IT - Security Analyst - Entry W-2 ONLY
This entry-level Security Analyst role involves monitoring and analyzing threat intelligence, conducting threat hunting, and performing log analysis to identify security incidents. The analyst will assist in incident response, vulnerability management, and security automation while collaborating with the team to improve organizational security posture. The position offers training to build foundational skills in IT security, network administration, and cloud security within a mid-size team environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, IT.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This entry-level Security Analyst role provides hands-on training and on-the-job development across core IT security functions. You'll work with senior analysts to detect, investigate, and help remediate security threats while improving detection coverage and documentation.
- Monitor and analyze threat intelligence feeds and OSINT to identify emerging threats.
- Conduct threat hunting and develop/test detection rules (SIEM queries, EDR/Defender rules).
- Review firewall, endpoint, and server logs to identify indicators of compromise (IOCs).
- Assist with initial incident triage and evidence collection following NIST/MITRE ATT&CK frameworks.
- Document incidents, produce after-action reports, and maintain security process documentation.
- Support vulnerability management efforts: analyze reports and assist with patch prioritization.
- Help build and deliver security awareness training and phishing simulations.
- Use SCCM, Group Policy (GPO), and PowerShell for patch deployment and automation tasks.
- Configure and analyze endpoint and network protection tools; support cloud security basics.
- Participate in digital forensics activities and support investigations as needed.
Minimum Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Basic understanding of computer and network concepts.
- Familiarity with security concepts and incident response principles.
- Eligible for W-2 employment in the U.S.; this role does not provide visa sponsorship or accept subcontractors.
Preferred Qualifications
- 1+ year in an IT security–focused role or 1+ years server/network administration experience.
- Experience with SIEM platforms and endpoint security tools.
- Experience with PowerShell, Group Policy, SCCM, or other endpoint management tools.
- Knowledge of vulnerability management and cloud security fundamentals.
- Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field (preferred).
- Certifications such as Security+ (CompTIA), Network+ (CompTIA), GSEC, or GCIH are a plus.
Skills & Attributes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Attention to detail and thorough documentation practices.
- Good communication skills; able to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Willingness to learn and follow established playbooks and security processes.
Compensation & Location
- Employment type: Full-time, W‑2
- Estimated pay (source): $120,884 per year (estimated)
- Primary location: Cayce, South Carolina (on-site or client-determined schedule)
Confidential Client & Hiring Notes
This position is posted on behalf of a Confidential Client. Careertakes will coordinate the initial screening and may share qualified candidate profiles with the Confidential Client for final selection. The Confidential Client will make all hiring decisions.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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