Security Architect (Contract)

This programme is modernising a highly secure digital environment that supports defence capabilities. The goal is to adopt secure-by-design principles, boost architectural resilience and keep up with the latest defence security standards and best practice.

We’re looking for a Security Architect with solid experience in defence or high-assurance environments to lead a secure-by-design review of a critical digital capability. You’ll assess the current setup, spot security and architectural gaps against modern standards, and map out the target architecture for redesign and future operation. The role needs deep technical credibility, good risk-assessment skills and the ability to work within formal governance and assurance frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct a comprehensive secure-by-design review of the baseline environment
• Assess alignment against current defence-aligned security standards and policy frameworks
• Identify control gaps, architectural weaknesses, and systemic risks
• Produce structured documentation including current state analysis, gap assessments, risk articulation, and target state architecture
• Define security principles, architectural patterns, and guardrails for the future platform
• Support assurance and governance processes by articulating risk, mitigation, and design rationale
• Work closely with engineering and programme teams to embed security requirements from inception

Candidates must hold high-level UK Government Security clearance and be eligible to obtain further clearance due to the nature of the role (DV).

• Proven experience as a Security Architect within defence, government, or high-assurance sectors
• Strong understanding of modern security standards, architectural controls, and risk-based design principles
• Experience conducting formal security assessments and architectural gap analysis
• Ability to produce structured, defensible security documentation suitable for governance and accreditation
• Strong stakeholder communication skills, including presentation to senior technical and assurance authorities

Desirable

• Experience supporting secure infrastructure modernisation or high-grade network environments
• Familiarity with defence security policy, structured risk assessment methodologies, and accreditation processes
• Knowledge of secure cloud, hybrid, or cross-domain architectures
• Location and Work pattern
• Remote work is possible but due to the nature of the programme, you can expect to be working on customer site in Stevenage on a regular basis.
• Travel within the UK is sometimes required and all expenses is reimbursed.

Ready to level up your expertise? Want to work in a collaborative, innovative team where your skills truly count? Join us - a group of passionate professionals who support each other, tackle challenges and celebrate wins together. If you’re after a role that blends technical know-how with real growth opportunities, we could be the perfect fit.