Cybersecurity & Data Security Junior Associate (Development Focus, UK Scope)

peopleworth; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking employer group is looking for a Cybersecurity & Data Security Junior Associate to join their team in the Western Cape. This role is ideal for early-career professionals aiming to gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity, data protection, and risk management. Candidates will work on real-world projects to improve organizational defenses against data risks and compliance breaches. The opportunity includes mentoring and the chance to develop a career in cybersecurity consulting.

Benefits

Collaborative environment focused on growth

Real-world exposure to cybersecurity challenges

Structured mentoring and development opportunities

Career pathway into cybersecurity consulting

Qualifications

• Exposure to international data-protection frameworks is advantageous.
• Genuine curiosity about emerging cyber threats.
• Eagerness to grow through applied project experience.

Responsibilities

• Participate in cybersecurity risk assessments.
• Contribute to information-security policies.
• Support internal audit activities related to data protection.
• Monitor and report on emerging threats.
• Assist with client training materials on cybersecurity.
• Research global cybersecurity standards and provide insights.

Skills

Foundational understanding of cybersecurity

Strong research skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Self-motivated

Education

Bachelor's degree or diploma in Cybersecurity or related field

Job description

Overview

At peopleworth, we support work where people and performance thrive. As part of our Employer Group, we work with a variety of forward-thinking partners and are excited to share this opportunity that sits within our growing group.

Role Overview This is a structured development fixed-term opportunity for an early-career professional eager to gain experience in cybersecurity, data protection, and risk management within a UK focussed context, while being based in the Western Cape. As a Cybersecurity & Data Security Junior Associate, you'll participate in real-world projects that strengthen organisations' defences against data risks, system vulnerabilities, and compliance breaches. The role blends guided learning with meaningful, independent contributions to advisory, audit, and awareness initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Participate in cybersecurity risk assessments and assist in documenting findings and recommendations
• Contribute to the development and review of information-security policies and compliance procedures
• Support internal audit and governance activities related to data protection and cyber-risk management
• Monitor and report on emerging threats such as phishing, spam, and data breaches
• Assist with preparing client and internal training materials on cybersecurity awareness and best practices
• Research global cybersecurity standards (ISO 27001, NIST, POPIA, GDPR) and help translate them into practical insights
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across time zones to deliver high-quality advisory outputs
• Take ownership of specific deliverables while engaging in continuous learning and skills development

Requirements

• Based in the Western Cape (around Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Strand or Paarl areas for occasional travel to group offices, while mainly working remotely)
• Foundational understanding of cybersecurity, data privacy, or risk management concepts
• Exposure to international data-protection frameworks (ISO 27001, NIST, POPIA, or GDPR) is advantageous
• Keen interest in advisory and policy work related to data protection and system security
• Strong research, analytical, and communication skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage tasks independently while contributing to team objectives
• Bachelor's degree, diploma, or ongoing studies in Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Data Management, Legal, Risk, or a related field
• Genuine curiosity about emerging cyber threats and an eagerness to grow through applied project experience

Benefits

• A people-centred, collaborative environment focused on growth and learning
• Real-world exposure to global cybersecurity and data-compliance challenges
• Structured mentoring and development opportunities without rigid supervision
• Scope to build your career into a professional cybersecurity consulting pathway

Our Recruitment Process

The peopleworth Employer Group follows a fair, transparent, and multi-stage recruitment process designed to ensure mutual fit.

• Application Submission: Complete the online form and answer brief application questions.
• Initial Screening: Your application is reviewed for role alignment; successful candidates move to the longlist.
• Video Interview Stage: You'll be invited to record short responses to 3-4 role-specific questions.
• Live Interviews: Shortlisted candidates join first-round interviews (and, where applicable, second or third rounds depending on the role).
• Final Shortlist & Verification: Reference and background checks are completed.
• Offer & Contracting: Successful candidates receive formal offers and contract documents.
• Pre-boarding & Onboarding: Once accepted, you'll complete a pre-boarding process before officially joining your employing organisation within the Employer Group