Cyber Security Analyst

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

Job summary

Join a leading intelligence agency as a Cyber Security Analyst, where you will work with a dedicated team to combat cyber threats. This role offers flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development in a supportive environment. Ideal candidates will have a foundational cybersecurity certification and a passion for IT.

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

• Experience in a cybersecurity role or foundational certification required.
• Passion for IT and cybersecurity is essential.

Responsibilities

• Defend against cyber threats like malware and phishing.
• Analyze alerts, logs, and network traffic using tools.
• Support digital forensics during security incidents.

Skills

Scripting

Teamwork

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

CompTIA Security+

GSEC

Tools

Splunk

AWS

Azure

Windows OS

Linux OS

Python

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. Approximately 20% home working may be possible depending on business needs.

About Us

GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber, and security agency committed to keeping the UK safe. We utilize cutting-edge technology, ingenuity, and partnerships to identify, analyze, and disrupt threats. Collaborating with MI5 and MI6, we protect the UK from terrorism, cyber-attacks, and espionage. Join us for varied, fascinating work in a supportive, inclusive environment emphasizing teamwork.

The Role

As a Cyber Security Analyst, you will work with a close-knit team to defend against cyber threats such as malware, insider activity, DDoS attacks, and phishing. Your responsibilities include detecting, responding to, and mitigating risks, analyzing alerts, logs, network traffic, and endpoint data using tools like Splunk, developing detection content, and using threat intelligence to enhance security. You may also support digital forensics during security incidents. 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, knowledge of Windows and Linux OS, familiarity with Python, and an interest in developing skills in AWS and Azure. Candidates must hold a foundational cybersecurity certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+, GSEC) or have 6 months of experience in a cybersecurity role. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential.

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 and conference attendance may be available but are not mandatory.

Rewards and Benefits

• Starting salary of £36,408 plus benefits
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years
• Public and privilege 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

We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled, and neurodivergent individuals. Learn more at our website.

Disability Confident

GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader, committed to fair recruitment and support for disabled applicants. We offer reasonable adjustments and support throughout the process.

Application Process

Our process is fair and merit-based, involving application review, virtual interviews, and conditional offers. The entire process may take 6-9 months, including vetting. Continue current employment until final offers are made.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must be UK citizens or hold dual British nationality and pass Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. Considerations include residency, drug policy, and application security. We do not cover relocation costs, and applications should be submitted from within the UK.