Lead Security Engineer

Lead Security Engineer

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Leonardo UK Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead security initiatives to protect cutting-edge technology and ensure robust product designs.
  • Company: Join a leading tech firm dedicated to national security and global defence.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, generous leave, and access to 4,000+ online courses.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and professional development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on security while collaborating with top engineers.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in product security required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

We’re on the lookout for a Lead Security Engineer with a passion for protecting cutting‑edge technology and driving Secure by Design principles into the heart of our innovations and product. If you’re ready to make a tangible impact on national security and global defence, we want to hear from you.

Location: Basildon, Southampton, Luton or Bristol (on-site up to 4 days per week). Travel: Occasional travel to UK and overseas customers, suppliers and other Leonardo sites.

What You’ll Do

  • You’ll lead the way in ensuring our systems and products meet the highest standards of security assurance, collaborating with some of the brightest engineers in software, systems, and electronics.
  • Drive Security Assurance through the full product lifecycle, ensuring every design is robust, compliant, and resilient.
  • Develop and manage security protocols, tools, and processes that keep our technologies ahead of emerging threats.
  • Provide independent Information Assurance (IA) reviews and risk assessments on a variety of complex, high‑impact projects.
  • Contribute to Leonardo’s UK‑wide Security and IA community — shaping best practice and influencing security strategy.
  • Create and manage key artefacts such as Security Management Plans, Risk Assessments, and Remediation Action Plans.

What You’ll Bring

  • We’re looking for an experienced professional who thrives on solving complex problems and has a proven track record in managing product security for highly regulated systems.
  • Expertise in conducting risk assessments, applying security controls, and developing IA documentation.
  • Ability to interpret penetration test findings and create remediation action plans.
  • Awareness of UK Government Assurance frameworks.

Qualifications

  • Degree in Engineering (or related field).
  • Certification such as CISSP, CISM, or equivalent.

Knowledge / Experience

  • Substantive experience in product security.
  • Hands‑on experience with risk management frameworks and best practice like NIST SP800‑37, ISO27001, and Secure by Design.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, which could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Benefits

  • We offer a comprehensive, company‑funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work‑life balance.
  • Generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
  • Benefit from an award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
  • Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
  • Eligible for a bonus scheme at management level and below.
  • Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
  • Financial reward through a referral programme.
  • Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
  • Flexible hours with hybrid working options.

Primary Location: GB – Southampton. Contract type: Permanent. Hybrid Working: Hybrid.

Lead Security Engineer employer: Leonardo UK Ltd

At Leonardo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration among some of the brightest minds in the industry. Our comprehensive benefits package, including generous leave, an award-winning pension scheme, and access to extensive professional development resources, ensures that our employees thrive both personally and professionally. With opportunities for flexible working arrangements and a commitment to inclusion and diversity, joining us as a Lead Security Engineer means making a meaningful impact on national security while enjoying a rewarding career in a supportive environment.

Leonardo UK Ltd

Contact Details:

Leonardo UK Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Security Engineer

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend meetups, and connect with current employees at Leonardo. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in security assurance and risk management. When you get the chance to chat with recruiters or hiring managers, let your expertise shine through.

Tip Number 3

Be ready for the interview! Brush up on common security scenarios and be prepared to discuss how you’d tackle them. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action, so think of examples from your past work.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Leonardo.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Security Engineer

Security Assurance
Risk Management
Information Assurance (IA)
Penetration Testing
Security Protocols Development
ISO 27001
NIST SP800-37

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Lead Security Engineer role. Highlight your expertise in security assurance and risk management frameworks, as these are key to what we’re looking for.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for security and how you can drive Secure by Design principles. Let us know why you’re excited about making an impact on national security and global defence.

Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on specific projects where you’ve led security initiatives or conducted risk assessments. We want to see how you’ve tackled complex problems and contributed to security strategies.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo UK Ltd

Know Your Security Frameworks

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of risk management frameworks like NIST SP800‑37 and ISO27001. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past roles, as this will show your practical experience and understanding of security assurance.

Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect to dive deep into technical discussions about security protocols and risk assessments. Prepare examples from your previous work where you interpreted penetration test findings and created remediation action plans. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.

Show Your Passion for Secure by Design

Since the role emphasises driving Secure by Design principles, be prepared to share your thoughts on how to integrate security into product development. Discuss any innovative ideas or experiences you have that align with this philosophy to showcase your enthusiasm for the role.

Engage with the Interviewers

Don’t just answer questions; engage with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current security challenges and how they envision the Lead Security Engineer contributing to their goals. This shows your interest in the company and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.