Cyber Vulnerability Analyst – Cyber Direct Entry

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

Job summary

A national defense recruitment program is seeking a Cyber Vulnerability Analyst to strengthen cyber protections. The role involves evaluating security measures and providing actionable insights. Ideal candidates should be passionate about cybersecurity and willing to learn relevant programming languages. Training will fast-track you into military cyber roles, and the compensation starts at £42,782 with additional benefits. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds to shape the future of cyber defense.

Benefits

Pension scheme

30 days annual leave

Free medical and dental care

Childcare benefits

Flexible service arrangements

Qualifications

• Passion for cybersecurity and protecting digital environments.
• Willingness to learn programming languages such as Python or Java.
• Experience in network security, digital forensics, or penetration testing.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate systems and networks for security policy deviations.
• Utilize intrusion detection technologies to identify threats.
• Mimic adversarial tactics to assess security effectiveness.
• Deliver insights to stakeholders on the threat environment.

Skills

Cybersecurity passion

Programming or scripting languages

Network security knowledge

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Team collaboration

Education

Relevant certifications (e.g., CEH, OSCP)

Job description

Cyber Vulnerability Analyst – Cyber Direct Entry

JPAN: n/a
Grade: Mil OR4
Location: Multiple, including Southwest and Northwest England
Contract: Regular Military Commitment with bespoke TACOS
Security clearance: DV
Closing date: 28 Feb 2025

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

Evaluates systems and networks to identify deviations from security policies and measure defence effectiveness against known vulnerabilities. May also perform penetration testing to assess real-world exploitability.

Key Responsibilities

• Detect and Analyse Intrusions - Utilise intrusion detection technologies (e.g., Snort) to identify and analyse host and network-based intrusions, ensuring timely detection and response to potential threats.
• Simulate Threat Behaviours - Mimic adversarial tactics and behaviours to assess the robustness of security systems and designs, identifying vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
• Evaluate Security Effectiveness - Assess the robustness of security systems and configurations, ensuring compliance with organisational policies and identifying deviations that could lead to vulnerabilities.
• Provide Stakeholder Support - Deliver actionable insights and support to internal and external stakeholders, helping them understand the organisation’s threat environment and improve its risk management posture.
• Collaborate on Security Enhancements - Work with cybersecurity teams to develop and implement strategies that strengthen defences, leveraging findings from vulnerability assessments and intrusion analysis.

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• 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 a 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: [e-mail].