Cyber security specialist

Salary: £57,528 - 64,750 per year Requirements: We require highly developed specialist knowledge and expertise acquired through a masters degree level qualification or equivalent experience, along with specialist knowledge gained through relevant practical experience and training/development. We require proven hands-on experience in cyber security operations, such as working as a Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, or in a similar technical cyber security role. We require demonstrable experience in incident response and security configuration, with the ability to analyse issues systematically, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions. We require strong technical knowledge of cyber security tooling and techniques, including vulnerability management, incident investigation, and monitoring tools such as SIEM, EDR, and vulnerability scanners. We require practical understanding of core cyber security concepts, including network, infrastructure, and system security across Windows and Linux environments, with awareness of networking, operating systems, and cloud platforms. A qualification or equivalent experience in one or more of the following is desirable: FEDIP Senior Practitioner, Cyber Security Professional (ACSP), BCS Certificate in Information Security Management Principles (CISMP), or SSCP Systems Security Certified Practitioner. Responsibilities: We act as a hands-on cyber security specialist, investigating security alerts, responding to incidents, and supporting day-to-day operational cyber resilience. We configure, manage, and maintain security tooling and infrastructure across on-premise and cloud environments, embedding secure by design principles. We carry out routine vulnerability assessments, threat analysis, and horizon scanning to identify and mitigate emerging risks. We serve as a technical escalation point for complex security issues, contributing expert analysis and practical solutions. We support compliance with recognised security standards and frameworks such as Cyber Essentials and ISO27001, maintaining clear and auditable records. We communicate complex technical risks and findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Technologies: Cloud Support Linux Network Security Windows More: We are the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the independent organisation responsible for providing national guidance and advice on promoting high-quality health, public health and social care. Our main purpose is to improve health and wellbeing by putting science and evidence at the heart of health and care decision-making, and we do this through a collaborative culture that empowers our workforce to do great things. This permanent Cyber Security Specialist (Operational) role is based in Manchester, with modern offices in Manchester city centre and Stratford, London, and we may require you to commute to either office for business purposes if needed. You will join our Infrastructure, Cyber & IT Operations team, helping protect nationally important digital services while supporting secure, resilient and reliable operations. We offer a generous NHS Pension, flexible working options including remote working, compressed hours and flexible start/finish times, a Blue Light Card discount scheme, 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, inclusive staff networks, and tailored learning and development opportunities. last updated 25 week of 2026