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
90
Salary range
£28k – £140k
Hiring companies
40

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 102 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

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

What hiring managers ask for

% of 132 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

SIEM
35%
Azure
21%
AWS
20%
CCTV
18%
Access Control
17%
Python
17%
PowerShell
16%
GDPR
16%
DevSecOps
16%
Vulnerability Management
15%
Microsoft Defender
15%
Microsoft 365
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

90 live roles

See all 90 roles

Security Engineer

The Security Engineer will install, maintain, and optimise electronic security systems including CCTV, access control, and alarm systems across client sites. This hands-on role involves technical troubleshooting, interpreting schematics, and ensuring security infrastructure operates to high standards in a customer-facing environment.

R3vamp London, United Kingdom
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
Amazon logo

Security Engineer, SDO AppSec

This role involves conducting application security reviews, designing secure architectures, performing threat modeling, and automating security processes using AI. You'll work with internal teams to enhance security practices and contribute to a diverse, inclusive, and continuously learning environment.

Amazon London, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Amazon logo

Security Engineer, Amazon Application Security

At Amazon, security is central to maintaining customer trust and delivering delightful customer experiences. Our organization is responsible for creating and maintaining a high bar for security across all of Amazon’s products and services. We offer talented security professionals the...

Amazon London, United Kingdom
Permanent

Security Engineer - AVP

This role involves developing and maintaining security solutions to protect Barclays' systems and sensitive information. Responsibilities include implementing cryptographic protocols, managing secrets, conducting security audits, and collaborating with developers and security teams to align with business objectives and regulatory requirements.

Barclays United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Security Engineer - DevSecOps/Code Security

This role involves identifying vulnerabilities, improving developer security practices, and embedding security into modern engineering workflows. You will work closely with developers and engineering leadership to ensure secure coding practices and CI/CD pipeline integration.

Keystone Recruitment Partners Ltd United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa
Remote Permanent
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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