At a Glance
- Tasks: Design, deliver, and protect digital technology solutions in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join MBDA, a leading defence organisation committed to innovation and security.
- Benefits: Earn £23,000 plus a £3,000 joining bonus, with fully funded qualifications and healthcare support.
- Other info: Enjoy hands-on experience, flexible leave, and a supportive culture celebrating diversity.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in cyber security while making a real impact on national security.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at grade 4+, plus A levels or equivalent with a focus on Maths or Computing.
The predicted salary is between 33750 - 41250 £ per year.
Start your career in the digital world by designing, delivering, supporting, maintaining and protecting the digital technology and solutions for the MBDA ecosystem. We are evolving the way our products and services are designed and delivered to our customers, and we need you to help us!
Salary: £23,000 plus a £3000 joining bonus.
Duration: 4 years
Location: Stevenage
Learning provider: Cranfield MK:U
Due to the need to attend your MBDA site and the training provider as required for your apprenticeship, applicants need to ensure their home or rental location is appropriate, travel arrangements are manageable and travel time is minimised as required for your role.
The qualification: You'll complete a Digital and Technology Solutions apprenticeship with Cyber Security Analyst pathway. Your final award will be a BSc (Hons) in Digital and Technology Solutions.
Security clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by the MBDA Personnel Security Team.
This role is scheduled to close for applications at midnight on Friday 20th November 2026 but may close earlier depending on application volumes.
What we can offer you:
- Fully funded qualification starting September 2027
- Paid travel expenses to and from your place of study
- Annual pay reviews
- Healthcare Cash Plan: provides support with everyday health related costs – including medical, dental, optical, physio and health & wellbeing
- 25 days annual leave (plus holiday purchase) and up to 15 days flexi leave
- Study leave during exam periods
Programme structure - your work at MBDA:
The Digital Excellence Team are evolving the way our products and services are designed and delivered to our customers, and we need you to help us! Our solutions are developed and deployed in accordance with the international group business needs, our product partnership initiatives and the national security standards. We need individuals who want to develop their skills across the whole digital information systems and information technology enterprise as well as building a specialism in cyber security.
This programme is a fantastic opportunity for you to join a growing digital systems team and gain hands on experience within the information technology and information systems sector with a major defence contractor. It will give you experience of projects developing or enhancing business solutions as well an understanding of operational and service delivery.
We'll support those with the aptitude and passion for all things technology based and allow hands on experience within Infrastructure, AI, Cloud and Application environments.
Solution delivery at MBDA is typically a mix of ‘waterfall’ and ‘agile’ project methodologies meaning you’ll have the opportunity to compare and contrast different styles of solution development and begin to learn how to select the best approach to meet the requirements.
Typically you will be involved with and contribute to solution analysis and requirements elicitation; systems and solution design including liaising with technology and service providers; project/task management including release and test management.
Our operational teams cover everything from user engagement through to cyber security threat protection, detection and recovery. We use ITIL standards for our operational management and comply with standards such as the national government Cyber Security Essentials Plus scheme, ISO27001, and you will have the opportunity to develop an understanding of and begin to apply those in practise.
In this area you would be involved in the delivery of services for the enterprise covering applications, infrastructure and desktop ecosystem including performance monitoring and capacity management.
In addition to study and experience in each of our main digital domains and disciplines, you will follow the specialist path of Cyber Security Analyst. A Cyber Security Analyst leads in the work to define, implement and maintain security products and systems. They will need to analyse and understand the points of vulnerability within IT systems, monitor security performance using tools, undertake statistical reporting and analysis, proactively problem solve and propose improvements and implement changes. They will also collaborate across the international MBDA group.
During your first and second year, you'll experience all of the key areas of the Digital Excellence function: Enterprise Architecture and Consultancy; Digital solutions and Delivery Management; Cyber Security; Networking and Digital Infrastructure.
In the third and fourth year you will concentrate on your specialist path ultimately leading to the project chosen as part of your final assessment working with the relevant Digital Excellence team.
The academic portion of this apprenticeship consists of one virtual study day per week with the University. At the start and end of every module you'll be onsite at the university and this is typically 3 days at the beginning of the module and 3 at the end. The remainder of your working week you'll be working in the Digital Excellence function; depending on the placement you are completing this could mean you'll need to be onsite at MBDA for the remainder of the week.
What we’re looking for from you:
This role has specific qualification and subject criteria so please make sure you carefully check your eligibility against this criteria before applying otherwise your application will not be considered. If you are currently studying and expect to meet these requirements by the start date you are welcome to apply.
