SOC Analyst Junior
The SOC Analyst Junior supports the security of DHMS program information systems by monitoring, detecting, and responding to cybersecurity incidents. This role involves analyzing security alerts, performing initial incident triage, assisting with security assessments, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with cybersecurity policies and best practices. The position requires foundational cybersecurity knowledge, strong analytical and communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively in a 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.
Overview
Confidential Client is hiring a SOC Analyst (Junior) to join a Security Operations Center supporting IT systems and networks in Phoenix, AZ. This is an entry-to-early-career, full-time role focused on monitoring, triage, and initial incident response. The role requires a current Secret clearance and U.S. citizenship.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking a motivated junior SOC Analyst to help detect, investigate, and respond to cybersecurity events. Day-to-day responsibilities include:
- Monitor SIEM queues, firewall alerts, IDS/IPS messages, and endpoint security notifications for suspicious activity
- Triage incoming alerts to assess severity, affected assets, and potential impact; distinguish true incidents from false positives
- Review and correlate network, endpoint, and authentication logs to establish preliminary timelines and scope
- Follow incident response playbooks to perform authorized initial containment actions and escalate as needed
- Maintain accurate incident documentation, including indicators of compromise, investigative steps, and remediation status
- Assist senior analysts with security assessments, vulnerability documentation, and verification of mitigation measures
- Coordinate with IT, operations, compliance, and risk teams to communicate findings and track corrective actions
- Contribute to continuous improvement of detection rules, playbooks, and security process documentation
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related discipline — or equivalent practical experience
- 0–3 years of relevant cybersecurity or IT security experience (academic, internship, or supervised experience accepted)
- Foundational knowledge of cybersecurity concepts, common attack techniques, and indicators of compromise
- Practical ability to read and interpret logs from SIEMs, firewalls, endpoints, and authentication systems
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
- Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills; ability to document technical findings clearly
- Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize work in a fast-paced SOC environment
- Must have a current Secret clearance
- Must be a U.S. citizen
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on training or supervised experience with SIEM, firewall, IDS/IPS, or endpoint security tools
- Experience supporting incident documentation, mitigation verification, or security assessments in a regulated environment
- Familiarity with coordinating across IT, operations, compliance, and risk-management stakeholders
- Relevant certifications (e.g., Security+, CySA+, GCIA) are a plus
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $74,500 — $95,000 per year (role- and candidate-specific; final offer depends on experience, clearance level, and other factors)
- Confidential Client offers a benefits package that may include health insurance, retirement savings, paid time off, and other employee benefits (details provided during the hiring process)
Work Location & Type
- Location: Phoenix, AZ (on-site or as required by contract). This position is not remote.
- Employment type: Full-time
Physical & Other Requirements
- Typical office-based duties; may require occasional lifting of light equipment or limited travel
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities
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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