IT Systems Security Engineer – UK Biobank
Application Deadline: 2 November 2025
Department: Data & Technology
Location: Cheadle
Compensation: £55,000 – £65,000 per year
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior
Employment type: Full‑time
Overview
At UK Biobank we manage one of the world’s most significant health research resources and protect the data that supports that research. As we scale our systems, we are introducing new services and embracing modern cloud‑based technologies. IT Systems Security Engineer will strengthen our security architecture, identify vulnerabilities, and help keep us ahead of emerging threats. We value diversity and aim to create a welcoming, respectful, and engaging workplace for all employees.
Responsibilities
* Implement and manage security systems and services – endpoint protection, data loss prevention, intrusion detection & prevention, security posture management.
* Oversee deployment of security patches, firmware, drivers and updates.
* Undertake information security risk assessments and provide mitigations.
* Work with infrastructure and network specialists to employ technologies such as network segmentation, software‑defined networking, and security service edge solutions.
* Coordinate with the Security Operations Centre to assess and respond to alerts from the SIEM service.
* Respond to, investigate and aid the resolution of information and cybersecurity incidents.
* Collaborate with technical teams and third‑party partners to ensure system protection, user support, and prompt threat resolution.
* Contribute to the wider technology transformation program, embedding security into new systems from day one.
Qualifications
* At least 5 years operational experience as a security engineer or similar in a complex, multi‑site organisation.
* CompTIA Security+, SSCP, or equivalent qualification.
* Knowledge of security models, standards and controls – ISO, NIST, CIS, OWASP, CAF, NCSC.
* Clear understanding of data privacy, DPA and GDPR.
* Strong knowledge of the cyber threat landscape.
* Experience securing end users, operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux), databases, networks, cloud platforms, applications and software code.
* Experience with SIEM solutions (ideally Microsoft Sentinel).
* Knowledge of networking and Zero Trust Network Architectures.
* Experience in continuity planning, incident management and incident response.
* Preferred: CISM, CISSP or CCSP qualification; firewall administration; identity management; data classification; access control systems; cryptography.
Benefits
* 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service.
* Holiday buy scheme – purchase up to one extra week per year.
* Birthday leave – paid day off.
* USS pension scheme – hybrid defined benefit/defined contribution.
* Healthcare cash plan – claim back everyday health costs.
* Enhanced family leave – maternity, paternity, adoption from day one.
* Cycle to work scheme – save on bike purchase.
* Season ticket loan – interest‑free loan for commuting.
* Professional subscriptions – reimbursement where applicable.
* Learning budget – annual funds for courses and books.
* Free on‑site gym and subsidised canteen lunches.
* Free car parking on site.
* Employee discounts portal – savings across retail, travel, etc.
* Employee assistance programme – confidential support.
* Annual flu vaccination.
* Life assurance cover.
Working Hours & Location
35 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Hybrid working available. Initially based in Stockport, moving to Manchester Science Park by mid‑late 2026.
Applies to
Mid‑Senior level, full‑time information technology security engineering role.
Note: The application closing date may change; we recommend applying promptly.
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