Vetting Officers Development Programme

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.

As a Vetting Officer (VO), you'll demonstrate empathy, resilience, great attention to detail and interpersonal skills. Through in-depth personal interviews with potential employees who have recently received a job offer, you'll assess their suitability to hold the highest levels of security clearance (since, without this clearance, they will not be able to be hired).

You'll manage risks that might make our work vulnerable and identify individuals who could pose a threat to national security. Your analysis will help us build a diverse and talented workforce - while helping to keep the UK safe.

We'll be recruiting for roles in three locations: London, Cheltenham and Manchester.

You'll first join us on our Vetting Officer Development Programme - a 13-month tailored programme designed to give you all the training and support you need to succeed. You don't need any specific qualifications to join, as we'll teach you all you need to know. You'll begin with five weeks of classroom training, where you'll learn about our vetting frameworks and processes as well as enhancing your interviewing and report writing skills.

Then, you'll join a team of existing VOs and take on your first caseload. You'll have plenty of support from your colleagues as well as a mentor and a line manager, so there'll always be someone to guide you if needed.

And once qualified as a VO, you'll be expected to stay in the role for four years - growing your skills, sharing your knowledge and with promotion opportunities. It's a unique opportunity to build a rewarding career using your people skills to help protect the UK's interests.

The application window for our Vetting Officer role will open at 3pm on Friday 4th October. In the meantime, we encourage

Flexible working: the first five weeks of the programme is full time, then for the remainder of the 13 month programme, a minimum of four days per week is required. Due to the nature of the role there is limited hybrid working but after the 13 month programme, a range of working patterns are possible including flexi-time, part-time and compressed hours.