About the Role
This key role delivers cyber security activities that strengthen NPL’s security posture and manage security risk. You will assist with day‑to‑day operations of security information systems, preventing cyber attacks, monitoring incidents and responding to threats. The role supports both technical and governance activities to meet the organisation’s security objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Support the development and implementation of cyber security processes and procedures to strengthen protection and resilience.
* Evaluate risks associated with new technologies, suppliers and projects to support business delivery and third‑party risk management.
* Conduct vulnerability scans and assessments as part of vulnerability management; prioritise and collaborate with IT operations to remediate identified weaknesses.
* Monitor and respond to cyber security event alerts, investigating and escalating incidents as required.
* Contribute to assurance and compliance activities, including policy reviews, audits and regulatory checks.
* Support process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across cyber security people, process and technology.
* Assist with broader cyber security‑related IT requests, including travel security requirements, software requisitions and general queries.
* Prepare detailed reports on security incidents, vulnerabilities and trends to inform decision‑making and continuous improvement.
* Maintain security metrics and dashboards to measure performance and support reporting.
* Maintain and update action trackers, ensuring accurate status reporting and timely follow‑up on outstanding tasks.
* Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure alignment with security standards and best practices.
* Take reasonable duty of care for Health & Safety of yourself and others, following direct instructions regarding Health & Safety.
About You
Core Skills (Essential)
* Experience in IT, engineering or cyber security (typically 2‑3+ years) or equivalent practical experience in an operational environment.
* A curious and analytical mindset, with the ability to dig deeper to understand root causes, patterns and underlying risks.
* Strong analytical skills, including the ability to interpret security data, identify trends and draw meaningful conclusions.
* High attention to detail, accurately documenting activities, findings and outcomes.
* Understanding of cyber security risks, controls and operational security practices, and how these can be applied pragmatically to enable the business.
* Ability to balance security requirements with business needs, taking a proportionate, risk‑based approach.
* Experience working collaboratively with IT teams and wider stakeholders to enable secure delivery.
* Ability to follow defined processes while constructively contributing to their improvement.
* Clear written and verbal communication skills, explaining security issues in a business‑focused way.
* A delivery‑focused, pragmatic approach and willingness to learn and develop.
Additional Skills And Experience (Desirable)
* Exposure to working in or alongside a SOC or security operations function.
* Familiarity with tools such as SIEM, endpoint protection, vulnerability scanning or security monitoring platforms.
* Experience handling or supporting cyber security incidents.
* Experience supporting audits, assurance activities or compliance exercises.
* Experience assessing risk and documenting mitigating controls.
* Awareness of cyber security standards or frameworks (e.g. ISO 27001, NIST, Cyber Essentials).
* Experience producing security metrics, dashboards or management reporting.
Security Clearance Requirement
To work at NPL you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.
Equal Opportunity and Diversity Statement
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age. Women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates who satisfy the minimum criteria will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
Benefits and Working Environment
We are committed to the health and well‑being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work‑life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition.
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