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
57
Salary range
£35k – £95k
Hiring companies
38

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

£35k – £95k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 164 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
12% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
By seniority
£k base
Mid
32
77
81 jobs
Senior
50
106
45 jobs
Lead
62
125
7 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 178 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

SIEM
37%
Azure
23%
Vulnerability Management
22%
AWS
21%
Cloud Security
20%
Python
19%
Microsoft Defender
17%
PowerShell
16%
CCTV
16%
DevSecOps
15%
Microsoft 365
15%
Access Control
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

57 live roles

See all 57 roles

Security Engineer (CCTV, Access Control & Intruder Alarms)

This role involves installing, servicing, repairing, and maintaining IP CCTV, access control, and intruder alarm systems across multiple sites in the North West. You will work with a range of manufacturers, ensure high-quality work, and communicate effectively with customers and team members.

Get Staff North West England, United Kingdom £33,000 – £43,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Security Engineer (CCTV, Access Control & Intruder Alarms)

This role involves installing, servicing, repairing, and maintaining IP CCTV, access control, and intruder alarm systems across various sites in the South West. You will work on a range of brands, ensure high-quality work, and communicate effectively with customers and team members.

Get Staff South West England, United Kingdom £35,000 – £42,000 pa
On-site Permanent
Amazon logo

Application Security Engineer

This role involves conducting application security reviews, penetration testing, and developing security tools to safeguard Amazon's services and customer-facing applications. The engineer will also contribute to security training, documentation, and metrics, while collaborating with development teams to embed security best practices. Work spans proactive research, automation, and rapid response to emerging threats in a large-scale cloud environment.

Amazon London, United Kingdom
Permanent

Cyber Security Engineer

This role involves active monitoring, investigation, and response to cyber threats across endpoints, identity, email, and cloud services using tools like Microsoft Defender, Rapid7 SIEM, and Sophos. The engineer will triage incidents, perform root cause analysis, and improve detection rules and security posture. Collaboration with IT teams and contribution to security awareness and compliance initiatives are key aspects of the position.

Foresters Financial Br29Bf, United Kingdom £60,000 pa

Senior Security Engineer

As a Senior Security Engineer, you will lead the implementation and maintenance of security systems, conduct risk assessments, and manage various security gateways and protocols. You will mentor junior engineers, collaborate with the IT team, and ensure compliance with security standards, acting as a key technical leader in safeguarding sensitive data and systems.

Taylor James Resourcing London, United Kingdom £80,000 – £95,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Shift-work

Cyber Security Engineer

The Cyber Security Engineer will conduct vulnerability assessments, implement risk management processes, and manage identity access control and DLP controls. They will also respond to Tier 3 security incidents, monitor threat intelligence, and engineer Microsoft Sentinel detections and SOAR playbooks.

Robert Walters Birmingham, United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Cloud Security Engineer (AWS)

This role involves designing and building secure cloud infrastructures on AWS, conducting security assessments, and shaping the company’s security policies. You will monitor security incidents, implement disaster recovery procedures, and ensure data confidentiality and integrity.

DMS Computer Recruitment London, United Kingdom £65,000 – £90,000 pa
Remote

Cloud Security Engineer (AWS) - good salary + bonus

This role involves designing and building secure cloud infrastructures, conducting security assessments, and monitoring threats to ensure business continuity. You will work in a team focused on proactive security measures and shaping the company’s security policies.

DMS Computer Recruitment London, United Kingdom £65,000 – £90,000 pa
Remote
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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