Cyber Defence Analyst – Cyber Direct Entry

Ministry of Defence - ZigZag Careers Pathway; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading government entity in the United Kingdom is seeking a Cyber Defence Analyst to strengthen its response to cyber threats. Successful candidates will receive tailored training and fast-tracked entry into military cyber roles. Responsibilities include monitoring data security and conducting risk assessments. The ideal applicant will have a passion for cybersecurity and may possess programming skills. Starting salary begins at £42,782, with opportunities for additional payments and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Free medical and dental care

Childcare benefits

Enhanced parental leave

Flexible service arrangements

Automatic enrolment in pension scheme

Qualifications

• Interest in protecting digital environments through experience or qualifications.
• Willing to learn programming languages like Python, Java, or PowerShell.
• Experience in network security, digital forensics, or penetration testing.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse network traffic and security alerts.
• Conduct risk assessments and apply security measures.
• Investigate and respond to cybersecurity incidents.

Skills

Passion for cybersecurity

Programming or scripting languages

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Ability to explain technical concepts

Education

Professional certifications (e.g., CEH, OSCP)

Job description

Cyber Defence Analyst – Cyber Direct Entry

Grade: Mil OR4

Location: Multiple, including Southwest and Northwest England

Contract: Regular Military Commitment with bespoke TACOS

Security clearance: DV

Closing date: 28 Feb 2026, 23:55

All offers of employment are subject to achieving UK security clearance. Applicants normally need at least five years of UK residency to gain this clearance.

Overview

Cyber Direct Entry offers an accelerated route into military cyber roles for individuals with proven cyber skills or aptitude. This programme strengthens the UK’s ability to respond to growing cyber threats.

You’ll receive tailored training focused on essential skills for operating in cyberspace. Traditional medical and fitness standards are not our immediate concern, and waivers can be applied where appropriate.

We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds. Cyber talent comes from every identity, and we know that a diverse workforce makes us stronger.

The cyber sector includes many neurodivergent professionals, and we embrace neurodiversity. Different ways of thinking often lead to unique insights.

Formal qualifications are not essential. If you can show your skills and passion for cyber, we want to hear from you. Successful applicants will be fast-tracked into operational cyber roles.

The Role

Cyber Defence Analysts monitor and analyse data from security tools—such as IDS alerts, firewalls, and network traffic logs—to detect and respond to potential threats. You’ll perform reactive monitoring and anomaly-based analysis to identify suspicious activity and enforce security rules.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse network traffic, logs, and alerts using cyber defence tools to identify and mitigate threats and vulnerabilities
• Conduct risk assessments and apply security measures aligned with cybersecurity principles and regulations
• Investigate and respond to cybersecurity incidents using intrusion detection, forensic analysis, and vulnerability assessments
• Maintain secure authentication, authorisation, and access controls to protect sensitive data and systems
• Work with stakeholders to design and improve network security architectures using knowledge of protocols, encryption, and emerging technologies

About You

• Has a passion for cybersecurity and an interest in protecting digital environments, shown through qualifications or practical experience
• Can use or is willing to learn programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, Java, PowerShell)
• Understands or has experience in areas like network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, or incident response
• Brings strong analytical and problem-solving skills and can adapt to complex challenges
• Works well in diverse teams and can explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences

Preferred Qualifications: Professional certifications such as CEH, OSCP, or CompTIA Security+ are desirable, as is knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001) and incident response methodologies.

Security requirement: Candidates must achieve and maintain Developed Vetting (DV). Failure to do so may result in termination of employment.

Training

Fast‑tracked basic military training will introduce you to the Armed Forces without some traditional military skills (e.g., weapon training).

Bespoke professional training will provide foundational cyber skills for Defence and show how your work supports national security.

Ongoing specialist training and mentoring, including industry courses (e.g., SANS), will be available throughout your role.

Salary & Benefits

Base Salary: Starting at £42,782, with progression to over £60,000

Additional cyber‑skills payments: From £6,270 per year for junior operators to £26,125 per year for highly experienced individuals

Pension: Automatic enrolment in the non‑contributory Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 (opt‑out available)

Leave: 30 days annual leave plus eight UK bank holidays

• Free medical and dental care
• Childcare benefits
• Enhanced parental leave
• Flexible service arrangements

Application Process

Don’t meet all the requirements? Get in touch anyway – we are keen to hear from talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Application: submit a CV via the SERVE portal. Eligibility checks are completed, and applications are sifted for suitability.

Interview: shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview covering technical skills, qualifications and suitability for military service (command, leadership and management experience).

Medical Assessment: all candidates must pass a medical screening.

Offer: successful candidates receive terms and conditions, and a job offer letter.

For questions or more information, contact: [e-mail].