Job summary
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
- build, 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.
Training and development
From day one, you’ll be supported in your role. Your induction begins with a skills assessment so we can tailor your training to what you need most, and you'll be paired with experienced team members who'll mentor you along the way. Along with this, you’ll also be introduced to our organisation, the team, and any ongoing and upcoming projects.
To make sure we address every area of your growth, we use the Government Digital and Data Profession Capability Framework (formerly the Digital Data and Technology (DDaT) Profession Capability Framework). This will help you maintain and grow your technical and non-technical skills. You’ll have opportunities for qualifications, certifications - like AWS (Amazon Web Services), IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology), or BCS (British Computer Society), hackathons, and up to 20% innovation and personal development time.
As you progress, we'll regularly review and recognise your developing skills, providing support wherever you need it. We ask that you actively demonstrate your capabilities against the framework as you progress.While we do need to maintain certain standards (and in rare cases, this might mean adjusting roles and pay to match current capability), this would only happen after we've given you every opportunity and all the support you need to succeed. Our goal is always to help you thrive.
