Cyber Security Analyst

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

Job summary

A leading intelligence agency is seeking a Cyber Security Analyst to join their team in Cheltenham. This role involves protecting the organization from cyber threats, requiring collaboration with technical teams and the use of advanced tools. The ideal candidate will have a passion for IT, relevant cybersecurity certifications, and strong problem-solving skills. The agency values diversity and offers flexible working arrangements, along with extensive training and development opportunities.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Employee 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

Qualifications

• Experience in scripting and understanding of Windows and Linux OS.
• Candidates must hold a cybersecurity certification or have at least 6 months experience.

Responsibilities

• Detecting, responding to, and mitigating risks from cyber threats.
• Collaborating with technical teams and analyzing alerts and logs.

Skills

Scripting

Problem Solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Cybersecurity Certification

Tools

Splunk

Python

AWS

Microsoft Azure

Job description

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Job Description

Cyber Security Analyst

Location: Cheltenham

Salary: £36,408 (includes £2,658 non-concessionary payment)

Flexible working: We recognise the importance of a healthy work-life balance and offer full-time, part-time, and compressed hours. While hybrid working can be more restricted due to the nature of the work, around 20% home working may be available depending on business needs.

About Us

GCHQ is an intelligence, cyber and security agency with a mission to keep the UK safe. We use cutting-edge technology, ingenuity and partnerships to identify, analyse and disrupt threats. Working with our intelligence partners MI5 and MI6, we protect the UK from terrorism, cyber-attacks and espionage. At GCHQ you’ll do varied and fascinating work in a supportive and inclusive environment that emphasizes teamwork.

The Role

As a Cyber Security Analyst, you’ll work with a close-knit team to protect our organisation against various cyber threats. Your responsibilities include detecting, responding to, and mitigating risks from malware outbreaks, insider activity, denial-of-service attacks, and phishing. You’ll collaborate with technical teams, analyze alerts, logs, network traffic, and endpoint data using tools like Splunk, and develop detection content. You will also use threat intelligence to proactively improve our security posture and respond swiftly to incidents. Opportunities to explore Digital Forensics and support security incidents will be available. The role involves scenarios unique to our work environment, making it engaging and challenging.

About You

You should have a passion for IT and a desire to grow in cybersecurity, with experience in scripting, understanding of Windows and Linux OS, and familiarity with Python. Interest in AWS and Microsoft Azure is also desirable. Candidates must hold a cybersecurity certification or education at a foundation level (e.g., CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, OffSec, GSEC, GCIA, GCIH) or have at least 6 months experience in a cybersecurity role. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential.

Training and Development

We support your growth through in-house, on-the-job, and external training, including certifications with SANS Institute and OFFSEC. You’ll be paired with a mentor, gain hands-on experience, and have opportunities to attend conferences and stay updated on cybersecurity innovations. Travel is optional and infrequent.

Rewards and Benefits

You will receive a starting salary of £36,408 plus benefits such as:

• 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after 5 years, plus 10.5 days public holidays
• Employee recognition schemes
• Interest-free season ticket loan
• Excellent pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site facilities (gym, restaurant, coffee bars at some locations)
• Paid parental and adoption leave

Equal Opportunities

GCHQ values diversity and inclusion, reflecting society in our workforce. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, and those from low socio-economic backgrounds. More info is available on our website.

Disability Confident

We are a Leader within the DWP’s Disability Confident scheme, committed to supporting disabled applicants. Candidates meeting the minimum criteria will be offered an interview, with support available throughout the process.

What to Expect

The recruitment process includes:

1. Application sift
2. Virtual competency and technical interview
3. Conditional job offer upon success

The process may take 6-9 months, including vetting. We advise continuing current employment until final offers are received.

Before You Apply

Applicants must be British citizens or hold dual British nationality, and be eligible for Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance. Consider the implications of living outside the UK, as applications from overseas are not accepted. Ensure your contact details are secure and separate from personal identifiers. The role is based in Cheltenham; relocation costs are not covered. Please review eligibility criteria and the vetting process on our website.

Right to Withdraw

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