Security Engineer Jobs

Design and implement the systems that keep digital assets safe. A role that combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of security principles.

Open roles
103
Salary range
£28k – £140k
Hiring companies
30

Security Engineers are the guardians of an organisation's digital infrastructure. They design, build, and maintain the systems that protect against cyber threats, ensuring that data remains secure and systems operate smoothly. This role is critical in a world where cyber attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and frequent. Security Engineers work across various sectors, from financial institutions and government agencies to tech companies and healthcare providers.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Security Engineer

A typical week for a Security Engineer is a mix of proactive and reactive tasks, balancing the development of new security measures with the response to emerging threats.

  1. 01
    Conduct security assessments and vulnerability scans.
  2. 02
    Develop and implement security policies and procedures.
  3. 03
    Monitor systems for suspicious activity and respond to incidents.
  4. 04
    Collaborate with development teams to integrate security into software.
  5. 05
    Stay updated on the latest security trends and threats.
  6. 06
    Document security processes and compliance requirements.
Salary on the board

£28k – £140k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 119 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Mid
28
125
72 jobs
Senior
44
140
34 jobs
Lead
50
140
6 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 158 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

SIEM
35%
Azure
22%
Vulnerability Management
20%
AWS
19%
Cloud Security
18%
Python
18%
CCTV
17%
Microsoft Defender
16%
Access Control
16%
DevSecOps
16%
PowerShell
15%
GDPR
15%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

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

  1. Level 1

    Junior Security Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the implementation of security measures and learn the fundamentals of security engineering.

  2. Level 2

    Security Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific security projects and contribute to the development of security policies.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Security Engineer

    5–8 yrs

    Lead security initiatives, mentor junior team members, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Security Engineer

    8+ yrs

    Strategise and oversee the organisation's overall security posture, driving innovation and best practices.

Pathway

How to become a Security Engineer

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 computer science and network security principles.

  2. 2

    Obtain relevant certifications

    Pursue certifications such as CISSP, CEH, or OSCP to validate your skills and knowledge.

  3. 3

    Build practical experience

    Gain hands-on experience through internships, entry-level roles, or personal projects.

  4. 4

    Specialise in a security domain

    Focus on a specific area like penetration testing, incident response, or security architecture.

  5. 5

    Lead security projects

    Take on leadership roles, managing security initiatives and mentoring junior engineers.

  6. 6

    Advise on strategic security

    Provide strategic guidance on security policies and best practices at the organisational level.

Live jobs

103 live roles

See all 103 roles

Security Engineer

This role involves enhancing security controls across identity, cloud, and endpoint environments while supporting data protection and proactive threat detection. The engineer will conduct vulnerability management, threat hunting, and security reviews, contributing to risk assessments and the secure adoption of new technologies. Collaboration with both technical and non-technical teams ensures continuous improvement in the organisation's security maturity within a modern Microsoft-centric environment.

Amtis Professional Stoke Pound, Worcestershire, B60 3AX, United Kingdom £60,000 – £70,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Security Engineer

This role involves servicing and fault-finding intruder alarm and CCTV systems across commercial and residential sites within London (inside the M25). The engineer will work independently, diagnosing technical issues, carrying out repairs, and maintaining accurate job documentation while delivering a professional, customer-focused service. The position offers a structured career path within a stable, reputable security systems company.

FS Recruity Ltd Se10Aa, SE1 0AA, United Kingdom £38,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Security Engineer

This role involves leading cyber security strategy across both corporate IT and operational technology (OT) environments in a manufacturing organisation. You'll manage enterprise security platforms such as EDR, SIEM, NDR, firewalls, and email security, lead incident response, conduct vulnerability assessments, and ensure robust patching and identity management. The role also includes developing security awareness programmes, supporting disaster recovery, and maintaining compliance, all within a complex hybrid infrastructure spanning on-premises and cloud environments.

NET Recruit Chichester, United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Security Engineer

The Security Engineer will service and repair Intruder Alarms, CCTV, and Access Control Systems across residential and commercial sites in London and the M25 area. Responsibilities include fault-finding, responding to reactive calls, and participating in out-of-hours on-call work on a rotational basis.

Get Staff London, United Kingdom £36,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Security Engineer

This role involves securing critical satellite and telecommunications networks within the defence and national security sector. The engineer will lead security architecture, conduct vulnerability testing, and ensure compliance with security standards. Work includes incident response, policy development, and advising on secure network design.

Electus Recruitment Redhill, RH1 1RJ, United Kingdom £50,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Security Engineer

This role involves engineering, operating, and optimizing Microsoft Sentinel SIEM, ensuring platform health, log ingestion, and integration with security systems. The Security Engineer will collaborate with SOC Analysts, Threat Intelligence, and other teams to maintain high-quality security telemetry and support M&A onboarding.

eFinancialCareers London, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Security Engineer

This role involves servicing, maintaining, and installing CCTV, Access Control, and Alarm systems across secure sites in the North East. You will work on utility sites, gas/water plants, and other critical infrastructure, with opportunities for overtime, training, and career progression.

Rise Technical Recruitment Durham, DH1 3NG, United Kingdom £35,000 – £40,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Security Engineer

This role involves servicing, fault-finding, maintaining, installing, and commissioning electronic security systems across multiple client sites, including access control, CCTV, and perimeter intrusion detection systems. You will also respond to reactive call-outs and provide technical support to clients and internal teams.

Get Staff Belfast, United Kingdom £30,000 – £35,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required
Top hirers

Companies hiring security engineers

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FAQs

Common questions

  • Essential skills include a strong foundation in computer science, knowledge of security protocols, and proficiency in programming languages like Python and C++.

  • Certifications such as CISSP, CEH, and OSCP are highly valued and can significantly enhance your career prospects.

  • Security Engineers stay updated by following industry news, attending conferences, and participating in online forums and communities.

  • Security Engineers often work in office settings, but many roles offer remote or hybrid work options, depending on the organisation's policies.

  • Salary ranges can vary widely based on experience, location, and industry. For more detailed information, refer to the salary section on this page.

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