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Working in Communications

The Government Communication Service (GCS) is the professional body for more than 7,000 public service communicators working in government departments, agencies and arm’s length bodies.


Learn about the various career paths you could take within government comms from internal communications to national campaigns.

“Communication is changing fast. The transformative power of technology is creating new opportunities, challenges, and ethical questions but great people will always remain at the heart of our work.”

Simon Baugh

Chief Executive, Government Communication Service

Not all vacancies in GCS are shown below.

Visit Civil Service Jobs for our full range of available roles.

Technical Communications Operator

Cabinet Office

London Sw

£33,200

Closes: 18 November 2024
  • Administration / Corporate Support
  • Communications / Marketing
  • Operational Delivery

Working in GCS

To support the Prime Minister’s priorities, we need brilliant people – a skilled and diverse workforce across the UK that reflects the population we serve.

People work in government communications because what we do matters. We explain the objectives and policies of the government of the day. We provide clarity and reassurance to the public at times of crisis. We support businesses to grow. We protect our environment. We help those in need to access support.

What we do

  • Inform people about legal or statutory requirements (tax returns)
  • Help the public understand changing Government priorities (benefits systems)
  • Encourage people to change behaviour (tackling violence against women and girls)
  • Let people know about public services (encouraging voting or what to do in a crisis)
  • Enhance the reputation of the country by promoting the UK to people overseas

Our Award-Winning Apprenticeship

A GCS apprenticeship will develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to begin an exciting career in communications.

Our 18-month apprenticeship is aimed at all levels, ages and academic backgrounds. It will involve working in one or more teams across GCS with 80% of apprentices staying on in the Civil Service after completion.

You will be working towards a level 4 PR and Communications qualification.

A group of 28 apprentices from GCS stand outside number 10 Downing Street.

GCS Disciplines

The GCS comprises a variety of different roles – from comms planning and strategy to videographers, data specialists and press and media management. Each role fits within one of the seven Modern Communications Operating Model (MCOM) communication disciplines or job families within the GCS.

Why Join Us

A tailored induction for new starters including in-person networking events.

A ‘buddy’ to help you navigate your first weeks and months in the profession.

A curriculum designed to support your continued development during your communications career.

Advice, support and opportunities, both on and off the job, from the GCS community across the UK and beyond.

Our Career Framework

The Career Framework is for everyone – from policy colleagues looking to move into communications, to existing communicators from central government, arm’s length bodies and/or devolved administrations looking to progress their careers.

Delivering World-Class Public Service Communications

GCS is behind many of the UK Government’s national campaigns. What could you create?

Show more
A GCS campaign image to encourage people to become teachers. Picture shows a pupil outside school, slogan says "Teaching. Every lesson saves a life"
GREAT campaign image. A disconnected Union Flag fades into a red background. The words GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND are shown

Blogs from GCS colleagues

From teacher to GCS apprentice

Mandi Johal, GCS Apprentice, Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, discusses her career journey from Primary School teacher to GCS apprentice… 

GCS apprentice revisited: Amber Warne

Amber Warne reflects on her journey and looks towards her future in GCS.

5 Minutes with Fiona Richards and Andrew Darby

Fiona and Andrew who lead the Media Discipline across government, sit down for an interview.

Kick-starting my career with a GCS Apprenticeship 

Sarah Baxendale writes about what a day in the life of a GCS apprentice involves.

5 mins with Zara Farrar

Zara, Deputy Head of Discipline for Digital, discusses digital communications.

Insights from an apprentice and their line manager

Paige Anderson and Tom Durham discuss development for apprentices.