At a Glance
- Tasks: Keep the UK Government connected by managing telephony infrastructure and resolving complex issues.
- Company: Join GCHQ, a vital part of the UK's security and communication network.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £37,892, 25 days leave, excellent pension, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key; we welcome applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in telephony infrastructure and networking; Cisco knowledge is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 37892 - 37892 £ per year.
Flexible working arrangements are supported, including flexitime with flexible start and finish times, as well as the option to work full‑time, part‑time or compressed hours.
As a Telephony Infrastructure Engineer at GCHQ you will play a vital part in keeping the UK Government connected when it matters most. You will work across a range of classified telephony platforms – including call gateways, enterprise media and transcription services – ensuring these services remain resilient, compliant and ready for any situation. Your responsibilities include engineering improvements, resolving complex cross‑domain issues, collaborating closely with partners and suppliers, and contributing to the strengthening of our communication capabilities.
While no specific qualifications are required, you should have experience in telephony infrastructure, with a solid understanding of networking and the support and maintenance of voice and unified communications (UC) systems. Experience with Cisco technologies is highly beneficial. You should demonstrate a customer‑centric focus, sound judgement and the ability to assess information and deliver reliable solutions. Good administration skills, general Windows and Linux experience, and a proactive, independent mindset are also essential. Clear, confident communication and the ability to influence and collaborate with stakeholders are required.
From day one you will receive departmental induction and a defined training pathway with a mentor. There are three skill gateways that you will progress through within the grade, each building on the last. You will be expected to work towards the next level within the first 12 months, and over a 2‑to‑3‑year placement you will develop steadily towards Infrastructure Engineering Level 2, gaining expertise and impact. The pathway includes internal and external accreditation, including opportunities to work towards Cisco qualifications and other certifications.
Starting salary of £37,892 plus benefits:
- 25 days of annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years; an additional 10.5 days of public and privilege holidays
- Employee performance scheme opportunities
- Interest‑free season ticket loan
- Excellent pension scheme
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme
- Facilities such as gym, restaurant and on‑site coffee bars where available
- Paid parental and adoption leave
At GCHQ diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission. We welcome and encourage applications from everyone, including people from under‑represented groups, those with disabilities, and people from low socio‑economic backgrounds. We’re disability confident GCHQ is proud to have achieved Leader status within the Disability Confident scheme. We aim to offer disabled applicants a fair and proportionate number of interview opportunities.
Infrastructure Engineer (Telephony) Ref. 3734 in Cheltenham employer: UK Intelligence Services
GCHQ is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises flexibility and employee growth. As a Telephony Infrastructure Engineer, you will benefit from a structured training pathway, mentorship, and opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to the vital mission of keeping the UK Government connected. With competitive salaries, generous leave policies, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, GCHQ provides a rewarding environment for those seeking meaningful employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Infrastructure Engineer (Telephony) Ref. 3734 in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at GCHQ or in similar roles on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Since this role involves telephony infrastructure, make sure you can talk confidently about your experience with Cisco technologies and voice systems.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've tackled complex issues in the past. GCHQ loves candidates who can think on their feet and deliver reliable solutions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at GCHQ.
We think you need these skills to ace Infrastructure Engineer (Telephony) Ref. 3734 in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Telephony Infrastructure Engineer role. Highlight your experience with telephony infrastructure and any relevant Cisco technologies, as this will show us you’re a great fit for the position.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to emphasise your customer-centric focus and problem-solving abilities. We want to see how you’ve tackled complex issues in the past, so share specific examples that demonstrate your skills and judgement.
Be Clear and Confident:When writing your application, use clear and confident language. This is your chance to communicate effectively, just like you would in the role. Make sure your personality shines through while keeping it professional!
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 company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Intelligence Services
✨Know Your Tech
Make sure you brush up on your telephony infrastructure knowledge, especially around Cisco technologies. Familiarise yourself with the specific systems mentioned in the job description, like call gateways and unified communications. This will show that you're not just interested but also well-prepared.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss past experiences where you've resolved complex issues, particularly in cross-domain environments. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, highlighting your proactive mindset and customer-centric focus.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since clear communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts confidently. Prepare to explain technical concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to collaborate with various stakeholders. This will demonstrate your ability to influence and work effectively with others.
✨Embrace Flexibility
Understand the flexible working arrangements offered and be prepared to discuss how you can adapt to different working hours or conditions. This shows that you're open-minded and ready to fit into their culture, which is a big plus for any employer.
