Cyber Incident Responder – Cyber Direct Entry

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

Job summary

A national security organization is hiring a Cyber Incident Responder to safeguard digital environments crucial for national security. This role offers tailored training in cybersecurity and allows for career advancement, with a starting salary at £42,782, reaching over £60,000 with experience. Benefits include a comprehensive pension scheme, annual leave of 30 days, and various other perks. If you're passionate about cybersecurity and eager to protect digital spaces, apply now to join the team.

Benefits

Free medical and dental care

Childcare benefits

Enhanced parental leave

Flexible service arrangements

Qualifications

• Passion for cybersecurity and protecting digital environments.
• Willing to learn programming or scripting languages.
• Understanding of network security and incident response.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze cyber threats continuously.
• Lead the triage and resolution of cybersecurity incidents.
• Implement and maintain essential security controls.

Skills

Cybersecurity passion

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Ability to explain technical concepts

Education

Relevant qualifications or practical experience

Tools

Python

Java

PowerShell

Job description

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 below role represents one of many opportunities that will be available to you throughout your career. Final confirmation of cyber roles and locations will be made on completion of your initial training; decisions will take into account your skills, preferences and the needs of Defence.

The Role

A Cyber Incident Responder is an on‑site specialist responsible for triaging, containing, and coordinating security engineering and response efforts during cyber incidents. Proficient in a wide range of security controls, they collaborate with local domain specialists to implement effective security measures.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse cyber threats continuously, identifying, analysing, and responding to potential threats, vulnerabilities, and incidents using intrusion detection methodologies and tools.
• Lead the triage, containment, and resolution of cybersecurity incidents, ensuring timely and effective responses while adhering to established incident response methodologies and timelines.
• Assess and mitigate cybersecurity risks by applying risk management processes, ensuring compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and organisational policies related to cybersecurity and privacy.
• Implement and maintain security controls, including network access mechanisms, system hardening techniques, and data backup and recovery processes to safeguard critical systems and data.
• Document and escalated incidents, prepare technical reports, and provide actionable recommendations to stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of findings and adherence to organisational cybersecurity protocols.

About You

• Passion for cybersecurity and an interest in protecting digital environments, shown through qualifications or practical experience.
• Willing or able to learn programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, Java, PowerShell).
• Experience or understanding of network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, or incident response.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills and ability to 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.
• Other benefits: Free medical and dental care, childcare benefits, enhanced parental leave, and flexible service arrangements.

Application process

• Application: submit 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.

Don’t meet all the requirements? Get in touch anyway – we are keen to hear from talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. For questions or more information, contact: People‑Tx‑[e-mail].