Security Service personnel

Your day-to-day duties will vary according to your role. You could:

• collect information on threats to national security
•  watch and report on suspects' movements and actions
•  use specialist IT or electronics equipment to record and observe activities
•  make decisions about potential threats
•  support and troubleshoot IT systems
•  develop software systems
•  provide administrative support in departments like finance or HR

• knowledge of public safety and security 
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to use your initiative
• complex problem-solving skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Due to the sensitive nature of the work, you have to undergo background checks, which could include detailed questions about your life. You also have to provide work and character references. You can get more information about the vetting process and eligibility from the Security Service MI5.

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Different roles in the security services have different entry routes.

With experience and a good performance record, you could move into management. You could also move to another station in the UK or apply for opportunities with SIS (Secret Intelligence Service MI6) and GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters).