Lead Security Architect

Work on Technology That Protects What Matters
At SiXworks, we build secure digital solutions that support Defence and National Security missions. Our teams work on complex problems where reliability, security, and speed of innovation matter.
We’re looking for a Lead Security Architect who enjoys solving difficult technical challenges and wants their work to have real operational impact.
What You’ll Do
As a Lead Security Architect, you’ll carry out secure delivery of internal and MOD projects. This will require supporting technical agile teams in delivering Kubernetes environments for proof of concepts, internal SiXworks infrastructure and live services for our customers
Your work may include:
Risk Management within a Defence and Security Sector;
Security / Cyber architectures are proportionate to the GSC of the systems;
Security architectures are delivered in conjunction with other IT Architects and SMEs;
Apply security design specifics to develop the security architecture;
Strategic direction of Security projects;
Producing evidence to meet various MOD regulations;
Designing options and solutions to mitigate vulnerabilities;
Working with various teams across the business including Software Engineering, DevSecOps Engineering, Infrastructure Engineering, Agile and Cyber Security
Either holds or has recently held government security clearance already, or is suitable for and willing to go through the vetting process (suitability would include an absence of a serious criminal record, a right to work and live in UK and, preferably, a record of 5 years’ UK residency),
What We’re Looking For
We value people who take ownership, think critically, and enjoy working as part of a collaborative team tackling complex challenges. You don’t need to tick every box, but we’re particularly interested in people with skills/experience in:
Able to perform Risk management using industry approved methodologies (such as NIST 800-53). Identification of suitable risk management activities (technical, physical, or procedural) to treat /mitigate the identified risks;
Support development in a secure by design methodology;
Be able to work at a technical level with teams;
Identification / design / selection of appropriate security components to provide security enforcing functions (e.g. network, endpoints, cryptography, authentication, authorisation, data inspection etc) for a variety of infrastructures including cloud environments;
Legal and regulatory topics that merit consideration when conducting various activities in the field of cyber security;
Creation of security documentation to support the development of a system, these could include: security Aspects, Risk Assessment, Risk Management, Security Policies, Security Test Plans/Results, Evaluation documents;
Knowledge of JSP 604 / 453 and creation if assurance artefacts; and
High standards in written report and design documentation.
Knowledge and experience of Agile, DevSecOps, CI/CD principles and their application in secure environments
Appreciation of the constraints and requirements imposed on development within secure, safety critical environments
Concepts and technologies that are used to engineer systems which inherently protect systems;
Understanding of MOD and other departmental IT in defence and security
Experience of working with MOD Accreditors; and
Knowledge of Onsite / project tech stack includes but is not limited to Azure, AWS, Docker, Kubernetes, Apache (NiFi, Kafka), NodeJS, Typescript, MongoDB, AI, Machine Learning etc.
Just as important are curiosity, strong problem solving ability, and the motivation to continuously improve how technology is designed and delivered.
About SiXworks
SiXworks is a specialist digital innovation partner delivering secure, mission-critical technology to Defence and National Security organisations. We focus on digital experimentation, secure-by-design architecture, cloud technologies, and rapid application development to help our customers move faster and stay ahead of evolving challenges.
Our team combines expertise from across technology, business, and operational backgrounds including the armed forces creating a collaborative environment where practical thinking and innovation thrive.
Why Join Us
Our culture is guided by six principles: Agility, Security, Innovation, Quality, Collaboration and Inclusivity our North Star for how we work. SiXworks is a leading provider of secure digital solutions, specialising in digital experimentation and focused on fail-safe-fast cutting-edge technology solutions deployed in highly secure environments.
As an end-to-end digital innovation and delivery partner, we turn complex challenges into mission-critical digital advantages. This is a thrilling time for us, with ambitious plans for growth. We are looking for brilliant, experienced, driven and self-motivated people to join the team on our journey.
We offer competitive salaries and a package that supports your wellbeing and development, including 25 days annual leave + bank holidays, free Private Medical cover and Life Assurance, Generous pension (10% employer, 5% employee contribution), Bonus and Professional development and training support. In addition to secure parking, gym, café & restaurant on site and lots of open break out spaces.
A word on UK Security Clearance
Due to the secure nature of the position and working environment, you must have or be eligible to obtain Security Clearance. More details relating to UK Security Clearance can be found here:
United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Interested?
Please apply!

Employment type
Full-Time

Work arrangement
No