Cyber Security Detection Engineer

Please note: This scheme is not open to personnel who are currently serving full time within the UK Armed Forces.

Overview

Cyber Direct Entry offers an accelerated route into military cyber roles for individuals with proven cyber skills or aptitude. This programme strengthens the UK’s ability to respond to growing cyber threats. You’ll receive tailored training focused on essential skills for operating in cyberspace. Traditional medical and fitness standards are not our immediate concern, and waivers can be applied where appropriate. We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds. Cyber talent comes from every identity, and we know that a diverse workforce makes us stronger. The cyber sector includes many neurodivergent professionals, and we embrace neurodiversity. Different ways of thinking often lead to unique insights. Formal qualifications are not essential. If you can show your skills and passion for cyber, we want to hear from you. Successful applicants will be fast-tracked into operational cyber roles. The below role represents one of many opportunities that will be available to you throughout your career. Final confirmation of cyber roles and locations will be made on completion of your initial training; decisions will take into account your skills, preferences and the needs of Defence.

The Role

Designs, configures, and optimises monitoring systems and cybersecurity tools to improve detection accuracy and relevance. Ensures security data collection supports timely identification of threats across environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and Optimise Detection Systems - Develop, configure, and optimise monitoring systems and cybersecurity tools to enhance detection accuracy and relevance, ensuring timely identification of threats across diverse environments.
• Analyse and Respond to Threats - Use intrusion detection technologies and network traffic analysis tools (e.g., Snort, Wireshark) to identify and analyse anomalies, malicious activities, and vulnerabilities, providing actionable insights for incident response.
• Develop and Maintain Security Standards - Create, update, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and secure configuration management techniques (e.g., Security Technical Implementation Guides) to ensure compliance with organisational security policies.
• Collaborate and Communicate Effectively - Work with stakeholders and cybersecurity teams to manage and update detection rules, signatures, and configurations. Present technical findings and recommendations to both technical and non-technical audiences through clear and concise communication.
• Monitor and Improve System Performance - Continuously monitor system performance and availability, troubleshoot issues, and implement enhancements to ensure the resilience and dependability of cybersecurity infrastructure.

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a passion for cybersecurity and an interest in protecting digital environments, shown through qualifications or practical experience.
• Can use or is willing to learn programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, Java, PowerShell).
• Understands or has experience in areas like network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, or incident response.
• Brings strong analytical and problem-solving skills and can adapt to complex challenges.
• Works well in diverse teams and can explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences.

Preferred Qualifications

Professional certifications such as CEH, OSCP, or CompTIA Security+ are desirable, as is knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001) and incident response methodologies.

Security requirement

Candidates must achieve and maintain Developed Vetting (DV). Failure to do so may result in termination of employment.

Age

Aged 18 – 39 (You can start your application from 17 years old however you must be at least 18 years old on day of entry to basic training).

Nationality

Must be a citizen of the United Kingdom since birth (not naturalised) and must never have held any other nationality or citizenship (including joint nationality) with the exception of dual British Irish citizenship. Immediate family must be British citizens/nationals.

Training

• Fast-tracked basic military training will introduce you to the Armed Forces without some traditional military skills (e.g., weapon training).
• Bespoke professional training will provide foundational cyber skills for Defence and show how your work supports national security.
• Ongoing specialist training and mentoring, including industry courses (e.g., SANS), will be available throughout your role.

Salary & Benefits

• Base Salary: Starting at £42,782, with progression to over £60,000.
• Additional cyber-skills payments: From £6,270 per year for junior operators to £26,125 per year for highly experienced individuals.
• Pension: Automatic enrolment in the non-contributory Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 (opt-out available).
• Leave: 30 days annual leave plus eight UK bank holidays.
• Other benefits: Free medical and dental care, childcare benefits, enhanced parental leave, and flexible service arrangements.

Application process

• Application: submit a CV via the SERVE portal. Eligibility checks are completed, and applications are sifted for suitability.
• Interview: shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview covering technical skills, qualifications and suitability for military service (command, leadership and management experience).
• Medical Assessment: all candidates must pass a medical screening.
• Offer: successful candidates receive terms and conditions, and a job offer letter.