FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Unlike other organisations there are limits to what we can tell you in advance. We understand that this may cause some frustration, however once you are further down the recruitment process we can tell you more. For now, here are some questions that we tend to get asked at this stage. You should, of course, make sure you have carefully studied the information on the site, especially the nationality and security clearance aspects.
How long does the recruitment process take?
It varies. For most positions you will be expected to go to two interviews, after which we will vet your application. It is the vetting process that takes time and will depend on a number of factors - your background, your parents' background and the position you're applying for. All told, though, the whole process can take up to nine months and we must ask you to bear this in mind when you apply.
Why is the security clearance so comprehensive?
We will never compromise on security. The nature of our work is such that our employees have access to a wide amount of sensitive information. Should this information get into the wrong hands, then national security would be put at risk. Make no mistake about what this means - lives are at stake. Consequently, we owe it to both our staff and the public at large to insist on the most stringent security clearance procedures. All candidates will undergo a process of Developed Vetting. Some people may find the vetting process intrusive but, if you have nothing to hide then you have nothing to be afraid of. If you do not meet the Developed Vetting requirements for the job and conceal or lie about any vetting issues, then your application will not be taken forward.
In my past, I've taken recreational drugs. Can I still apply?
Yes, but you must be prepared to stop using them completely. We are unable to accept applications from anyone who has used Class A drugs (ecstasy, cocaine, etc) in the last 12 months, or Class B/C drugs (amphetamines, cannabis, etc) within the last 6 months.
Are there any other issues which may affect my application?
Yes. We cannot accept applications from anybody who is currently being treated for an addiction (alcohol, gambling, etc) or has received such treatment in the last 12 months; has ever suffered from manic depression or schizophrenia; is currently bankrupt or the subject of an Individual Voluntary Agreement (IVA).
Who can I tell about my application?
You may tell your parents, close partner or spouse, provided that they are British. You should also make them aware of the importance of discretion. Please note that if you tell anybody else, your application may not be successful.
How family-friendly is SIS?
We make every effort to accommodate the individual needs of our staff and take our employment responsibilities very seriously. Wherever possible, we try to ensure that family life is not disrupted. To this end, we offer generous maternity pay, a subsidised children's holiday play scheme and childcare vouchers. The truth of the matter is that we're a thoroughly modern, progressive organisation.
Will I have to sign the Official Secrets Act?
Yes. The Official Secrets Act (1989) prohibits the disclosure of sensitive information relating to security, intelligence, defence and foreign relations, and applies to all applicants to SIS. You can read more about the Official Secrets Act at the Office of Public Sector Information.
Will I be required to sit any tests?
Probably, yes, although, again, this will depend upon the nature of the position you're applying for. Any tests you do take will be designed to assess your aptitude or suitability for the job.
Do I need to be a British citizen?
Yes. In addition, at least one of your parents must be a British citizen or have substantial ties with the UK (if deceased, the parent must have had British citizenship/substantial ties with the UK). You will also need to meet our residency rule. Normally this means that you will need to have lived in the UK for the last 10 years, but you may still be eligible even if you have not been here all that time. British dual nationals may apply but must be prepared to renounce their other nationality, if required before joining SIS.
Is there an age limit?
You must be at least 21 years old at time of entry. Our current retirement age is 65.
What position or rank will I start in?
Rather than advertise for, say, "Department Manager" or "Administrator: Civil Service Pay Band 2", we recruit into broad job families - Operational Officer, for example, is a catch-all term for Case Officer, Reports Officer and Targeting Officer. Due to the nature of our work, we cannot go into too much detail about any specific job. Should your application prove successful, we will assign you the position best suited to your abilities.
What are the benefits of working for SIS?
Apart from the obvious benefits of helping to make your country safer and more prosperous, benefits include: pension; health care scheme; generous maternity pay; subsidised children's holiday play scheme; accommodation scheme; 25 days' holiday plus 10.5 public and privilege days; interest-free season ticket loan; staff restaurant; subsidised gym; bicycle to work scheme; childcare vouchers.
Do you offer work experience opportunities/placements or run graduate sponsorship schemes?
No. Unfortunately we are unable to offer any of these for security reasons.
