At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cyber security incident responses and develop recovery plans in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join FCDO Services, a vital player in safeguarding the UK’s interests globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and a Civil Service pension with excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive culture for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while advancing your cyber skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in cyber security and IT problem-solving; NVQ Level 4 or equivalent required.
The predicted salary is between 53085 - 64881 £ per year.
Reference number: 478468
Salary: £43,088 plus location allowance £1,750. A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%.
Contract type: Permanent
Working pattern: Full-time
Location: Hanslope Park, Hanslope, Milton Keynes MK19 7BH
Free shuttle bus available between central Milton Keynes and Hanslope Park.
At FCDO Services we protect the UK’s interests at home and overseas. We design and construct secure government buildings and courier diplomatic packages worldwide, safeguard government tech and a whole lot more. Our work is as varied and vital as it gets, but we never lose sight of our people. Their skills, aspirations and growth mean as much as the global mission we’re on. In our world, it all matters.
Our Technology and Operations team is at the forefront of digital solutions and services for FCDO and Government. They provide best in-class solutions for our clients, helping to shape and support a data driven future for UK government. Whether it’s creating bespoke, secure software, offering programme and application support or moving an entire embassy’s servers to a Cloud platform. No matter the task, they are on hand to support. Join them in this important role and you’ll have the opportunity to lead them on the next stage of our exciting journey.
As a Senior Cyber Responder within our supportive and tightly knit team, you will identify and analyse security incidents, develop recovery plans and forensic capabilities, and help provide a security consultancy service to our organisation and the customers we serve. This role offers the opportunity to further develop skills and expertise through on-the-job training, gain exposure to advanced incident response activities, and undertake digital forensics across a wide range of devices.
Responsibilities include:
- Using, developing and designing approaches and tools to investigate and recover from cyber security incidents affecting complex software systems and infrastructures across our network, including applications, servers and laptops.
- Conducting scheduled tests and checks to monitor compliance with incident response and recovery plans.
- Taking responsibility for the task management of an Associate Cyber Responder.
- Analysing security breaches and recommending solutions to reduce the likelihood of similar incidents occurring in the future.
- Communicating the potential business impact of vulnerabilities.
- Promoting security awareness across the organisation, sharing knowledge and expertise with colleagues, coaching other associates, and maintaining professional development in line with emerging technologies and industry best practice.
- Participating in the team’s 24/7 on-call service, supporting the investigation and remediation of security issues as they arise.
Confident, self-motivated and a collaborative team player, it’s important that you have practical experience of resolving complex technical IT problems and in cyber security. This may have come from other relevant roles such as SOC Analyst, Security Analyst, Security Engineer or in an IT role with strong exposure to security issues. Capable of using a variety of tools to manipulate and interpret data, and able to produce clear technical documentation, you should also have an NVQ Level 4 in Cyber Security or its equivalent experience (for example CompTIA Security+, SANS SEC401 or a Level 4 Apprenticeship).
With the confidence to work in a fast-paced environment, your excellent interpersonal and communication skills will allow you to liaise with a diverse range of stakeholders and take on important leadership tasks. You will be at an advantage if you’ve completed a management training programme, and an understanding of information risk assessment, risk management, threat assessment, compliance monitoring and controls testing would be desirable.
This is a role where there’ll be plenty of opportunities to develop your career, take on more responsibilities and progress within our organisation.
Please be aware that we can only accept applications for this role from British citizens with sole nationality; we cannot accept applications from dual or foreign nationals.
But we’re always looking to improve just like you. That’s why when you join us, expect to receive a competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement and a Civil Service Pension. Along with this, you’ll also have access to training and other development opportunities to help grow your career with us. Our offices have an on-site gym, nursery, café, and restaurant, and we offer interest-free loans on season tickets and bikes to help you get there. It’s a great set of benefits made to support all you do, and all you need.
Closing date: 20th September 2026.
We are looking for people with:
- Experience in cyber security
- Working experience in IT resolving technical problems
- Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team
- Able to manipulate and interpret data using a variety of tools
- Able to produce clear technical documentation
- NVQ Level 4 in Cyber Security or equivalent (e.g. CompTIA Security+, SANS SEC401, Level 4 Apprenticeship)
Behaviours:
- Developing Self and Others
- Communicating and Influencing
- Making Effective Decisions
Technical skills:
- Experience in cyber security
- Working experience in IT resolving technical problems
- Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team
- Able to manipulate and interpret data using a variety of tools
- NVQ Level 4 in Cyber Security or equivalent (e.g. CompTIA Security+, SANS SEC401, Level 4 Apprenticeship)
We only ask for evidence of these technical skills on your application form:
- Experience in cyber security
- Working experience in IT resolving technical problems
- Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team
- NVQ Level 4 in Cyber Security or equivalent (e.g. CompTIA Security+, SANS SEC401, Level 4 Apprenticeship)
Benefits:
- Alongside your salary of £43,088, FCDO Services contributes £12,482 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
- Learning and development tailored to your role
- An environment with flexible working options
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
- A Civil Service pension
- A leave allowance of 25 days per annum
- 9 days per annum public and privilege days
- Free Shuttle bus available between Central Milton Keynes and Hanslope Park
Closing date: Apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 20th September 2026.
Senior Cyber Responder in Cambridge employer: FCDO Services
As a Services Officer at Hanslope Park, Milton Keynes, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to supporting the UK's diplomatic efforts. The company offers a competitive salary package, generous pension contributions, and a strong commitment to employee development within a collaborative work culture that values public service. With opportunities for growth and a focus on meaningful work, this role is ideal for those seeking a rewarding career in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Cyber Responder in Cambridge
✨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 FCDO Services, 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 FCDO Services
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at FCDO Services. 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 Cyber Responder in Cambridge
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 FCDO Services 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 FCDO Services that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at FCDO Services
✨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 FCDO Services 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 FCDO Services.
✨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.
