Security Architect

Certain Advantage; Newport; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Security Architect for a 6-month contract in Newport, South Wales. This role involves designing secure architectures for MOD systems while ensuring compliance with national security standards. Candidates must have a minimum of 6 years' experience in cyber security architecture and hold active SC Clearance. The position allows for 4 days onsite and Fridays remote.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years' experience in cyber security architecture within Defence or Critical National Infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of MOD security frameworks and security compliance.
• Experience producing security artefacts for MOD assurance.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop secure architectures for MOD platforms and systems.
• Align solutions with security frameworks and guidance.
• Produce Security Architecture documentation and Risk Assessments.

Skills

Cyber security architecture

MOD security frameworks

Secure by Design

Risk management frameworks

Excellent communication skills

Tools

NIST SP 800-53

ISO 27001

JSP 440

Job description

Security Architect

Newport, South Wales (4 days onsite / Fridays remote)

6 month contract (strong potential for extension)

Rate: Negotiable (DOE)

ACTIVE SC Clearance is required

About the Role

A major defence organisation is seeking a Security Architect (Cyber) to play a key role in shaping, developing, and maintaining secure system architectures across mission-critical MOD programmes. You'll ensure all solutions align with defence and national security standards, working closely with internal engineering teams, MOD stakeholders, and security authorities to uphold the highest standards of cyber assurance.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop secure architectures for MOD platforms, systems, and networks.
• Align solutions with frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53, ISO 27001, JSP 440, DEF STAN 05-138, and NCSC guidance.
• Produce and maintain documentation: Security Architecture Documents, Risk Assessments, and Security Management Plans.
• Lead and support design reviews and assurance gates.
• Liaise with MOD, NCSC, and Information Assurance teams to support accreditation and assurance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to embed security from concept through to delivery.
• Keep up to date with evolving threats and recommend effective mitigations.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Minimum 6 years' experience in cyber security architecture within Defence, Aerospace, or Critical National Infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of MOD security frameworks (JSP 440, JSP 604, DEF STANs).
• Proven background in Secure by Design and security compliance (ISO 27001, CE/CE+).
• Experience producing security artefacts for MOD assurance.
• Working knowledge of risk management frameworks (HMG IS1/IS2, NIST RMF).
• Excellent communication skills - confident engaging with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Must hold ACTIVE SC Clearance - applicants without current clearance cannot be considered.

Preferred Certifications

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)SABSA, TOGAF, or equivalent architecture certifications

If you are interested and keen to find out more, please apply with your updated CV and reach out to Tom Johnson at Certain Advantage - Ref: 79356