At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and implement secure architectures for sensitive programmes in a dynamic, agile environment.
- Company: Join a leading tech firm focused on innovative cybersecurity solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, private medical insurance, and 33 days of annual leave.
- Other info: Collaborate with a talented cyber team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by protecting vital data and systems while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in security architecture and relevant certifications are essential.
The role will support the delivery of secure, efficiently managed technical architectures for sensitive programmes. You will engage with third parties and customers, establishing and supporting ongoing growth. The position offers diversity in day-to-day activities and requires flexible operating parameters to support service in an agile environment, along with strong scheduling and prioritisation skills. The successful candidate will lead the design and assurance of secure architectures across multiple programme environments, most of which are in the cloud (AWS, Azure & Oracle), and offer expert guidance on security best practices. The ideal candidate will support the wider Leidos security capability, collaborating with a talented and multi‑faceted cyber team across our UK business, delivering on customer commitments, and seeking opportunities to embed security by design.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design, implementation, and assurance of cybersecurity architectures for the protection of programme data, systems, and networks.
- Provide expert guidance on security architecture and design patterns for cloud and hybrid environments.
- Conduct risk assessments, threat modelling, and develop mitigation strategies for new and existing solutions.
- Ensure that data and infrastructure are protected by embedding appropriate security controls into architectural designs.
- Produce and maintain architectural documentation, reporting, and communication with relevant stakeholders.
- Embed the existing Security Architecture Framework and associated assurance approach into delivery to maintain overall (build) assurance of system and service security.
- Lead the delivery and assurance of security requirements as part of new demands, ensuring requirements are captured, traced, and assured through design, delivery, and service transition.
- Support the customers in the development of Zero Trust Network Architecture (ZTNA) strategies, including a roadmap to achieve target‑state capabilities.
- Lead security design and security requirements for Microsoft Entra ID, supporting current and shaping the future IDAM strategy and roadmaps.
- Lead the Security Architecture Forums, driving decisions, actions, and architectural governance outcomes for customer programmes.
- Lead engagement with the broader architect community to embed security‑by‑design into IT Governance, Technical Design Authority (TDA) processes.
- Where required (e.g., changing threat landscape or regulatory requirements), lead the development and implementation of security policies and supporting standards to ensure systems stay secure and compliant.
Candidate Information
- Nationality: British (many projects have nationality restrictions).
- Security Clearance: SC cleared or eligible to undergo SC vetting.
- Base location: UK (must be able to hold SC Clearance or above).
We require a Senior Cyber Security Architect to support our customer projects within Civil & Devolved Government and Energy divisions in the UK. You must be based in the UK with the ability to hold SC Clearance or above, and you may need to apply for additional personnel security clearances. This role demands an individual who can join a high‑performing team and confidently design and assure robust security architectures for our customers, delivering high assurance with minimal friction. The focus is on simple, effective security that our customers value, with experience in a security architecture or senior security engineering role.
Required Experience
- Experience in a security architecture or senior security engineering role.
- Experience in a technical leadership or architecture‑focused position.
- Relevant security architecture certifications (e.g., SABSA, TOGAF, CISSP‑ISSAP, Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert, AWS Certified Security – Specialty, or similar) are an advantage.
Essential Process Skills / Experience
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills; works well in a team environment.
- Experience of the IT systems engineering and architecture lifecycle.
- Understanding of the controlling processes for the systems engineering lifecycle (e.g., requirements management, configuration management, testing and assurance) and where security architecture fits into these.
- Familiarity with different lifecycles/methodologies (waterfall, incremental, agile, DevOps).
- Solid understanding of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA) and practical experience in applying that understanding in architectural delivery.
- Experience designing secure solutions for sensitive environments.
- Understanding of service operations and security operational management planning.
- Awareness of Security Frameworks such as ISO 27001, ISO 27002, NIST, and NCSC Cloud Security Principles.
- Experience mentoring and acting in a team lead or senior role, supporting junior members of the team.
- Experience working on accredited security solutions in sensitive government or CNI scenarios.
Desirable Experience
- Experience working in both customer delivery and consulting environments.
- Experience in SecDevOps, infrastructure as code, or security as code.
- Experience working in CNI or Public Sector project environments.
- Working within an AGILE environment.
- Experience defining and implementing Zero Trust / ZTNA roadmaps and identity security patterns (e.g., Microsoft Entra ID governance and access controls).
Technology Skills / Experience
- Deep understanding of network and boundary protection technologies (firewalls, mail gateways, load balancers, anti‑virus, IPS, IDS).
- Evidence of experience architecting Cloud Security Controls on both Azure and AWS.
- Practical experience with Protective Monitoring systems (SIEM/SOC) and the principles of their deployment.
- Understanding of authentication and authorisation technologies (SAML, LDAP, PKI, etc.).
- Strong grasp of encryption protocols, structures, and their deployment in secure architectures.
- Experience defining and implementing security requirements for systems, including:
- Microsoft OS
- Linux OS
- Virtualisation technologies
- Networking
- Endpoint Security Products
Communication and Soft Skills
- Capable of developing and communicating a vision to meet system and security requirements.
- Ability to communicate complex technical ideas across a wide range of audiences.
- A proficient level of commercial awareness and project disciplines.
Benefits
- Contributory Pension Scheme
- Private Medical Insurance
- 33 days Annual Leave (including public and privilege holidays)
- Access to Flexible benefits (including life assurance, health schemes, gym memberships, annual buy and sell holidays and a cycle to work scheme)
- Access to Flexi‑time benefits
Cyber Security Architect in Farnborough employer: Leidos, Inc.
Leidos is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As a Cyber Security Architect, you will be part of a high-performing team dedicated to delivering secure architectures for critical government and energy projects in the UK. With a strong focus on employee growth, competitive benefits including a contributory pension scheme and private medical insurance, and a culture that values flexibility and work-life balance, Leidos provides a rewarding career path for those looking to make a meaningful impact in cybersecurity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cyber Security Architect in Farnborough
✨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 Leidos, Inc., 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 Leidos, Inc.
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at Leidos, Inc.. 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 Cyber Security Architect in Farnborough
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 Leidos, Inc. 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 Leidos, Inc. that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leidos, Inc.
✨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 Leidos, Inc. 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 Leidos, Inc..
✨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.
