Job Summary The SOC Level 1 Analyst is the critical first tier of our security operations. Operating within a dedicated 24x7 Security Operations Centre, you will be responsible for the front-line monitoring and analysing of security events to ensure our customers always remain protected.

Working under the guidance of senior analysts, you will triage alerts, identify potential vulnerabilities, and respond to security threats across diverse environments. This role is strictly part of a continuous 24x7 shift rotation (including days, nights, weekends, and bank holidays) to provide seamless, around-the-clock coverage.

Responsibilities

Security Monitoring & Triage

• Real-Time Vigilance: Monitor dashboards and security alert queues to identify potential threats and anomalies.

Incident Response Support

• Evidence Gathering: Support the incident response team by collecting forensic data and artefacts during active investigations.
• Reporting: Assist in the creation of post-incident documentation, ensuring all actions taken are recorded accurately.
• Workflow Mastery: Develop a deep understanding of incident response life cycles and operational workflows.

Shift Excellence & Collaboration

• Shift Handovers: Participate in comprehensive shift briefings to ensure the smooth transition of ongoing investigations and critical tasks.
• Team Synergy: Communicate findings clearly to the wider SOC team and contribute to knowledge-sharing sessions.
• Continuous Development: Stay current with the evolving threat landscape through training, industry research, and professional certifications.

Operational Requirements

• Shift Pattern: 24x7 rotating schedule (e.g., 12-hour shifts, 4-on/4-off rotation).
• Environment: A high-vigilance, real-time threat detection environment.
• Reliability: Exceptional dependability is required to maintain our constant "eyes-on-glass" security posture.
• Initial Analysis: Review log data and security events to distinguish between benign activity and genuine security incidents.
• Escalation: Accurately document findings and escalate validated threats to Level 2 and Level 3 Analysts via agreed communication channels.
• Threat Identification: Learn to recognise common Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) and follow standardised playbooks for initial containment.

Education and Qualifications

Preferred but not essential

• GCSE and A-levels (or equivalent) Degree or equivalent qualification in IT, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related discipline

Desirable

• Entry-level cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CompTIA A+, Google Cybersecurity Certificate)
• Participation in cybersecurity training programs or bootcamps

Knowledge & Experience

Candidate Profile

• No prior professional experience required
• Recent graduate or career changer with demonstrable interest in cybersecurity
• Apprenticeship, internship, or placement experience in IT or security (desirable)
• Personal projects, CTF participation, or home lab experience (beneficial)

Essential

• Basic understanding of networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP)
• Familiarity with Windows and/or Linux operating systems.
• Understanding of fundamental security concepts (confidentiality, integrity, availability)
• Basic understanding of networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP)
• Familiarity with Windows and/or Linux operating systems
• Understanding of fundamental security concepts (confidentiality, integrity, availability)

Desirable

• Awareness of common security threats (malware, phishing, ransomware)
• Interest in learning security tools (SIEM, EDR, firewalls)
• Understanding of basic security best practices
• Exposure to scripting or automation (Python, PowerShell) is a plus.
• Awareness of common security threats (malware, phishing, ransomware)
• Interest in learning security tools (SIEM, EDR, firewalls)
• Understanding of basic security best practices
• Exposure to scripting or automation (Python, PowerShell) is a plus.

Competencies and Skills

• Strong analytical and logical thinking abilities
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Enthusiasm for learning new technologies and concepts
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Willingness to ask questions and seek guidance
• Self-motivated with eagerness to develop professionally.
• Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Pay: £28,000.00-£35,000.00 per year

Benefits

• Bereavement leave
• Canteen
• Company pension
• Free parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On-site parking
• Paid volunteer time
• Sick pay
• Work from home

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Aylesbury HP19 8UW