Government Operational Research Service - Mainstream Recruitment

Details of eligibility requirements and the application process for the mainstream scheme, the route through which most people join.

Most of our Operational Research Analysts join us via the Mainstream route. You’ll be directly appointed to a role in a government department, and progress at your own pace.

You’ll enter at a different level depending on your background: Level 2 is our entry grade for recent graduates and postgraduates, while Level 3 is for those with experience of a wider range of analysis, and of managing analytical projects.

Applications to the Mainstream run several times a year, typically in the spring and the autumn. When these recruitment rounds are running, you can apply through the Civil Service Jobs website. You can find the application pages by clicking ‘Advanced Search’, and then selecting ‘Operational Research’ from the ‘Type of Role’ drop down menu.

You are eligible to apply for the Civil Service Mainstream if:

There are two stages to the application process - an online application form, and an interview.

The application form assesses you on the behaviours and technical skills as outlined in the Civil Service Success Profiles. If your application is successful at the initial stage, we will invite you to interview. These are usually held virtually, and consists of a short presentation on a topic you’ll be given on the day, and questions which will assess you further on your behaviours and technical skills.

If you are successful, you will be offered a role, subject to security clearance and right to work checks.

On appointment, you will join the Government Operational Research Service (GORS) alongside over 1,500 members.