Looking for a reliable tailor who respects safety rules to retouch... Spy equipment. The General Directorate of External Intelligence (DGSE) is looking for a “soft materials tailor” on a permanent and full-time basis, according to an announcement posted on the social network LinkedIn a week ago, spotted by Ouest- France.
“Within a textile and leather manufacturing unit focused on accessory work, you will mainly be responsible for carrying out specific alterations and modifying existing compositions, mainly in unique pieces or very small series,” specifies the ad, which promises “a unique context of activity” and a profession “at the service of operations”. The position is based in the Paris region.
“Rigour”, “reliability”, “perseverance”
If the announcement remains vague on the nature of the missions to be carried out, a former head of the intelligence services, quoted by the daily Ouest-France, specifies that this support function involves retouching clothing, bags or various accessories to integrate surveillance equipment.
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To apply, French nationality is required. The French secret services also require a Bac Pro and/or a BTS in Fashion Professions/Leather Professions, as well as initial professional experience in the field.
The qualities required? “Rigour”, “reliability”, “perseverance”, “team spirit” or even “technical curiosity”, with “mastery of industrial sewing machines” and “good knowledge of the materials handled and their characteristics”.
The DGSE is recruiting
However, you will need to be patient before joining the position. The DGSE recruitment process lasts 4 to 6 months, the intelligence agency specifies on its website, with a stage devoted to psychological and security studies.
The DGSE recruits regularly, with more than 248 different professions on offer. In 2023, the secret services launched a vast campaign with 800 positions to fill. By 2030, with the new military programming law, External Security is counting on 700 additional personnel.