Cyber Security Analyst

JR United Kingdom; Gloucester; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading intelligence agency in the UK seeks a Cyber Security Analyst to join their team. The role involves defending against cyber threats, analyzing data, and developing detection content. Candidates should possess a passion for IT and cybersecurity, along with relevant experience and certifications. The agency offers flexible working arrangements, comprehensive training, and a supportive environment emphasizing teamwork and development.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Performance recognition schemes

Interest-free season ticket loan

Excellent pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site facilities (gym, restaurant, coffee bars)

Paid parental and adoption leave

Qualifications

• At least 6 months experience in cybersecurity required.
• Foundation-level cybersecurity certification is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Defend against cyber threats like malware and phishing.
• Analyze alerts, logs, and network traffic for security incidents.

Skills

Scripting

Teamwork

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

CompTIA Security+

GSEC

Tools

Splunk

AWS

Azure

Windows

Linux

Job description

Job Title: Cyber Security Analyst

Location: Cheltenham

Salary: £36,408 (including £2,658 non-concessionary payment)

Working Arrangements: Flexible working options available, including full-time, part-time, and compressed hours. Around 20% home working may be available depending on business needs.

About Us

GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber, and security agency dedicated to safeguarding the UK. We utilize advanced technology, ingenuity, and partnerships to identify, analyze, and disrupt threats. Working alongside MI5 and MI6, we protect against terrorism, cyber-attacks, and espionage. Join us for varied and meaningful work in a supportive, inclusive environment emphasizing teamwork.

The Role

As a Cyber Security Analyst, you will work within a close-knit team to defend against cyber threats such as malware, insider threats, DDoS attacks, and phishing. Your responsibilities include detecting, responding to, and mitigating security incidents, analyzing alerts, logs, network traffic, and endpoint data using tools like Splunk, developing detection content, and leveraging threat intelligence. Opportunities to engage in Digital Forensics and operational security are also available. The role offers a unique experience due to the specialized nature of our work.

About You

You should have a passion for IT and cybersecurity, experience with scripting, and familiarity with Windows and Linux OS, Python, and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure. A foundation-level cybersecurity certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+, GSEC) or at least 6 months of experience in cybersecurity is required. You should also possess strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Training and Development

We support your growth through in-house, on-the-job, and external training, including industry-recognized certifications from SANS and OFFSEC. You will be paired with a mentor and gain hands-on experience in threat detection, incident response, and operational strategies. Opportunities for travel, conferences, and staying current with cybersecurity innovations are also available.

Rewards and Benefits

• Starting salary of £36,408 plus benefits
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 after 5 years, plus public holidays
• Performance recognition schemes
• Interest-free season ticket loan
• Excellent pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site facilities (gym, restaurant, coffee bars)
• Paid parental and adoption leave

Equal Opportunities and Inclusion

GCHQ values diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups including women, ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and neurodivergent persons. Details about our diversity initiatives can be found on our website.

Disability Confidence

We are a Disability Confident Leader, committed to fair recruitment practices and providing support throughout the application process, including reasonable adjustments.

Application Process

The process includes an application review, virtual competency and technical interview, and a conditional job offer. The entire process may take 6-9 months, including vetting. We advise maintaining current employment until final offers are made.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must be British citizens or dual nationals, eligible for Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. Considerations include residency within the UK, drug policy adherence, and suitability for security vetting. Applications from overseas are not accepted unless visiting the UK.

Additional Notes

Please create a separate email for correspondence, and ensure your application is submitted from within the UK. The closing date may be brought forward once sufficient applications are received.