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- Tasks: Join MI5 as a Test Engineer to ensure high-quality products that protect the UK.
- Company: Be part of MI5, the UK's security service, making a real difference.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, career development, and opportunities for travel.
- Why this job: Work on unique challenges that directly impact national security.
- Qualifications: Experience in test automation, coding, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with a focus on innovation and quality.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: London (region)
About the job
MI5 keeps the country safe from serious threats like terrorism and attempts by states to harm the UK, its people and way of life. We carry out investigations by obtaining, analysing, and assessing intelligence, and then work with a range of partners including MI6 and GCHQ to disrupt these threats. Through our protective security arm, we provide advice and guidance to government, businesses and other organisations about how to keep themselves safe. A role in MI5 means you'll do unique and challenging work in a supportive and encouraging environment, making a real difference to UK national security.
Job description
As a Test Engineer, you'll help us deliver high-quality products that keep the country safe. You'll join a specialist team where you'll handle both functional and non-functional testing, explore fresh methodologies, mentor colleagues, and champion quality in everything we build. You will also:
- develop and execute thorough test plans to ensure our products are reliable and high-quality
- adopt, and improve automated test frameworks to provide fast, scalable feedback for complex platform capabilities
- champion testing and quality engineering by refining processes and helping teams reach the best outcomes
- collaborate with developers, analysts, product managers, and colleagues across the organisation to embed test engineering into our development approach
- work with external partners, vendors, and clients to support joint testing activities, integrate third-party tools, and ensure compatibility with external systems
This role may involve occasional travel around the country to attend training sessions or events several times a year. This may include day trips to other regional sites, for example.
Person specification
You're confident designing test suites for automation that validate both functional and non-functional requirements, and executing end-to-end, integration, and regression testing across distributed systems. Your attention to detail means your testing is thorough, results are accurate and quality is always there. You'll have hands-on coding experience in at least one common language (Java, C#, Python, or TypeScript), plus practical experience with automation tools like Playwright, Selenium, or Cypress. You'll also have:
- experience with version control systems like Git and working with CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery or Deployment) pipelines
- awareness of new testing tools and approaches
- strong communication skills, combining active listening with clear writing and speaking to effectively share test plans, results, and issues with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
- a collaborative mindset, with confidence working as part of a team
- a proactive approach to problem-solving, spotting opportunities to improve before any issues arise
- an interest in developing your skills and exploring new test engineering practices
Experience with cloud-native applications, cloud architecture, or cloud-based testing tools is valuable, but not essential. The same applies if you have a specialism in areas like performance, security, or accessibility testing. Knowledge of Agile ways of working, including TDD (Test-Driven Development), BDD (Behaviour-Driven Development), Scrum, or Kanban is also beneficial, as is ISEB (Information System Examination Board) or ISTQB Foundation (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) certification, or an understanding of these standards.
Test Engineer - MI5 The Security Service - HEO in City of London employer: Government Digital & Data
Contact Detail:
Government Digital & Data Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Engineer - MI5 The Security Service - HEO in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former MI5 employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role as a Test Engineer. Personal connections can give you insights that job descriptions just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Make sure you're comfortable discussing your experience with automation tools like Selenium or Playwright. We want to see how you can apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios, so practice explaining your thought process.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your collaborative spirit! During interviews, highlight examples of how you've worked with cross-functional teams. MI5 values teamwork, so share stories that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical folks.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of MI5's mission to keep the UK safe. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Test Engineer - MI5 The Security Service - HEO in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Test Engineer role at MI5. Highlight your experience with automation tools and coding languages that match the job description. We want to see how your skills align with our mission to keep the country safe!
Showcase Your Testing Skills: When writing your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples of your testing experience. Talk about the test plans you've developed and the methodologies you've used. This is your chance to shine a light on your attention to detail and problem-solving abilities!
Communicate Clearly: Strong communication skills are key in this role. Make sure your application reflects your ability to convey complex ideas simply. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well, so we can easily understand your experience and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Digital & Data
✨Know Your Testing Tools
Make sure you’re well-versed in the automation tools mentioned in the job description, like Playwright, Selenium, or Cypress. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with these tools and how you've used them to improve testing processes.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with developers, analysts, and product managers, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past projects. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve shared test plans and results with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of specific instances where you identified potential issues before they became problems. Discuss your proactive approach to problem-solving and how you’ve implemented improvements in testing processes or frameworks.
✨Stay Updated on Testing Methodologies
Familiarise yourself with the latest testing methodologies and tools. Be prepared to discuss any new approaches you’ve explored and how they could benefit the team at MI5. Showing a genuine interest in continuous learning will set you apart.