At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead incident response and manage cyber security risks to protect critical systems.
- Company: Join the DVLA, ensuring safe driving across the UK with a focus on digital security.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension contributions, flexible working, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Enjoy a culture of inclusion, continuous learning, and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of cyber defence, making a real impact in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of cyber security principles and incident response lifecycle.
The predicted salary is between 44241 - 58997 £ per year.
Location: Swansea (This role is suitable for hybrid working)
Salary: £44,241 - £58,997 (The base pay is £44,241. In addition to this the role attracts a Digital and Data allowance of up to £14,756)
A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
At DVLA, we’re responsible for keeping millions of drivers and vehicles moving safely across the UK. Behind the scenes, our digital and technology teams ensure that our systems are secure, resilient, and always available. We’re looking for a Senior Operational Security Specialist to play a key role in safeguarding our services—leading on incident response, vulnerability management, and operational security assurance. You’ll be at the heart of DVLA’s cyber defence, helping to detect, respond to, and prevent security threats. This is a hands‑on, fast‑paced role where you’ll work across teams to protect critical systems, assess risk, and continuously improve our security posture.
Top Responsibilities
- Manage complex information systems to understand and prioritise actions on Cyber Security risks.
- Recommend remediation strategies and provide advice on complex configuration changes in support of vulnerability remediation.
- Manage an organisation’s response policies and processes to meet the needs in line with appropriate standards.
- Plan, test, and respond to security incidents or concerns.
- Communicate the results of investigations and risk mitigation outcomes, guiding the organisation in the improvement and maintenance of a robust response to new threats and attack vectors.
- Provide specialist, tailored advice on mitigation, handling escalations with risk and service owners as appropriate.
About You
- Good understanding of cyber security principles, threats, and controls.
- Knowledge of incident response lifecycle (prepare, detect, respond, recover, learn).
- Familiarity with vulnerability management tools, scanning processes, or patching approaches.
- Understanding of risk management frameworks (e.g. ISO 27001, NIST, or similar).
- Ability to balance security, usability, and operational priorities.
- Strong collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Ability to influence decisions using evidence and risk‑based thinking.
- Confidence working in fast‑paced or high‑pressure environments, particularly during incidents.
- A proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Clear communication skills, including the ability to brief senior stakeholders.
Additional Information: The role is part of the Government Security Profession Career Framework and utilises an enhanced Capability–Based Pay Framework which provides access to a Digital and Data allowance. The value of allowance awarded will be based on an assessment of your skills and experience as demonstrated through the selection process.
Senior Operational Security Specialist in Swansea employer: Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture in Swansea that fosters professional growth and development. With a focus on innovation within our Centre of Digital Excellence, employees benefit from a comprehensive learning environment, generous benefits including a competitive salary and civil service pension, and the flexibility of hybrid working options, making it a rewarding place to build a career in cloud infrastructure.
Contact Details:
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Operational Security Specialist in Swansea
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
✨Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
✨Apply Directly Through Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Operational Security Specialist in Swansea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
