At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cyber security initiatives in the rail sector and support cross-domain projects.
- Company: Join a global leader in transport cyber security with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday allowance, and community volunteering opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and mentorship in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in rail cyber security while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in rail cyber security and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly skilled Cyber Security Rail Lead to join our Global Transport practice. This role is pivotal in strengthening and expanding our cyber security capability within the global rail ecosystem, while also supporting cross-domain engagements in maritime, automotive, and aviation as needed. The ideal candidate will bring deep knowledge of operational technology (OT), rail systems, relevant international cyber security standards (including IEC 62443, TS 50701, IEC 63452), penetration testing methodologies, and the broader transport ecosystem. In addition to technical leadership, the individual will play a key role in supporting business development, building client trust, and elevating NCC Group’s profile within the rail sector. This is a client‑facing role requiring strong collaboration, communication and leadership skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Technical Leadership (Rail Cyber Security)
- Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for rail cyber security across global engagements.
- Lead, design, and deliver complex cyber security assessments across both operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) environments.
- Apply deep knowledge of rail‑specific standards and frameworks, including:
- IEC 62443 (Industrial Cyber Security)
- TS 50701 (Railway Cyber Security)
- IEC 63452 (Railway Rolling Stock Cyber Security)
- Conduct or oversee penetration testing activities, vulnerability assessments, architecture reviews, risk assessment and threat modelling for rail clients.
- Provide expert interpretation of cyber security requirements for railway operators, manufacturers, and integrators.
- Ensure security recommendations are aligned with safety, operational continuity, and regulatory requirements across the rail ecosystem.
- Rail Domain Expertise
- Provide expert understanding of the rail ecosystem, including:
- Signalling systems
- Rolling stock
- Control centres
- Wayside and trackside equipment
- Rail operational processes and safety requirements
- Translate complex rail operations knowledge into training and mentorship for internal teams.
- Act as the internal thought leader on emerging rail threats, vulnerabilities, and industry trends.
- Business Development & Practice Growth
- Support the creation and growth of new rail opportunities globally.
- Build NCC Group’s market presence in the rail sector through:
- Thought leadership (whitepapers, webinars, industry events)
- Client engagements and pre‑sales support
- Partnerships with key rail OEMs, operators, and regulators
- Collaborate with engagement managers and leadership to define rail‑focused service offerings.
- Contribute to bids, proposals, and technical scoping activities for prospective customers.
- Cross‑Domain Support (Multi‑Modal Transport)
- Potentially support projects across maritime, automotive, and aviation domains as required, with team backing.
- Maintain awareness of common OT and safety‑critical technologies across transport sectors.
- Promote knowledge‑sharing across the wider Transport Cyber Security practice.
- Teamwork, Collaboration & Mentorship
- Provide mentoring, guidance, and technical leadership to consultants at various levels.
- Work closely with colleagues across global teams to deliver integrated and high‑quality engagements.
- Promote a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive team culture.
- Client Engagement & Delivery Excellence
- Act as a trusted advisor to clients, providing clear, actionable cyber security recommendations.
- Communicate complex concepts in a clear, professional, and client‑friendly manner.
- Ensure high‑quality deliverables and maintain strong client satisfaction throughout engagements.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Technical Experience
- Proven experience in rail cyber security, ideally within operators, OEMs, integrators, or a cyber consultancy.
- Strong experience working with and applying:
- IEC 62443 (critical infrastructure cyber security)
- TS 50701 (railway cyber security framework)
- IEC 63452 (rolling stock cyber security)
- Strong understanding of OT systems and technologies, including SCADA, industrial control systems (ICS), and safety‑critical environments.
- Practical experience in penetration testing or security assessment methodologies (not necessarily a full‑time tester, but capable).
- Experience with secure architecture review, threat modelling, and risk assessment in industrial or transport environments.
- Domain Knowledge
- In‑depth understanding of the rail operational ecosystem, including signalling, rolling stock, safety systems, and regulatory standards.
- Direct experience working within or for rail operators, system suppliers, or rail‑integrated cyber projects.
- Soft Skills & Professional Attributes
- Excellent communication skills in both technical and non‑technical contexts.
- Strong client‑facing experience and relationship management skills.
- Ability to lead engagements and influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Willingness to work collaboratively across geographies and disciplines.
- Ability to teach and mentor others on rail systems and cyber security.
- Desirable (Not Mandatory)
- Recognised cyber certifications (e.g., CISSP, GICSP, ISA/IEC 62443 CyberSecurity Expert).
- Experience contributing to industry standards or regulatory consultations.
- Background in safety engineering or systems engineering in transport.
Benefits
- Flexible Working: Balance your work and personal life with our flexible working options.
- Generous Holiday Allowance: Enjoy 25 days of holiday, plus bank holidays, with the option to buy up to 5 additional days of annual leave.
- Medicash & Critical Illness Scheme
- Financial & Investment Benefits: Enjoy peace of mind with our Pension, Life Assurance, and Share Save Scheme.
- Community & Volunteering Programmes: Make a difference in your community with our volunteering opportunities.
- Green Car Scheme: Drive green and save money with our eco‑friendly car scheme.
- Cycle Scheme: Stay fit and healthy with our cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Special Time Off: Take time off for those big moments in life, like getting married/entering into a civil partnership, becoming a grandparent, and welcoming home a new pet.
- Family Planning: Benefit from our generous maternity and paternity leave, as well as time off and support for those undergoing fertility treatments.
Rail Cyber Security Lead employer: NCC Group plc
NCC Group plc is an exceptional employer located in Cheltenham, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, you will have access to flexible working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, and a comprehensive benefits package that prioritises your financial and wellness needs. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing cyber threat intelligence capabilities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rail Cyber Security Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the rail cyber security field. Attend industry events, webinars, and meetups to make those valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create a personal brand by sharing your knowledge on platforms like LinkedIn. Write articles or post about the latest trends in rail cyber security to get noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to rail cyber security. Be ready to discuss your experience with IEC standards and penetration testing methodologies to impress your interviewers.
✨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, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Rail Cyber Security Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Rail Cyber Security Lead role. Highlight your experience with rail systems, operational technology, and relevant cyber security standards. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about rail cyber security and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to the role.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t hold back on showcasing your technical expertise! Include details about your experience with penetration testing, risk assessments, and any relevant certifications. We love seeing candidates who are confident in their abilities.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at NCC Group plc
✨Know Your Cyber Security Standards
Make sure you brush up on the key international cyber security standards relevant to the rail sector, like IEC 62443 and TS 50701. Being able to discuss these frameworks confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them, but that you can apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Demonstrate Your Rail Domain Expertise
Prepare to talk about your understanding of the rail ecosystem, including signalling systems and operational processes. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've tackled challenges in this area, as it will highlight your expertise and make you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring and leading teams, be ready to share instances where you've successfully guided others or led projects. Highlight your ability to communicate complex concepts clearly, as this is crucial for client engagement and team collaboration.
✨Engage in Business Development Conversations
Think about how you can contribute to business growth in the rail sector. Prepare ideas on how to build client trust and market presence, and be ready to discuss any previous experience you have in supporting bids or proposals. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and strategic thinking.
