Systems Security Engineer

At UK Biobank, we manage one of the world’s most significant health research resources and protecting that data is a responsibility we take seriously.

As we scale our systems, introduce new services, and embrace modern cloud-based technologies, safeguarding our digital and physical assets remains a top priority. That’s where you come in.

This is a specialist opportunity to join our growing Data & Technology team and help reshape the way we approach information security. You’ll play a key role in strengthening our security architecture, identifying vulnerabilities, and ensuring we stay a step ahead of emerging threats.

Can you do it?

Reporting to the Head of Information Security, you’ll act as a subject matter expert, working closely with technical teams and third-party partners to ensure systems are protected, users are supported, and threats are swiftly addressed. You’ll also contribute to our wider technology transformation program, helping embed security into new systems from day one.

You will be responsible for:

• Implementing and managing a range of security systems and services, including for endpoint and end-user protection, data loss prevention, intrusion detection and prevention, and security posture management
• Overseeing the deployment of security patches, firmware, drivers, and general updates
• Undertaking information security risk assessments and providing mitigations
• Working with infrastructure and network specialists to employ technologies such as network segmentation, software-defined networking, and security service edge solutions 
• Working with a managed Security Operations Centre to assess and respond to alerts from the Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) service
• Responding to, investigating, and aiding in the resolution of information and cybersecurity incidents

You’ll work across teams and systems, proactively identifying risks and implementing practical, scalable protections to ensure our systems remain secure without creating unnecessary barriers for users.

Is this you?

To be successful, you will have:

• At least 5 years of operational experience working as a security engineer or similar role within a complex, multi-site organisation
• CompTIA Security+, SSCP, or equivalent qualification
• Knowledge of the security models, standards, practices, benchmarks, and controls advocated by bodies such as ISO, NIST, CIS, OWASP, CAF and NCSC
• A clear understanding of data privacy and associated regulatory compliance, particularly the DPA and GDPR
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the cyber threat landscape
• Knowledge and experience of the approaches and technologies used to secure end users, operating systems (Windows, Mac, and Linux), databases, networks, cloud platforms, applications, and software code
• Experience of SIEM solutions (ideally MS Sentinel)
• Knowledge of networking and Zero Trust Network Architectures
•  Experience of continuity planning, incident management, and incident response

While not essential, the following would be advantageous:

• CISM, CISSP, or CCSP qualification
• Experience with firewall administration
• Experience in working with identity management, data classification, and access control systems
• Knowledge of cryptography and secure communication protocols

Our commitment to inclusion, wellbeing, and professional development ensures UK Biobank is not just a great place to work but a place where you can make a difference.

The working pattern is Monday to Friday, with hybrid working arrangements based in Greater Manchester (initially Stockport, moving to Manchester Science Park in 2026).

Your Wellbeing Matters to Us

We’re proud to offer a benefits package that supports your health, financial security, and work-life balance - right from day one. Here’s what you can look forward to as part of our team:

•  🗓️ 26 Days’ Annual Leave – Plus Bank Holidays, increasing with length of service.
• ➕ Holiday Buy Scheme – Purchase up to one additional week of leave per year.
• 🎂 Birthday Leave – Enjoy a paid day off to celebrate your birthday.
• 🏦 USS Pension Scheme - Hybrid defined benefit/defined contribution pension plan.
• 🏥 Healthcare Cash Plan – Claim back costs for everyday health expenses.
• 👶 Enhanced Family Leave - Available from day one for maternity, paternity, and adoption.
• 🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme - Save on a new bike and accessories.
• 🚆 Season Ticket Loan - Interest-free loan to help with commuting costs.
• 📄 Professional Subscriptions - Reimbursement where applicable.
• 📚 Learning budget – Annual funds for courses, books, or anything else that fuels your personal and professional growth.
• 🏋️ Free On-Site Gym – Stay active with access to our gym facilities.
• 🍽️ Subsidised Canteen Lunches – Enjoy healthy meals at reduced prices.
• 🚗 Free Car Parking - On-site parking available for staff.
• 🛍️ Employee Discounts Portal - Access to savings across retail, travel, and more.
• 📞 Employee Assistance Programme – Confidential support for personal and work-related issues.
• 💉 Annual Flu Vaccination – Stay protected with free flu jabs.
• 🛡️ Life Assurance Cover – Financial protection for your loved ones.

The job advert closing date may change, so we recommend that if you are planning to apply, you do so without delay.