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Cyber intelligence officer

Alternative titles for this job include Cyber intelligence analyst

Cyber intelligence officers identify, analyse and prevent online threats to computer systems and digital networks.

Average salary (a year)

£32,000 Starter

to

£65,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

35 to 40

You could work

evenings / weekends occasionally

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • a graduate training scheme

University

You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in a subject like:

  • computer science
  • cyber security
  • mathematics
  • network engineering and security

You could take a postgraduate course in cyber security if your first degree is not in a related subject. You could also do this if you have a lot of experience in the IT industry.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:

  • Cyber Security Technologist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Digital Forensic Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Protective Security Adviser Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Cyber Security Technical Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
  • Advanced Digital Forensic Professional Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

  • a degree in a relevant subject

More Information

Work

You could start work with an IT security firm, for example as a cyber security technician, after doing GCSEs or A levels, then work your way up while studying for further qualifications on the job.

Other Routes

If you have a degree or relevant work experience, you could apply for the MI5 Intelligence and Data Analyst Development Programme.

The programme lasts just over 5 years, with postings in different departments of the service, and trains you in all aspects of cyber intelligence and data analysis.

Further information

You can find out more about working in cyber intelligence from the:

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • complex problem-solving skills
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • knowledge of digital communications
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • maths skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • persistence and determination
  • analytical thinking skills
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Restrictions and Requirements

For public sector work, you may need to go through UK Security Vetting.

For private sector work, you'll need to pass your employer's security checks.

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As a cyber intelligence officer, you could:

  • gather data and information and analyse it
  • identify attackers and their methods, using forensic tools
  • monitor new threats and assess their potential impact
  • test IT networks to identify weaknesses
  • maintain databases of cyber threats and hackers
  • produce risk assessment reports for managers and recommend actions
  • develop relationships with other organisations and share security knowledge
  • use technologies like AI to analyse threats and reinforce security measures

Working environment

You could work in an office or at a client's business.

Career path and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a cyber intelligence team lead, chief information security officer or head of a cyber security department.

You'll need to keep up to date with ever-changing digital technology, data analysis tools and hacking methods through professional development training.

You could also work as a freelance security contractor or consultant.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

2027 Cloud Assurance and Cyber Security Apprentice - Crawley

  • Wage: £24,000 a year Annually
  • Location: Crawley

Cyber Security Apprentice (Quantock Education Trust)

  • Wage: £15,392 a year Annually
  • Location: Durleigh Road, Bridgwater, Somerset
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

Diploma Cyber Security Engineer

  • Provider: LONDON SCHOOL OF COMMERCE & IT LIMITED
  • Start date: 18 January 2027
  • Location: London

Certificate in Cyber Security Practices

  • Provider: WALTHAM FOREST COLLEGE
  • Start date: Flexible
  • Location: WALTHAM FOREST
Find courses near you

Jobs In the United Kingdom

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Related careers

IT security co-ordinator

Intelligence analyst

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Forensic computer analyst

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