Careers at TOAD
Working at TOAD
TOAD offers unique career opportunities for individuals with exceptional technical abilities. Our work encompasses some of the most challenging technical problems facing the United Kingdom today. Our staff engage with unique technical challenges that few others will ever encounter.
Application Process and Vetting
The recruitment process at TOAD involves a rigorous multi-stage assessment, culminating in comprehensive security vetting. Due to the sensitive nature of our work, specific details of the assessment process cannot be disclosed until the appropriate stages of the recruitment process are reached and necessary security protocols are initiated.
All successful candidates will be required to undergo security vetting, with the level determined by the specific role. The majority of roles require Developed Vetting (DV), the highest level of security clearance within the UK government for most positions. A very small number of highly specialized roles may require Enhanced Developed Vetting (eDV), which provides an additional layer of assurance above DV.
DV is designed to assess an individual's trustworthiness, integrity, and loyalty, ensuring they can be entrusted with access to highly sensitive information and assets. The DV process is thorough and can typically take between 6-12 months to complete, although in some cases, it may take longer. This timeframe is dependent on various factors, including the complexity of individual circumstances and the availability of information from third parties.
The DV process includes, but is not limited to:
- Completion of a detailed security questionnaire covering personal history, finances, and associations.
- Checks against criminal records (both spent and unspent), Security Service records, and financial history.
- Detailed interviews with trained vetting officers to explore personal circumstances, motivations, and potential vulnerabilities.
- Enquiries with referees and other relevant individuals to corroborate information and provide further insights into the applicant's character and background.
- A thorough review of personal finances, including assets, liabilities, income, and expenditure, taking into account the joint financial position with a spouse or partner where applicable.
For more information on clearance levels, please refer to the official government guidance: National Security Vetting: clearance levels.
Applicants should be aware that the DV process is intrusive by necessity. Candor and cooperation throughout the vetting process are essential. Any attempt to withhold or misrepresent information may result in the application being rejected.
A small number of highly specialized roles may require Enhanced Developed Vetting (eDV). eDV provides an additional level of assurance for roles with exceptional access to highly sensitive information and assets. This level of vetting can only be requested by authorized sponsors with prior agreement from UK Security Vetting (UKSV) and the Cabinet Office. The eDV process builds upon the DV checks and includes additional scrutiny, such as more detailed family and travel history checks and further interviews. More information on eDV can be found in the official government guidance: eDV - Guidance Pack for Applicants.
All applicants for any security cleared role must first meet the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). You can find more information about the BPSS here: Government Baseline Personnel Security Standard.
Security Requirements and Ongoing Obligations
Due to the nature of TOAD's work, stringent security requirements are in place for all personnel. While specific nationality requirements may vary depending on the role, a strong connection to the UK is essential. For many roles, British citizenship and a substantial period of residency in the UK will be required. Specific residency requirements will be outlined in the job description for each vacancy.
Successful candidates will be expected to maintain the highest standards of discretion and confidentiality throughout their employment. This includes, but is not limited to, safeguarding sensitive information relating to projects, methodologies, operational capabilities, and the identities of colleagues. Unauthorized disclosure of such information could have severe consequences, including legal action.
It is important to understand that security clearance is not a one-time event but an ongoing obligation. DV and eDV clearances are subject to periodic review, typically every 7 years for DV, and may be reviewed earlier if specific risks are identified. Personnel are expected to report any changes in their personal circumstances that may be relevant to their security clearance. This includes changes in financial circumstances, relationships, and any contact with foreign powers.
Furthermore, all personnel are subject to the Official Secrets Act and other relevant legislation. A comprehensive understanding of these legal obligations is essential for all TOAD employees.
Current Opportunities
Technical Officer
Analysis and assessment of complex technical data using departmental systems and methodologies.
Research and Development Manager
Managing technical research projects within specialized facilities and overseeing sensitive developmental programs.
Senior Systems Analyst
Technical assessment and implementation of departmental systems.
Operations Support Officer
Supporting key technical operations through analysis and assessment functions.
Due to the sensitive nature of our work, many aspects of these roles cannot be fully described in public documentation. Further details will be provided to candidates who meet the initial security requirements.