Cyber intelligence officer
Cyber intelligence officers gather information about where threats to information technology (IT) systems come from and how they work.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you may:
- identify common weaknesses in IT networks
- use digital resources to gather information and evidence
- use computer forensics to identify attackers and their methods
- analyse threats to major security systems
- monitor new threats and assess their impact
- keep databases of threats and hackers
- produce threat assessment reports and recommend actions
- develop relationships with other organisations and share security knowledge
- update your skills and knowledge
Working environment
You could work in an office or at a client's business.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a specialised cyber security lead and then head of cyber security.
You could also work as a freelance security contractor.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- complex problem-solving skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- telecommunications knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- persistence and determination
- maths 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. This includes:
- a counter terrorist check
- a security check (SC) - for access to information classified as 'secret'
- developed vetting (DV) - for access to information classified as 'top secret'
For private sector work, you may not need to be vetted unless you're working on government systems.
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a graduate training scheme
You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in one of the following subjects:
- computer science
- computer or cyber security
- mathematics
- network engineering and security
You could take a postgraduate course in computing or cyber security if your first degree is not in a related subject, or if you have a lot of industry experience.
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
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
- Cyber Security Technologist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Digital Forensic Technician 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
You could start work with an IT security firm, for example as a support technician after doing GCSEs or A levels, then work your way up while studying for further qualifications on the job.
If you have a degree or relevant work experience, you could apply for the MI5 Intelligence and Data Analyst Development Programme.
Further information
You can find out more about working in digital security from the:
If you are under 17 CyberFirst has a programme of activities including:
- apprenticeships
- bursaries
- competitions
- courses
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.