Cyber Security Analyst

Cyber Security Analyst – Manchester Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment, protecting critical IT infrastructure against the ever-evolving threat of cyberattacks? Are you eager to make a real difference in safeguarding digital systems, data, and processes? If so, we invite you to join our innovative and proactive team, committed to delivering the highest standards of cybersecurity. About the Role As a Cyber Security IT Analyst, you will take a central role in securing a complex and evolving digital landscape. You will utilize cutting-edge technologies to monitor, analyse, and respond to potential threats while proactively identifying and mitigating risks to ensure robust digital defences. This role demands a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and effective communication to protect sensitive information and systems. What You’ll Be Doing Monitoring and Incident Response: Use advanced tools, such as SIEM platforms, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems, to detect and respond to threats in real-time. Risk and Vulnerability Management: Conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments and coordinate external penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses. Incident Investigation: Lead forensic investigations into security breaches, analysing malware, logs, and network activity to uncover root causes and prevent future incidents. Policy Development: Create, refine, and implement cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures in alignment with best practices and industry regulations. Collaboration: Work closely with IT teams and stakeholders to design and implement security solutions, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and compliance standards. Education and Awareness: Deliver training and guidance to colleagues, fostering a culture of security awareness and resilience across the organization. Continuous Improvement: Stay ahead of the curve by researching emerging threats, tools, and technologies to strengthen defences and enhance the organization’s security posture. Who We’re Looking For We’re seeking an analytical thinker and problem solver with a strong understanding of cybersecurity technologies and practices. You’ll need the technical expertise to handle complex challenges, combined with the communication skills to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences. Essential Skills and Experience: Demonstrable experience in a cybersecurity role, particularly as a Security Analyst or Incident Responder. Proficiency with Microsoft security tools (Sentinel, Defender, Compliance Centre) and expertise in log analysis. Comprehensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Controls). Strong understanding of network protocols, including TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP(S), and SMTP, as well as threat actor techniques like phishing, port scanning, and web application attacks. Familiarity with tools and methods for malware analysis, intrusion detection, and endpoint protection. Desirable Certifications: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) Additional Requirements A valid UK driving license and access to a vehicle for occasional travel. Willingness to travel to various locations as required. This role requires a higher level of security vetting.