Security Architect Jobs

Design and implement the security frameworks that protect organisations from digital threats. A role that combines deep technical expertise with strategic thinking.

Open roles
23
Salary range
£55k – £110k
Hiring companies
17

Security Architects are the guardians of an organisation's digital assets. They design and implement comprehensive security frameworks to protect systems, networks, and data from a wide range of threats. Working closely with other security professionals, they ensure that security measures are robust, scalable, and aligned with business objectives. Security Architects are in high demand across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and government, where the stakes of a security breach are particularly high.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Security Architect

A typical week for a Security Architect is a mix of strategic planning, technical implementation, and collaboration with other teams.

  1. 01
    Conduct threat assessments and risk analyses.
  2. 02
    Design and document security architectures and policies.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with development teams to integrate security into the software development lifecycle.
  4. 04
    Monitor and respond to security incidents.
  5. 05
    Stay updated on the latest security trends and threats.
  6. 06
    Advise on compliance and regulatory requirements.
Salary on the board

£55k – £110k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 16 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Senior
70
110
8 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 7 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

AWS
86%
Cloud Security
71%
Threat Modelling
43%
Azure
43%
Security Architecture
29%
ISO27001
29%
Risk Assessment
29%
Security Assurance
29%
SIEM
29%
NCSC
29%
GDPR
29%
Secure by Design
14%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for security architects. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Security Architect

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and implementation of security solutions, focusing on learning and gaining hands-on experience.

  2. Level 2

    Security Architect

    3–5 yrs

    Lead the design and implementation of security architectures, ensuring they meet organisational needs and regulatory requirements.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Security Architect

    6–8 yrs

    Oversee multiple security projects, provide strategic direction, and mentor junior team members.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Security Architect

    9+ yrs

    Drive the overall security strategy, influence organisational policies, and lead a team of security professionals.

Pathway

How to become a Security Architect

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Gain foundational knowledge

    Start with a strong understanding of IT and security fundamentals, including networking, operating systems, and security protocols.

  2. 2

    Specialise in security

    Focus on security-specific areas such as cryptography, threat modelling, and security architecture design.

  3. 3

    Gain practical experience

    Work in roles that involve hands-on security tasks, such as security analyst or security engineer, to build practical skills.

  4. 4

    Advance to architect roles

    Transition into a Security Architect role, where you will design and implement security solutions at an organisational level.

  5. 5

    Lead and mentor

    Take on leadership responsibilities, guiding junior architects and influencing the overall security strategy.

  6. 6

    Influence at the executive level

    Become a trusted advisor to senior management, shaping the organisation's security vision and strategy.

Live jobs

23 live roles

See all 23 roles
Experis logo

Security Architect

The role involves designing and implementing secure solutions for complex customer environments, particularly in Defence and Government sectors. Responsibilities include security architecture, threat modelling, cloud security, and stakeholder engagement. The position offers a mix of home working and travel to customer sites.

Experis Bristol, Bristol (county), United Kingdom £75,000 – £85,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Security Architect

The Security Architect will lead the design and assurance of secure technology solutions for critical government and defence programmes. Responsibilities include threat modelling, risk assessments, and developing security standards, while working closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure security is embedded throughout the project lifecycle.

Meritus Andover, Hampshire, United Kingdom £800 – £900 pd
On-site Contract Clearance Required

Security Architect

The Security Architect role involves defining and governing enterprise-wide cyber security architecture, aligning it with business objectives and enterprise architecture principles. Key responsibilities include shaping security strategy, providing expert guidance on security and technology decisions, and leading design governance and risk assessments. The role is strategic, focusing on influencing design and setting direction rather than hands-on delivery.

CBSbutler Holdings Limited trading as CBSbutler London, United Kingdom £450 – £515 pd
Remote Contract Clearance Required

Security Architect

Security ArchitectSalary: £85,000 + BenefitsLocation: Bristol (Hybrid)This is a high-impact Security Architect role within a global defence technology organisation, offering the opportunity to shape secure architectures for mission-critical systems used in high-assurance environments. You will sit at the heart of...

SSR General & Management Kendleshire, Gloucestershire, BS36 1AT, United Kingdom £85,000 pa

Security Architect

Security ArchitectBased at client locations, working remotely, or based in our Godalming or Milton Keynes offices.Salary £80k, plus excellent company benefits.About UsTriad Group Plc is an award-winning digital, data, and solutions consultancy with over 35 years' experience primarily serving the...

Triad South Camberwell, London, United Kingdom £75,000 – £80,000 pa

Security Architect

Security Architect - Microsoft Contract - OUTSIDE IR35About the roleWe are seeking a Microsoft Security Subject Matter Expert with deep architectural expertise and hands‑on deployment experience across Microsoft's security ecosystem. This role will focus on designing, implementing, and optimising security...

Real United Kingdom £800 pd

Security Architect

This role involves designing and implementing security architectures for a government project, primarily working remotely but with occasional on-site meetings in Manchester. The Security Architect will focus on cloud security (AWS, Azure), stakeholder management, and clear communication of complex security concepts.

SmartSourcing Ltd Manchester, United Kingdom £540 pd
Hybrid Contract Clearance Required

Security Architect

This role involves designing and implementing security solutions for a Government project, primarily working remotely with occasional on-site meetings in London or Manchester. The Security Architect will focus on cloud security (AWS, Azure) and stakeholder management, requiring proven experience in the UK public sector and expertise in Terraform.

SmartSourcing Ltd London, United Kingdom £540 pa
Hybrid Contract Clearance Required
Top hirers

Companies hiring security architects

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FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in computer science or a related field is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as CISSP or CISM.

  • Key skills include a deep understanding of security principles, strong technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and excellent communication abilities.

  • Gain experience in security engineering, specialise in security architecture, and take on leadership roles to advance to a Security Architect position.

  • Salaries for Security Architects can vary widely based on experience and location. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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