Platform & Cyber Security Specialist

Harrow Council; Greater London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Harrow Council is seeking an experienced Platform & Cyber Security Specialist to join its ICT Services team in a cloud-first environment. You will administer and secure core Microsoft platforms, including Hybrid Exchange, AD, Entra ID, Defender, and Sentinel, while driving automation through PowerShell.

The role focuses on strengthening cyber security posture, responding to threats, and supporting adoption of Microsoft cloud technologies with best practices.

Qualifications

• Experienced in administering and supporting Hybrid Exchange environments, including Exchange Online and on‑premises services.
• Strong knowledge of Active Directory management, including Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, domains, trusts, replication, and certificate services.
• Skilled in managing Microsoft Entra ID environments, including Conditional Access, MFA, SSPR, PIM, and identity lifecycle management.
• Experienced in using Microsoft 365 Defender and Sentinel to monitor, investigate, and respond to security threats and incidents.
• Proficient in PowerShell scripting and automation, with the ability to improve operational efficiency through streamlined processes.
• Familiar with Microsoft Intune and endpoint management for Windows, iOS, and Android devices, including device security and compliance policies.

Responsibilities

• Maintain secure, resilient Microsoft platforms within a cloud-first environment.
• Investigate security incidents and automate administrative tasks to improve efficiency.
• Collaborate with colleagues, suppliers, and stakeholders on security governance, compliance and service improvements.

Skills

Hybrid Exchange

Active Directory

Microsoft Entra ID

Microsoft 365 Defender

PowerShell scripting

Intune

Tools

Exchange Online

Active Directory

Microsoft Entra ID

Microsoft Defender

Sentinel

PowerShell

Intune

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Platform & Cyber Security Specialist to join Harrow Council's ICT Services team at an exciting time of digital transformation. Working within a modern cloud-first environment, the role is responsible for the administration, security, and continuous improvement of the Council's core Microsoft platforms, including Hybrid Exchange, Active Directory, Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft 365 Defender, Sentinel, and associated cyber security technologies.

As a key member of the IT Platform team, you will play a leading role in maintaining secure, resilient, and highly available technology services that support the delivery of critical council functions. You will be responsible for strengthening the Council's cyber security posture, investigating and responding to security threats, automating administrative processes through PowerShell, and supporting the ongoing adoption of Microsoft cloud technologies and security best practices.

The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues, suppliers, and stakeholders across the organisation, contributing to infrastructure modernisation projects, security initiatives, service improvements, and operational excellence, whilst ensuring compliance with security, governance, and regulatory requirements

About You

• Experienced in administering and supporting Hybrid Exchange environments, including Exchange Online and on-premises services.
• Strong knowledge of Active Directory management, including Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, domains, trusts, replication, and certificate services.
• Skilled in managing Microsoft Entra ID environments, including Conditional Access, MFA, SSPR, PIM, and identity lifecycle management.
• Experienced in using Microsoft 365 Defender and Sentinel to monitor, investigate, and respond to security threats and incidents.
• Proficient in PowerShell scripting and automation, with the ability to improve operational efficiency through streamlined processes.
• Familiar with Microsoft Intune and endpoint management for Windows, iOS, and Android devices, including device security and compliance policies.
• Good understanding of cyber security principles, identity and access management, and Microsoft security best practices.
• Knowledge of VPN technologies, SSL certificates, and core networking concepts, including DNS, DHCP, and Layer 3 networking.
• Experience working within ITIL-based service management processes, including incident, problem, and change management.
• A collaborative and customer-focused team player who can communicate effectively, manage priorities, and work successfully in a fast-paced environment.

Related Documents

For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/ Selection Criteria