Cloud Security Expert - Freelance (Contract) - DV/eDV/UKIC Cleared

Location: United Kingdom, Hybrid
Position: Freelance/Contract, 12+ months
Clearance: Active DV, eDV, or UKIC required

About the Role

PRG is partnering with a Defence client to recruit an exceptional DV, eDV, or UKIC-cleared Cloud Security Expert for a freelance role within a critical cyber and digital transformation programme. You will lead the security of high-performance computing (HPC) environments and associated systems, leveraging Akamai Edge solutions (e.g., Kona Site Defender, Edge DNS, App & API Protector) to protect classified infrastructure. Using your expertise in compliance and cloud security, you will ensure alignment with their Digital Strategy, JSP 440/604, NCSC, ISO27001, and NIS2 standards to safeguard mission-critical operations. This is a pivotal opportunity to secure advanced defence systems and drive compliance for national security priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement security strategies for HPC environments and defence systems, integrating Akamai Edge solutions for DDoS mitigation, WAF, and API protection.
• Secure cloud-based HPC workloads (e.g., AWS Nitro Enclaves, Azure Confidential Computing) and related systems in classified/STRAP-level environments.
• Drive cyber security certifications (e.g., NCSC Cyber Essentials Plus, ISO27001, NIS2) to meet MOD compliance and operational requirements.
• Conduct risk assessments and audits for HPC and system infrastructure, implementing zero-trust models, encryption, and access controls.
• Collaborate with defence stakeholders, primes, and vendors to deliver secure, resilient HPC solutions.
• Configure and optimise Akamai Edge tools (e.g., EdgeWorkers, Bot Manager) to protect defence APIs and data flows.
• Provide technical briefings to senior defence stakeholders on HPC security and compliance.
• Leverage NCSC and UKIC intelligence to mitigate emerging cyber threats to HPC and defence systems.
• Mentor technical teams to embed secure practices in HPC and system operations.

What We are Looking For

• Active DV, eDV, or UKIC clearance (essential; must be current and verifiable).
• 8+ years in cyber security or HPC engineering, with 4+ years in defence, intelligence, or HMG environments.
• Proven experience securing HPC environments and defence systems in classified settings.
• Expertise in Akamai Edge solutions (e.g., Kona Site Defender, Edge DNS, EdgeWorkers) for DDoS, WAF, and API protection.
• Strong knowledge of Government frameworks (e.g., JSP 440/604, NCSC guidelines, HMG Security Policy Framework).
• Experience achieving cyber security certifications (e.g., NCSC, ISO27001, NIS2) to support compliance objectives.
• Proficiency in cloud security for HPC (e.g., AWS, Azure, GovCloud) and tools like Terraform, Kubernetes, or SIEM.
• Professional certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, AWS Certified Security Specialty, Akamai Edge Security Specialist, ISO27001 Lead Implementer) highly desirable.
• Strong technical and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience briefing senior defence leaders.
• Bachelor's degree in a technical field (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, or related; Master's preferred).
• Uncompromising integrity and discretion in handling classified and sensitive defence data and systems.

Why Join This Project?

• Lead HPC and system security for a critical defence client, driving national security excellence.
• Enjoy remote work with regular travel to secure defence sites.
• Contribute to high-impact defence projects with a lasting impact on UK security and capability.

Next Steps:

If interested, please send your most recent CV to:

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