Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst – Cyber Direct Entry

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

Job summary

A defence organization is seeking candidates for Cyber Direct Entry roles. The program offers tailored training for military cyber positions, with a focus on analyzing intrusion data, developing intelligence reports, and collaborating with cybersecurity teams. Applicants should have a passion for cybersecurity and possess strong analytical skills, with programming knowledge as a plus. The salary starts at £42,782 with progression and additional benefits such as a pension scheme and generous leave. Apply to join a diverse workforce that values unique insights.

Benefits

Free medical and dental care

Childcare benefits

Enhanced parental leave

Flexible service arrangements

Qualifications

• Interest in protecting digital environments through qualifications or experience.
• Willingness to learn programming or scripting languages.
• Experience in network security, digital forensics, or incident response.
• Strong analytical skills and adaptability in complex challenges.
• Ability to work in diverse teams and communicate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Analyse intrusion data and identify trends.
• Develop and deliver intelligence reports.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to update detection rules.
• Monitor and respond to threats using cyber defense tools.
• Engage and provide guidance to stakeholders.

Skills

Passion for cybersecurity

Programming or scripting languages

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Ability to explain technical concepts

Education

Professional certifications (CEH, OSCP, CompTIA Security+)

Tools

Cyber defense tools

Job description

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

Analyses intrusion data and adversary tactics to maintain a deep understanding of threat actors’ intent and techniques. Produces actionable intelligence to support incident response, malware analysis, and intelligence‑led threat hunting.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse Threat Data and Identify Trends – Conduct in‑depth analysis of intrusion data, log files, and network, adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), and provide actionable intelligence to support incident response and threat hunting.
• Develop and Deliver Intelligence Reports – Produce technical summaries, incident reports, and trend analysis documents, ensuring findings are clearly communicated to stakeholders and leadership through well‑prepared briefings and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with Cybersecurity Teams – Coordinate with Cyber Defence Analysts and intelligence teams to update detection rules, signatures, and blacklists, ensuring the organisation’s defences are aligned with the latest threat intelligence.
• Monitor and Respond to Threats – Use cyber defence tools to monitor system activity, analyse network alerts, and identify potential security violations. Escalate incidents, document event history, and provide recommendations for immediate remediation.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Guidance – Establish and maintain communication channels with internal and external stakeholders, share insights on the organisation’s threat environment, and provide cybersecurity guidance to improve risk management and resilience.

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.

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].

Closing date: 28 Feb 2025.

Security clearance: DV (Applicants normally need at least five years of UK residency to gain this clearance).