Cyber Security Analyst

JR United Kingdom; Forest of Dean; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading intelligence agency is seeking a Cyber Security Analyst to protect the UK from cyber threats. This role involves working closely with a team to detect and respond to security incidents, requiring strong analytical skills and a passion for cybersecurity. Candidates should have experience with scripting, knowledge of OS, and foundational certifications. The position offers flexible working options and opportunities for training and development in a supportive environment.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Employee recognition schemes

Interest-free season ticket loan

Excellent pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site gym and café

Paid parental and adoption leave

Qualifications

• Experience in a cybersecurity role or foundational certification required.
• Passion for IT and cybersecurity with strong problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Defend against cyber threats like malware and phishing.
• Analyze alerts, logs, and network traffic to mitigate risks.
• Develop detection content using tools like Splunk.

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 (including £2,658 non-concessionary payment)

Work Flexibility: Flexible working options available, including full-time, part-time, and compressed hours. Up to 20% home working may be possible depending on business needs.

About Us

GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber, and security agency dedicated to keeping the UK safe. We utilize cutting-edge technology, ingenuity, and partnerships to identify, analyze, and disrupt threats. Collaborating with MI5 and MI6, we protect the UK from terrorism, cyber-attacks, and espionage. Join us for varied and fascinating work in a supportive, inclusive environment emphasizing teamwork.

The Role

As a Cyber Security Analyst, you will work with a close-knit team to defend against cyber threats such as malware outbreaks, insider threats, DDoS attacks, and phishing. Your responsibilities include detecting, responding to, and mitigating risks, analyzing alerts, logs, network traffic, and endpoint data, and developing detection content using tools like Splunk. You will also leverage threat intelligence to enhance security measures and support digital forensics during security incidents. The role offers unique challenges due to the sensitive nature of our work.

About You

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

Training and Development

We support your growth through 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. Travel opportunities are available but not mandatory.

Rewards and Benefits

• Starting salary of £36,408 plus benefits
• 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 after 5 years, plus holidays
• Employee recognition schemes
• Interest-free season ticket loan
• Excellent pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site facilities such as gym and café (at some locations)
• Paid parental and adoption leave

Equal Opportunities

We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and neurodivergent persons. Learn more about our diversity initiatives on our website.

Disability Confident

We are a Leader within the DWP’s Disability Confident scheme, committed to fair recruitment practices. Candidates with relevant qualifications or experience will be considered fairly, with support available throughout the process.

Application Process

Our recruitment involves an application review, virtual interviews, and a security vetting process, which may take 6-9 months. We advise applicants to continue current employment until final offers are made.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must be UK citizens or hold dual British nationality and be eligible for Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. Considerations include residency, drug policies, and application procedures, including the need for a UK-based application and a separate email account for correspondence.

Note

Applications may close early if sufficient applications are received. Early submission is encouraged.