Senior Systems Operations Engineer (Security)

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Job description
Full Time, Permanent
Based: City Hall, Bristol

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced System Operations Security Specialist to join our local government's Digital Services team. This role is critical in ensuring the security, resilience, and compliance of our IT infrastructure, supporting essential public services and safeguarding sensitive data.

You will play a key role in monitoring, maintaining, and enhancing the security posture of our systems, working collaboratively across departments to ensure best practices in cybersecurity and operational integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and manage security systems including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and endpoint protection.
• Conduct regular vulnerability assessments, system audits, and compliance checks in line with PSN, Cyber Essentials Plus, and other relevant standards.
• Respond to and investigate security incidents, coordinating with internal teams and external partners as needed.
• Maintain and improve security policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Support secure configuration, patch management, and system hardening across on-premise and cloud environments.
• Assist in the development and testing of disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
• Stay informed on emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and regulatory changes affecting local government IT.

Essential Criteria

• Proven experience in IT operations or cybersecurity, ideally within the public sector.
• Strong understanding of Windows andor Linux server environments.
• Familiarity with government security frameworks (e.g., NCSC guidance, ISO 27001, GDPR).
• Experience with security tools such as SIEM, vulnerability scanners, and endpoint protection platforms.
• Knowledge of networking, firewalls, VPNs, and secure remote access.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Experience

• Experience with Microsoft 365 and Azure security features.
• Scripting or automation experience (e.g., PowerShell, Python).
• Understanding of ITIL practices and public sector procurement processes.

What We Offer

• A supportive and inclusive working environment.
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and remote options.
• Generous annual leave and pension scheme.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact in your local community.

Please note that this role is subject to an Basic DBS Check.

Why Bristol City Council?

At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high-profile organisation. For the majority of our roles hybrid working arrangements are available, giving teams the opportunity to work in a way that suits them, balancing service need and individual choice - mixing both home and office working.

Join us and you'll receive an excellent rewards package including flexible working and flexitime, membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. In addition, you'll be working in a supportive environment where you'll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future.

How do I apply?

If you share our values and are ready to be part of our exciting journey please select the apply button below.

To be shortlisted for interview you'll need to demonstrate how you meet each of the essential criteria in the Person Specification within the Further Information section of your application. On occasion we will receive high numbers of applications, we may then shortlist against the desirable criteria along with the essential criteria, so if you can, please demonstrate how you meet this in your application.

It is Bristol City Council's practice to request references for candidates that have been offered a job. However, if you are applying for a job that requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check then we will request your references once you have been invited to an interview.

We're a Disability Confident employer which means we value recruiting and retaining disabled people. Any job applicants who consider themselves to be disabled and meet the essential criteria in the Person Specification are guaranteed an interview. We'll make reasonable adjustments throughout the interview process and provide continued workplace support throughout your career.

For further information, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification or alternatively, please contact Darren Tune darren.tune@bristol.gov.uk

Bristol City Council strives to have a workforce that reflects the communities it serves, we are therefore committed to ensuring diversity in our hiring process. We welcome, develop and promote people from all sections of the community. Appointments will be made on merit.

The personal information section (including your name) you'll complete as part of the application form will not be visible to hiring managers, but is used confidentially to make sure that everyone is treated fairly.