Cyber Security Engineer Apprentice

QA; Warrington; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology training provider in Warrington is seeking a Cyber Security Engineer Apprentice to gain hands-on experience in protecting digital assets. You will assist in monitoring IT security systems and support threat assessments, all while learning from industry experts in a dynamic environment. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are essential. Apprenticeship offers 20 days holiday, a pension scheme, and mentorship from cyber security professionals.

Benefits

20 days holiday allowance

Pension scheme

Paid study time

Mentorship from cyber security professionals

Competitive apprenticeship salary

Qualifications

• Genuine interest in IT and cyber security with a willingness to learn new skills.
• Basic understanding of computer networks, operating systems, and cyber threats.

Responsibilities

• Assist in monitoring and maintaining IT security systems.
• Support the identification and assessment of security threats.
• Help respond to security incidents under supervision.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Organisational skills

Education

A-Level in ICT

International Baccalaureate at Level 3 in ICT

Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subject

BTEC Extended Diploma in IT

Job description

Are you passionate about technology and eager to start a career in cyber security?

We are looking for a Cyber Security Engineer Apprentice to join our growing team and gain hands–on experience in protecting digital assets. This is your chance to learn from industry experts and develop practical skills in a dynamic, supportive environment.

Specialist Network Operations Ltd (SNO) is a trusted provider of network managed services, specialising in monitoring and managing large–scale fibre optic networks. Established in 2017, we've expanded into Managed IT Services for SMEs, delivering cloud–first solutions powered by Microsoft technologies like M365 and Azure. Our mission is to keep networks secure, efficient, and future–ready.

Responsibilities

As a Cyber Security Engineer Apprentice at SNO, you'll work alongside experienced professionals to safeguard systems and data. Your responsibilities will include:

• Assisting in monitoring and maintaining IT security systems (firewalls, antivirus, intrusion detection).
• Supporting the identification and assessment of security threats, vulnerabilities, and risks.
• Helping respond to security incidents and participating in investigations under supervision.
• Maintaining documentation on security policies, procedures, and standards.
• Participating in security audits and compliance checks.
• Assisting with user awareness training and promoting best practices.
• Staying up–to–date with the latest cyber security trends and technologies.

What we're looking for

• Genuine interest in IT and cyber security with a willingness to learn new skills.
• Strong problem–solving skills and attention to detail.
• Basic understanding of computer networks, operating systems, and cyber threats (desirable but not essential).
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work collaboratively as a team and use initiative.
• Organisational skills and effective time management.
• Full, clean driving license and access to vehicle (desirable but not essential).

Entry requirements

• An A–Level in ICT
• OR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 in ICT
• OR a Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subject
• OR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)

You may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.

If you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.

For more information please visit the UK ENIC website.

Working hours

37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm with 30 minutes lunch break.

Benefits

• 20 days holiday allowance, increasing to 25 with service, plus UK bank holidays.
• Pension scheme (optional).
• Structured learning and development plan, including paid study time and support for professional qualifications.
• Hands–on experience in a thriving and supportive IT security environment.
• Opportunities to work with cutting–edge security technologies and solutions.
• Mentorship from experienced cyber security professionals.
• Competitive apprenticeship salary with potential for progression upon completion.

Future prospects

90% of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20% higher than the national average.

About QA

Our apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 50,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we're a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.

Interested

Please be advised that this advert may close prior to the closing date stated above if a high number of applications are received. If you are interested in this vacancy please apply below as soon as possible.