At a Glance
- Tasks: Design secure digital solutions for critical national infrastructure and protect against cyber threats.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in energy transition and innovative technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and wellbeing perks like free online GP access.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive workplace that values diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on security while shaping the future of energy.
- Qualifications: Experience in security architecture and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 58100 - 87100 £ per year.
Base Location: You'll be expected to spend 50% of your working week in one of the following locations: Reading, Havant, Glasgow or Perth.
Salary: £58,100 - £87,100 + performance-related bonus and a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible First options available.
The role involves playing a key role in shaping secure digital solutions across a complex, critical national infrastructure environment. You will work at the intersection of business and technology, designing secure architectures that enable innovation while protecting the organisation from evolving cyber threats.
You Will:
- Define security requirements for projects based on business criticality, data sensitivity, and emerging threat landscapes.
- Design and recommend appropriate security controls aligned to enterprise standards, patterns, and regulatory requirements.
- Work with delivery teams to embed security across the full project lifecycle, ensuring solutions are secure by design.
- Act as a trusted advisor to business and IT stakeholders, clearly communicating risks and practical solutions.
- Contribute to the development and evolution of enterprise security architecture, standards, and strategy.
- Collaborate with enterprise architects, engineers, and third parties to ensure alignment with wider IT and security strategy.
- Support continuous improvement by identifying new technologies, risks, and opportunities to enhance security capability.
You have:
- Experience translating business requirements into secure solution designs across cloud, on-prem, or hybrid environments.
- Strong understanding of security architecture principles, risk management, and common threat landscapes.
- Experience working with recognised security frameworks and standards (e.g. ISO, NIST, NCSC CAF).
- Effective stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at multiple levels.
- A pragmatic, solution-focused mindset, with a focus on enabling the business securely.
About SSE:
SSE’s purpose is to provide energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. Our Transforming for Growth investment plan sees us investing £33bn in critical electricity infrastructure across the five years to 2030. Our IT division powers growth across all SSE business areas by making sure we have the systems, software and security needed to take the lead in a low carbon world. They provide expertise, advice and day-to-day support in emerging technologies, data and analytics, cyber security and more.
Flexible benefits to fit your life:
- Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships.
- Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service.
- Interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme.
- Generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
Work with an equal opportunity employer. SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. Please contact David.Brickell@sse.com / 01738 275 846 to discuss how we can support you. We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.
Security Solution Architect in Reading employer: SSE PLC
SSE is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and growth, offering a competitive salary alongside a performance-related bonus and a comprehensive benefits package tailored to support your finances and family. With a flexible working pattern and a commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, SSE empowers its employees to thrive while playing a pivotal role in shaping secure digital solutions for critical national infrastructure. Join us in our mission to build a better world of energy for tomorrow, where your contributions are valued and your professional development is supported.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Security Solution Architect in Reading
✨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 SSE PLC, 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 SSE PLC
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at SSE PLC. 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 Security Solution Architect in Reading
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 SSE PLC 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 SSE PLC that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE PLC
✨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 SSE PLC 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 SSE PLC.
✨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.
