Cyber Incident Responder

Please note:

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

Grade: Mil OR4

Location: Multiple, including Southwest and Northwest England

Contract: Regular Military Commitment with bespoke TACOS

Security clearance: DV

All offers of employment are subject to achieving UK security clearance. Applicants normally need at least five years of UK residency to gain this clearance.

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.

A Cyber Incident Responder is an on-site specialist responsible for triaging, containing, and coordinating security engineering and response efforts during cyber incidents. Proficient in a wide range of security controls, they collaborate with local domain specialists to implement effective security measures.

• Monitor and Analyse Cyber Threats
  :
  Continuously monitor network traffic and system activity to identify, analyse, and respond to potential cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and incidents using intrusion detection methodologies and tools.
• Incident Response and Mitigation
  :
  Lead the triage, containment, and resolution of cybersecurity incidents, ensuring timely and effective responses while adhering to established incident response methodologies and timelines.
• Risk Management and Compliance
  :
  Assess and mitigate cybersecurity risks by applying risk management processes, ensuring compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and organisational policies related to cybersecurity and privacy.
• System and Network Security
  :
  Implement and maintain security controls, including network access mechanisms, system hardening techniques, and data backup and recovery processes, to safeguard critical systems and data.
• Reporting and Documentation
  :
  Document and elevate incidents, prepare technical reports, and provide actionable recommendations to stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of findings and adherence to organisational cybersecurity protocols.

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, Power Shell)
• 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

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.

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

Aged 18 – 39 (You can start your application from 17 years old however you must be at least 18 years old on day…