Cyber Security Analyst

JR United Kingdom; Winchcombe; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading intelligence agency as a Cyber Security Analyst, where you'll defend against cyber threats and work with advanced technologies. This role offers flexible working arrangements, a supportive environment, and numerous training opportunities. Ideal candidates will have a passion for IT and cybersecurity, along with essential skills in scripting and teamwork.

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)

Paid parental and adoption leave

Qualifications

• At least 6 months experience in a cybersecurity role.
• Foundational cybersecurity certification required.

Responsibilities

• Defend against cyber threats including malware and phishing.
• Collaborate with teams to analyze alerts and logs.
• Develop detection content and improve security measures.

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 (includes £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, working alongside MI5 and MI6 to protect against terrorism, cyber-attacks, and espionage. Join us for varied and impactful work in a supportive, inclusive environment emphasizing teamwork.

The Role

As a Cyber Security Analyst, you will work with a dedicated team to defend against cyber threats such as malware, insider threats, DoS attacks, and phishing. Your responsibilities include detecting, responding to, and mitigating risks, collaborating with technical teams, analyzing alerts, logs, network traffic, and endpoint data using tools like Splunk, and developing detection content. You will also leverage threat intelligence to proactively improve security measures and support digital forensics during security incidents.

About You

You should have a passion for IT and cybersecurity, experience with scripting, understanding of Windows and Linux OS, and familiarity with Python. Interest in developing skills in AWS and Azure is desirable. Candidates must hold a foundational cybersecurity certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+, GSEC) or have at least 6 months experience in a cybersecurity role. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential.

Training and Development

We offer in-house and external training, including industry-recognized certifications from SANS and OFFSEC. You will be paired with a mentor, gain hands-on experience, and have opportunities to attend conferences and stay updated on cybersecurity innovations.

Rewards and Benefits

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

We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled, and neurodivergent individuals. More details on our culture and inclusion initiatives are available on our website.

Disability Confident

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

Application Process

1. Application sift based on motivation and essential skills
2. Virtual competency and technical interview
3. Conditional job offer upon success

The process can take 6-9 months, including vetting; continue current employment until final offer.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must be British citizens or dual nationals, eligible for Developed Vetting (DV) clearance. A strict drugs policy applies. Consider setting up a separate email for applications. The role is based in Cheltenham; applicants should reside nearby as relocation costs are not covered. Applications from outside the UK are not accepted until visiting the UK.

Right to Withdraw

We may close the application earlier once sufficient applications are received. Submit early to avoid missing out.