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
49
Salary range
£55k – £140k
Hiring companies
28

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 – £140k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 38 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Senior
55
140
26 jobs
Lead
58
140
4 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 64 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Security Architecture
44%
AWS
39%
Azure
34%
Cloud Security
34%
Threat Modelling
28%
Risk Assessment
27%
NIST
17%
Compliance
17%
DevSecOps
16%
SABSA
16%
Zero Trust
16%
ISO 27001
16%
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

49 live roles

See all 49 roles

Product Security Architect

The Product Security Architect will work closely with product, development, and infrastructure teams to ensure security is integrated throughout the product lifecycle. Key responsibilities include threat modeling, secure design reviews, risk assessments, and improving secure development practices. The role also involves providing security leadership and guidance for customer implementations and contributing to security standards and certifications.

SRT Marine Systems PLC Bristol, Bristol (county), United Kingdom £75,000 – £110,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Network Security Architect

The role involves designing and improving network security architecture with a focus on large-scale network segmentation. You'll lead global technical projects, collaborate with vendors, and enforce security standards across a complex enterprise environment using technologies like Fortigate, Cisco, and Palo Alto. The position requires deep expertise in network protocols, security frameworks, and hands-on implementation of advanced security solutions.

Proactive Appointments Didcot, United Kingdom £70,000 – £75,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Cloud Security Architect (SC Cleared)

This senior role involves owning and governing security architecture across enterprise environments, providing strategic advisory for managed services and new deals, and ensuring alignment with security standards. The position requires strong expertise in SOC, SIEM, network security, and cloud security, with a focus on large-scale digital transformation programmes.

F5 Cardiff, Cymru / Wales, CF10 2AF, United Kingdom £75,000 – £90,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Flexible Clearance Required

Cyber Security Architect

This role involves designing and evolving security architecture across cloud, hybrid, and on-premise environments, embedding Secure by Design principles, and ensuring compliance with standards like ISO 27001, PCI DSS, and NCSC guidance. The architect will provide expert security input across the solution lifecycle, assess risks, influence stakeholders, and support incident response with an emphasis on innovation and digital transformation within a public sector organisation.

Yolk Recruitment Newport, United Kingdom £55,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

AI Security Architect

As an AI Security Architect, you will design and implement security frameworks, controls, and secure operating models for AI solutions in a health research organisation. Your responsibilities include conducting security assessments, developing governance frameworks, and supporting the implementation of security guardrails for AI, generative AI, and agent-based systems.

Additional Resources United Kingdom
Hybrid Contract Flexible

IT Security Architect - AWS - Manchester

This role involves leading the design and implementation of PCI DSS architectures, ensuring compliance with global security standards. You will work on secure enterprise-grade architectures across cloud, hybrid, and on-prem environments, conduct risk assessments, and develop security policies.

Circle Recruitment Manchester, United Kingdom £65,000 – £75,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Cyber Security Architect

The role involves leading the design and assurance of cybersecurity architectures for sensitive government and energy projects, focusing on cloud environments (AWS, Azure, Oracle). You will provide expert guidance on security best practices, conduct risk assessments, and ensure robust security controls are embedded in architectural designs.

Appcast Enterprise Farnborough, GU14 7JT, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Cyber Security Architect

The Cyber Security Architect will lead and deliver cyber security and risk assignments, working closely with senior stakeholders to develop tailored security roadmaps. Responsibilities include managing teams, providing expert advice, and contributing to information security policies and guidelines.

Methods Central London, W3 0BJ, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent 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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