while advancing your expertise in AI.
- Qualifications: Experience in system design and a solid understanding of tech vulnerabilities.
The predicted salary is between 55758 - 55758 £ per year.
Your role will focus on researching how to design secure architectures and systems around Artificial Intelligence, rather than building or securing models directly. You will collaborate with experts across government, industry and academia to tackle complex security challenges, supporting critical national outcomes.
Responsibilities
- Research secure design of AI architectures and systems.
- Collaborate with teams researching GenAI security and socio‑technical considerations.
- Assess integration of AI technologies into existing and emerging architectural models, including cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, GCP), identity and access management, AI agents and hybrid cloud environments.
- Contribute to the development and evaluation of secure frameworks, tools and architecture, and support the creation of NCSC guidance on the safe adoption of GenAI.
- Support the development of NCSC guidance on the safe adoption of GenAI and related secure practices.
- Opportunity to advance security architect expertise while contributing to broader AI and architectural initiatives.
Qualifications
- Experience designing and building a range of systems and services, or providing expert technical advice with specialist security capabilities applied to real‑world challenges.
- Solid understanding of how technological vulnerabilities arise, how they are discovered, and how they may be exploited.
- Experience supporting or developing systems using modern technologies, including cloud services and AI.
- Broad background across a variety of technologies, complemented by deeper expertise in a personal area of interest.
- Demonstrated competencies in: driving innovation and change; communicating and influencing; working collaboratively.
Rewards and benefits
- Starting salary: £55,758, including a concessionary payment of £2,758.
- Skills payment: £15,757 at Level 2, increasing to £33,448 at Level 3.
- 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service, plus an additional 10.5 days of public and privileged holidays.
- Opportunities for recognition through an employee performance scheme.
- Interest‑free season ticket loan.
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Facilities such as a gym, restaurant and on‑site coffee bars (availability varies by location).
Equal opportunities statement
GCHQ welcomes and encourages applications from everyone, including those from under‑represented groups: women, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. GCHQ is a leader in the Department for Work and Pensions’ Disability Confident scheme, ensuring that qualified disabled applicants will be offered an interview when practicable. Recruitment is based on merit, a transparent process and fully inclusive practices that support diverse perspectives across all levels of the organisation.
NCSC AI Security Architect in Manchester employer: GCHQ Careers
GCHQ offers a unique opportunity for language enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, the 11-week Language Talent Programme not only provides hands-on experience in translation and interpretation but also fosters growth through dedicated training and mentorship. Located in a vibrant setting, GCHQ promotes a culture of inclusivity and support, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in language services.
