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Information Security Engineer

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An Information Security Engineer is responsible for protecting an organisation's computer systems and networks from cyber threats and attacks. This role involves designing and implementing security measures, monitoring for potential security breaches, and responding to incidents. Information Security Engineers often work with other IT professionals to ensure that networks, software, and data are safe from unauthorised access or damage. Typical tasks include conducting vulnerability assessments, installing firewalls, and developing security policies. It is a rapidly evolving field that requires staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and threats.

Information Security Engineer

📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for an Information Security Engineer in the UK ranges from £40,000 to £70,000 per year, with senior positions exceeding £90,000.

Job Growth

The demand for cyber security professionals, including Information Security Engineers, is expected to grow by 16 percent between 2020 and 2030 in the UK.

Number of Positions

There are over 15,000 job postings for security-related roles in the UK each year, with many employers seeking Information Security Engineers.

🚀 Careers in this path

Build Your Knowledge

Study Relevant Subjects

Focus on subjects such as Computer Science, Mathematics, or IT at GCSE and A-level.

Strong knowledge of computing, mathematics, and logical thinking is essential for a career in information security. Aim to achieve good grades in these subjects, as they will lay the foundation for advanced study and skills development. If your school offers computer science or cybersecurity clubs, get involved for extra experience.

Pursue Higher Education

Apply for a university degree in Computer Science, Cyber Security, or a related field.

Most employers look for candidates with a relevant degree. Look for courses that include modules on cyber security, network security, cryptography, and risk management. Some universities offer specific degrees or placements in information security, which can give you a head start.

Gain Security Certifications

Earn industry-recognised certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or Certified Ethical Hacker.

Certifications show employers that you have practical and up-to-date skills. Many can be studied for alongside university or early in your career. Research which ones are most valued for entry-level roles and consider working towards them as soon as you are able.

Get Practical Experience

Secure a Placement or Internship

Apply for work experience or internships in IT or cyber security roles while studying.

Internships and placements allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world environments, build your network, and gain valuable insights into the daily work of information security professionals. Many large companies offer summer placements or year-in-industry programmes to students.

Participate in Cyber Security Challenges

Join online competitions or events such as Cyber Discovery or Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges.

These events test your problem-solving skills and let you demonstrate your ability to identify and fix security issues. They are also a great way to meet like-minded people and impress future employers with your initiative and technical skills.

Start Your Career

Apply for Entry-Level Roles

Look for jobs such as Security Analyst, IT Support, or Junior Information Security Engineer.

Many security engineers start in related IT roles before specialising. Entry-level positions help you gain hands-on experience with monitoring systems, responding to incidents, and understanding security policies. Use your degree and certifications to stand out when applying.

Continue Learning and Progressing

Keep your skills up to date and work towards more senior positions such as Information Security Engineer or Security Architect.

Cyber security is a fast-moving field. Take advantage of professional development opportunities, attend conferences, and stay informed about new threats and technologies. As you gain experience, you can take on more responsibility and move into specialised or leadership roles.

Available Apprenticeships

Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.

Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.

IT Support Apprentice

HEYGATES LIMITED

( Added 29 Jul 2025 - 1 position available )

A fantastic opportunity has become available for an IT support trainee to join the team, reporting to the Head of IT. This new and challenging role will give the opportunity to work with a wide range of enterprise technologies and potential to travel to other sites in the UK. An exciting and varied role.

Closing date: in 1 month

Possible start date: 13 Dec 2025

IT Support Engineer Apprentice

BUBBLE IT SOLUTIONS LTD

( Added 12 Aug 2025 - 1 position available )

As an IT Support Engineer Apprentice at Bubble IT, you’ll be the first point of contact for customers needing technical help. You’ll gain hands-on experience resolving a range of IT issues and developing your knowledge across hardware, software, and network support.

Closing date: in 16 days

Possible start date: 10 Nov 2025

IT Apprentice

BV Dairy

( Added 27 Aug 2025 - 1 position available )

First line business support, onsite, resolving issues such as forgotten passwords, connection and printing issues, and general problem identification. Covering customer service, system maintenance, and security, preparing you for more complex technical support roles.

Closing date: in 13 days

Possible start date: 03 Nov 2025

IT Apprenticeship

S B K COMPUTERS LTD

( Added 05 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )

Join SBK Computers Ltd, a friendly and trusted IT company that’s been supporting businesses in Derbyshire and South Yorkshire since 1998. As an apprentice, you’ll get hands-on experience fixing hardware, installing software, first-line support, and more. You will be working with a supportive team that has helped numerous apprentices learn and grow.

Closing date: in 2 days

Possible start date: 21 Oct 2025

Data Processor Apprentice

FORESIGHT (NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE)

( Added 08 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )

Are you organised, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a difference behind the scenes? As a Data Processor, you’ll play a key role in keeping things running smoothly, from managing vital records to coordinating services that support the community every day.

Closing date: in 21 days

Possible start date: 22 Nov 2025

IT Consultant Apprentice

INTERM IT (UK) LIMITED

( Added 08 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )

This is an IT Level 3 Apprenticeship role - split 80/20 between employment with the employer, and remote learning - gaining qualifications with Solveway Apprenticeships! We are looking for motivated, hard-working people who are passionate about technology. Our apprenticeship programme is intended for candidates who are looking for a career in IT.

Closing date: in 10 days

Possible start date: 29 Oct 2025

AI Data Analyst Specialist Apprentice

ENVERA TELECOMMUNICATIONS LIMITED

( Added 10 Sep 2025 - 3 positions available )

You will work closely with AI developers and project managers to implement cutting-edge automation solutions, utilizing platforms such as OpenAI, ChatGPT, Claude, Botpress, Zapier, and other LLMs. Additionally, you will be responsible for managing and optimizing Envera’s internal AI-driven systems and automations.

Closing date: in 3 days

Possible start date: 28 Oct 2025

Career Progressions

This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.

Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.

Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.

These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!

Sample Qualifications

An Information Security Engineer primarily focuses on protecting an organisation's information systems and ensuring cybersecurity measures are in place, which aligns closely with the responsibilities of a Security manager. Both roles involve managing security protocols, assessing risks, and implementing safeguards to protect assets and data.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

Apprenticeship

You can do a security first line manager advanced apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

Most people following this route have:

  • experience in related work 

More Information

Work

You can start as a security officer and become a team supervisor. You can then move into security management through on-the-job training and promotion.

Direct Application

You can apply directly for security management jobs if you've got previous experience in the security industry. You'll also need a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence.

Skills gained through experience of managing a team in organisations like the armed forces, police or prison service may also be useful.

More Information

Registration

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the International Professional Security Association for training and development opportunities.

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