Senior Cyber Security Analyst

JR United Kingdom; Bredon; Hybrid; GBP 44,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading intelligence agency in the UK is seeking a Senior Cyber Security Analyst to defend against cyber threats. The role involves investigating alerts, analyzing logs, and mentoring junior analysts. The agency offers flexible working arrangements, training opportunities, and a supportive environment focused on diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Employee recognition schemes

Interest-free season ticket loan

Excellent pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site facilities such as gym

Paid parental and adoption leave

Qualifications

• At least 6 months experience as a Cyber Security or SOC Analyst.
• Experience with host intrusion detection is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Investigate alerts and analyze logs and network traffic.
• Lead efforts to improve operational processes and mentor junior analysts.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Tools

Splunk

Job description

Job Title: Senior Cyber Security Analyst

Location: Cheltenham

Salary: £44,044 (includes £2,658 non-concessionary payment)

Working Arrangements: Flexible working options including full-time, part-time, compressed hours, and around 40% home working depending on business needs.

About Us

GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency dedicated to keeping the UK safe. We employ cutting-edge technology, ingenuity, and partnerships to identify, analyze, and disrupt threats. Working 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 Senior Cyber Security Analyst, you will be vital in defending our organization against cyber threats such as malware, insider threats, DDoS attacks, and phishing. Your daily tasks may include investigating alerts, analyzing logs, and network traffic using tools like Splunk. You will monitor security alarms, create detection content, utilize threat intelligence, respond to breaches, and participate in team meetings to review investigations and plan actions.

You will lead efforts to improve operational processes, mentor junior analysts, and provide expert guidance. Opportunities include diving into digital forensics and supporting security incidents, staying updated with the latest cybersecurity tools and techniques, and reviewing past alerts to prioritize incidents.

About You

You should have a background in cyber security analysis and a passion for IT. Experience with host intrusion detection is desirable, with training provided if needed. You must understand Windows and Linux operating systems and have at least 6 months of experience as a Cyber Security or SOC Analyst. As a leader, you should be comfortable working independently and collaboratively, working closely with IT and network teams, and possess strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Training and Development

We will support your growth through internal and external training, enabling you to develop across various cybersecurity specializations. We encourage pursuit of industry-recognized qualifications such as SANS and CISSP, and offer opportunities for travel, conferences, and innovation updates. Travel is infrequent and not mandatory.

Rewards and Benefits

• Starting salary of £44,044 plus benefits
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 after 5 years, plus public holidays
• Employee recognition schemes
• Interest-free season ticket loan
• Excellent pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site facilities such as gym, restaurant, coffee bars (at some locations)
• Paid parental and adoption leave

Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and inclusion, reflecting society in our workforce. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups such as women, ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and those from low socio-economic backgrounds. Learn more on our website: Diversity and Inclusion.

Disability Confident

GCHQ is a Disability Confident Leader, committed to fair recruitment and development of disabled applicants. To secure an interview, applicants must have at least 6 months’ experience as a Cyber Security/SOC Analyst, experience in malware analysis, intrusion detection, incident response, or line management/delegation. Support and reasonable adjustments are available during recruitment.

What to Expect

Our recruitment process includes application review, virtual interviews, and conditional offers, typically taking 6-9 months including vetting. Successful candidates must pass each stage.

Before You Apply

Applicants must be British citizens or hold dual British nationality, and undergo Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. Consider practicalities such as location, travel, and application security before applying. Applications from outside the UK should be made only when visiting the UK.

Right to Withdraw

We may close the application process early if sufficient applications are received. Please apply promptly to avoid missing out.