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TECHNOLOGY PROFILES

Steve, Software Developer

Click here to listen to Steve's words - spoken by an actor

After working in the City for many years, I finally decided I wanted something more than the yearly pursuit of the next bonus cheque. SIS was openly advertising for software developers and I just had to try my luck and sent them my CV. I never thought it would lead anywhere - surely only Oxbridge boys and rocket scientists worked for SIS right?

After my application was successful I was to find out that this image was just for the movies. SIS recruits from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures and seeks to bring out the best of each employee. Even in the software arena, few people will arrive with all the skills required to do their job effectively. Some are experienced programmers whilst others are fresh out of University - SIS is set up to develop the skills of both.

Most people join with a number of other people and will go through some initial training together. This really creates a common bond and settles you in to SIS quickly. I still see the majority of my induction group regularly and unlike most other jobs, everybody is still here - that says volumes.

Since joining SIS I've managed to work on a wide range of varied projects using a host of cutting edge technologies. What strikes me though is not just the technology (I expected that to impress) but the people. Everyone seems to be there because it means something more than just a job. These people will go the extra mile for you and you'll find you do the same for them. You leave your ego at the door because you're trying to make a difference - and we honestly believe that. It makes getting into work on a Monday morning that much easier!

Another wonderful feature of SIS is the ability to move into different work streams after a few years. I've recently moved into IT security - a new area for me and one I find fascinating. These are opportunities that are simply not normally available in the commercial sector.

Mike, Network Engineer

I joined SIS three years ago as an engineer in the Network and Systems Group. This section's main function is to carry out the installation and maintenance of the core UK infrastructure across a diverse range of IT and communication equipment. My knowledge of IT hardware was very limited before I joined SIS but I have now gained extensive knowledge in some very sought after technical fields.

The engineering team works with many different technologies, ranging from legacy systems to industry standard network devices. Some of the tasks involved can include installing or fixing a phone on a desk, back-end server and network equipment, right up to working with WAN circuits.

If a fellow IT engineer was to ask me what my work entails all I would say is that my job is more rewarding than theirs. Working in the engineering team is almost like having access to all areas of SIS, with the ability to support so many different teams within SIS. One day you could be installing a PC, the next you might be supporting an operational team with its own bespoke networks and equipment.

Training was an important factor in my decision to join SIS. Since joining I have received intensive on the job training and had the ability to embark on external courses and gain significant industry standard qualifications. I have also been lucky to travel with the Service and to go to some places I would never have had the opportunity to visit. I have seen first hand that my work behind the scenes makes a difference to the way SIS is able to operate and the Service's ability to tackle international threats.

My time in the engineering area is due to end shortly, as I have recently been successful in moving to the UK Software Infrastructure Team, where my work will span several network environments. Moving into the software area will allow me to work on some cutting edge software systems.

My experience of working in SIS has been challenging and incredibly rewarding. No matter where I am or what I am doing, I'll remember that I'm making a difference.

Lisa, Designer

I have worked for SIS for over twelve years, having come from a background in technical photography and jobs in hospitals and universities. I joined SIS as a specialist with photographic and technical design skills. I arrived at an interesting time when the Service was investing in the transition to digital photography and digital media. Consequently the training opportunities have been excellent and I have been able to keep my skills up to date.

I line manage a team of eight photographers and designers and we form part of a wider design and print group. My work has covered many aspects of technical photography and web design and I now form part of the team working on the Service intranet.

SIS uses up to date equipment and software and has excellent in-house technical support. Workloads and deadlines can be demanding but I find this one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I enjoy advising and supporting operational staff even if some of the requests can be tough. Finding solutions to these challenges and working towards a common purpose is extremely rewarding. In some ways this is a very typical in-house department but in other ways unlike anywhere else.

My post is London-based but have had some opportunities to travel to America and Asia which have been very interesting.

Working within SIS there is a caring, family-atmosphere. The Service looks after its employees and I have personally benefited from the Service's welfare support.