Junior Cyber security Jobs in the UK
Full-Time @Hays posted 5 months ago in Cybersecurity Shortlist Email JobJob Detail
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Job ID 13418
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Offered Salary 1000
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Career Level Others
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Experience 2 Years
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Gender Both
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Industry Technology & AI
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Qualifications Bachelors' Degree/Diploma
Job Description
Junior Cyber security Jobs in the UK
With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and widespread, the UK is investing heavily in its digital defences. This has led to a significant rise in demand for junior cybersecurity professionals across sectors like finance, healthcare, government, and tech. Whether you’re just out of university, switching careers, or upskilling from IT support, there has never been a better time to start a career in junior cybersecurity roles in the UK.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about getting started, from job types and salaries to skills, certifications, and where to apply.
Why Consider a Junior Cybersecurity Role?
- Fast-growing industry: Cybersecurity job vacancies in the UK rose by over 30% in 2024 (UK Cyber Security Council).
- High salaries: Junior cyber professionals earn between £30,000 and £45,000 annually.
- In-demand skills: Learn tools and techniques used to fight real-world cybercrime.
- Strong career progression: Step into roles like Penetration Tester, Cybersecurity Analyst, or Security Engineer within 2–3 years.
Common Junior Cyber security Jobs Titles in the UK
Here are some of the most popular entry-level and junior job titles in cybersecurity:
1. Junior Cybersecurity Analyst
- Salary: £30,000 – £42,000
- What you do: Monitor systems for threats, run vulnerability scans, assist with incident response.
- Tools to know: Splunk, Nessus, Wireshark, CrowdStrike.
2. Junior SOC Analyst (Security Operations Centre)
- Salary: £28,000 – £40,000
- What you do: Work in a real-time monitoring team responding to alerts and anomalies.
- Best for: Quick thinkers who enjoy puzzles and detective work.
3. Junior Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker Trainee)
- Salary: £32,000 – £45,000
- What you do: Assist senior pen testers in identifying security vulnerabilities in apps, networks, and devices.
- Certifications to aim for: OSCP (later), CompTIA Pentest+, CEH.
4. Cybersecurity Apprentice or Graduate Trainee
- Salary: £22,000 – £35,000
- What you do: Structured training with on-the-job experience across several cyber teams.
5. Junior GRC Analyst (Governance, Risk & Compliance)
- Salary: £30,000 – £40,000
- What you do: Ensure that organisations meet cybersecurity standards, audit controls, and manage risk assessments.
- Skills needed: Attention to detail, knowledge of ISO 27001, GDPR.
What Skills Are Employers Looking For?
Technical Skills
- Fundamentals of networking and TCP/IP
- Operating systems (Windows, Linux)
- Firewalls, antivirus, SIEM tools
- Basic scripting (Python, Bash, PowerShell)
- Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001
Soft Skills
- Critical thinking
- Attention to detail
- Communication and reporting
- Willingness to learn and adapt
Recommended Certifications for Junior Roles
You don’t need all of these, but having one or two can help your CV stand out:
- CompTIA Security+ – Ideal foundation for cyber roles
- (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) – Entry-level certification by the CISSP creators
- Microsoft SC-900 – Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals
- CompTIA Network+ – Great networking base
- TryHackMe or Hack The Box – Gamified labs to showcase hands-on skill
Where to Find Junior Cybersecurity Jobs in the UK
Best Job Boards: Junior Cyber security Jobs
- CyberSecurityJobsite.com
- Indeed UK
- Reed.co.uk
- CWJobs
- LinkedIn Jobs
Top UK Employers Hiring for Junior Roles:
- BT Security
- Darktrace
- BAE Systems
- Capgemini
- Amazon Web Services (UK)
- GCHQ / NCSC (Government)
- HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds – Financial services
- NHS Digital – Public sector cybersecurity
Hotspots for Cybersecurity Jobs:
- London – Finance, startups, government
- Manchester – Cyber hubs and consultancies
- Birmingham – Growing SME market
- Bristol – Aerospace, MOD, and defence
- Edinburgh & Glasgow – Finance and insurance
How to Stand Out in Your Job Application
- Tailor your CV to each job using keywords from the job description
- Highlight personal or lab projects (GitHub, TryHackMe, blogs)
- List certifications prominently
- Show enthusiasm—mention security blogs you read, CTFs you’ve tried, or communities you’re part of
- Prepare for both technical and behavioural interviews
Junior Cybersecurity Career Path (Typical Progression)
- Junior Analyst / Apprentice
- SOC Analyst / Cybersecurity Analyst
- Pen Tester / Security Engineer / GRC Specialist
- Cybersecurity Consultant / Manager / Architect
- Head of Cybersecurity / CISO
With continuous learning, many junior cyber professionals reach mid-level roles in 2–3 years.
FAQs: Junior Cyber security Jobs in the UK
Can I get a junior cybersecurity job without a degree?
Yes. Many roles value practical skills, certifications, and hands-on experience over academic qualifications.
How long does it take to break into cyber from scratch?
If you’re studying part-time or self-teaching, you could be ready for a junior job in 6–12 months.
Are remote junior cyber security jobs available for junior roles?
Yes, especially in hybrid formats. Some roles may require on-site work for compliance or mentorship reasons.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Cybersecurity Journey Today
Junior cyber security jobs in the UK are an ideal launchpad for anyone passionate about technology and security. With the right skills, certifications, and curiosity, you can land your first role and build a long-term, high-paying career in one of the most critical industries of our time.
Employers are looking not just for experience—but for potential. Show your passion, prove your skills, and get ready to make your mark in cybersecurity.
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