GCSEs: A minimum of 5 GCSEs at minimum grade 4. This must include:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Any Science or Technology subject
After GCSEs: Following your GCSE's you must have completed one of the following qualification routes, equivalent to a minimum of 120 UCAS Tariff points:
- A levels: Three A levels totalling 120 UCAS Tariff points, including A level Mathematics OR Computing/Computer Science, with no individual grade below C.
- T level: T Level in Engineering or Computing with a minimum Merit grade.
- BTEC: A single Level 3 Extended Diploma in Maths, Science, IT OR Engineering at a minimum grade of DDM. Those applying with Science, IT or Engineering subject must provide evidence of completing a Further Maths module.
Please note: We look at entry criteria based on your top three full A Levels or equivalent qualifications (BTEC/T Level). We do not include UCAS points gained from an Extended Project Qualification. Additionally, as an employer we set our own entry criteria based on the requirements of this role. This means that the criteria above may differ from the university.
Our company: Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given. MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom.
We are proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability and more. We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.
Advert end date: 21 November 2026
Cyber Security Analyst Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Stevenage employer: MBDA
MBDA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive benefits such as a generous bonus scheme, flexible working arrangements, and enhanced parental leave, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful projects that defend our freedom. Located in the UK, MBDA fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, empowering its workforce through various employee-led networks and opportunities for continuous development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cyber Security Analyst Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Stevenage
✨Get Involved in Local Cybersecurity Meetups
Join local cybersecurity meetups and workshops to connect with professionals and enthusiasts. These events are goldmines for networking and will help us understand what skills are hot right now. Plus, you never know who’s hiring or who can point you in the direction of an awesome apprenticeship!
✨Leverage Online Platforms and Forums
Dive into platforms like Reddit, Discord, or even specialised forums where cybersecurity pros hang out. Engaging in discussions not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to apprenticeship opportunities shared directly by industry insiders. Let’s make sure we’re in the right spaces to learn and connect!
✨Gain Practical Experience with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participating in Capture the Flag competitions is a fun way to flex your cybersecurity skills and gain real-world experience. Many companies actually scout talent at these events, so when we’re honing our problem-solving abilities, we’re also putting ourselves on the radar of potential employers. Don’t miss out!
✨Apply Directly Through MBDA’s Website
When you find a potential apprenticeship at MBDA, jump straight onto their website to apply. Tailor your application to show how your skills and interests align with their needs. Don’t just apply anywhere—let’s make our application to MBDA shine!
We think you need these skills to ace Cyber Security Analyst Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:In the cybersecurity field, your technical skills are paramount. Make sure to emphasise any relevant skills you have, such as knowledge of firewalls, network security, or experience with coding languages like Python. Listing any specific software or tools you've worked with can really catch the hiring manager's eye!
Show Off Your Certifications:If you've got any cybersecurity certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH, mention them prominently in your application. These qualifications not only prove your commitment to the field but also showcase your foundational knowledge, which is super valuable for an apprenticeship role at MBDA.
Express Your Eagerness to Learn:Since this is an apprenticeship, make sure to highlight your motivation and willingness to learn. In your cover letter, share your passion for cybersecurity and explain why you want to grow your skills with us at MBDA. This will show your potential as an apprentice and help you stand out!
Include Relevant Projects or Experiences:If you've participated in any relevant projects, whether at school or independently, be sure to include them! Talk about any practical experiences, like securing a network during a class project or attending cybersecurity workshops. This not only showcases your hands-on skills but also shows your proactive approach to learning.
How to prepare for a job interview at MBDA
✨Know Your Cyber Basics!
Familiarise yourself with the key concepts in cybersecurity, like vulnerability assessments and firewalls. They might throw some technical questions your way to gauge your understanding, so be ready to tackle those with confidence!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Since this is an apprenticeship, highlight any relevant projects or coursework you've done. If you've created a small network security project or contributed to an open-source initiative, bring it up! It's a great way to demonstrate your passion and practical skills.
✨Brush Up on Tools of the Trade
Make sure you're familiar with cybersecurity tools like Wireshark or Metasploit. Being able to discuss these tools and how you've used or would use them in real-world scenarios will show that you're not just about theory but can apply your knowledge hands-on.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
As an apprentice, your potential for growth is a huge factor. Be ready to share how you plan to develop your skills further and express a genuine enthusiasm for cybersecurity. They’re looking for someone who's keen to dive deeper into the field and make a contribution to MBDA.
