Cyber Security Analyst
Job description, Salary, Resume, and Interview Questions
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHAT DOES A Cyber Security Analyst DO?
Cyber Security Analysts play a critical role in protecting an organization’s IT systems and sensitive data by identifying, analyzing, and mitigating security threats. They work closely with IT and development teams to assess vulnerabilities, implement security measures, and ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data and networks. Cyber Security Analysts are responsible for monitoring security systems, conducting risk assessments, and responding to security incidents.
Successful Cyber Security Analysts possess strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of security protocols, and the ability to work with various cybersecurity tools and technologies. They excel at problem-solving, identifying potential threats, and communicating effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. These professionals are proactive, detail-oriented, and focused on maintaining a secure and compliant IT environment to support organizational safety and business continuity.
AVERAGE SALARY FOR
Cyber Security Analysts
Salaries can vary depending on factors such as geographical location, experience, educational background, and industry sector.
$103,316
Cyber Security Analyst Job Descriptions
Below are four types of Cyber Security Analyst job descriptions, detailing the range and expectations of the role:
Job Description: We are seeking a Network Security Analyst to protect our network infrastructure by identifying vulnerabilities, implementing security measures, and monitoring network traffic. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of network protocols, threat management, and security technologies to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of our network systems.
Responsibilities:
- Monitor network traffic for signs of suspicious activity or breaches.
- Configure and maintain network security devices such as firewalls, VPNs, and IDS/IPS systems.
- Implement and enforce security policies and procedures to ensure network security.
- Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing on the network.
- Respond to network security incidents and provide remediation.
- Collaborate with IT teams to improve network security posture.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Proven experience with network security tools and protocols (e.g., firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).
- Knowledge of network security concepts such as VPN, NAT, DNSSEC, etc.
- Experience with vulnerability assessment tools like Nessus or OpenVAS.
- Certifications like CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA Security, or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
Job Description: We are looking for a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst to identify, assess, and mitigate cyber threats through analysis of data from external and internal sources. The ideal candidate will be skilled in threat intelligence tools and methodologies, with the ability to track emerging threats and support proactive defense strategies.
Responsibilities:
- Collect and analyze cyber threat intelligence data from multiple sources.
- Assess emerging threats and provide actionable intelligence to the security team.
- Collaborate with internal teams to develop proactive defense strategies based on intelligence findings.
- Maintain and update threat intelligence platforms and databases.
- Communicate findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security, Information Technology, or a related field.
- Experience with threat intelligence tools and frameworks such as MISP or STIX.
- Familiarity with cyber threat intelligence lifecycle and frameworks like Diamond Model or MITRE ATT&CK.
- Experience in risk analysis and incident response.
- Certifications like Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA) or GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence (GCTI).
Job Description: We are seeking a Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst to monitor, detect, and respond to security threats in real-time. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with SIEM tools and incident response procedures to protect the organization’s infrastructure.
Responsibilities:
- Monitor security alerts and respond to potential incidents.
- Use SIEM tools to detect and investigate security breaches.
- Escalate and coordinate incident response activities across teams.
- Perform triage on security incidents and provide root cause analysis.
- Maintain detailed logs of security incidents for reporting and compliance.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security, Information Technology, or a related field.
- Experience working with SIEM platforms such as Splunk, ArcSight, or QRadar.
- Strong knowledge of incident response and cyber attack methodologies.
- Familiarity with common security vulnerabilities and mitigation techniques.
- Certifications like CompTIA Security+, Certified SOC Analyst (CSA), or GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC).
Job Description: We are seeking a Cloud Security Analyst to secure cloud environments and services against potential threats. The ideal candidate will be experienced in cloud security configurations, risk management, and incident response in cloud environments like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Responsibilities:
- Implement cloud security controls to protect infrastructure and data.
- Conduct risk assessments and vulnerability scans of cloud environments.
- Monitor cloud security platforms for suspicious activity.
- Develop and maintain security documentation for cloud systems and services.
- Collaborate with cloud architects to ensure secure cloud deployments.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security, Cloud Computing, or a related field.
- Experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
- Familiarity with cloud security frameworks such as CIS, NIST, or CSA.
- Hands-on experience with cloud security tools like Prisma Cloud or CloudGuard.
- Certifications like AWS Certified Security Specialty, Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer, or Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate.
Candidate Certifications to Look For
Consider the following certifications and qualifications when evaluating candidates:
This certification demonstrates expertise in software engineering principles, focusing on areas like design patterns, testing, and the software development lifecycle.
This certification validates skills in developing cloud applications and services on Microsoft Azure, covering topics like storage, security, and cloud solutions.
This certification highlights proficiency in Java programming, covering core concepts such as syntax, object-oriented principles, and data structures.
HOW TO HIRE A Cyber Security Analyst
Securing a skilled Cyber Security Analyst requires a strategic approach to identifying professionals with strong technical expertise and problem-solving skills. Here are key strategies to help you hire top talent:
Comprehensive Job Descriptions: Clearly articulate the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the role to attract candidates who meet the specific needs of your organization.
Cyber Security Analyst Competency Assessments: Use hands-on evaluations such as identifying and analyzing security vulnerabilities, conducting penetration tests, configuring security systems, and responding to simulated security incidents to assess candidates’ technical skills and their ability to protect networks and systems from cyber threats.
Focus on Detail Orientation: During interviews, ask questions designed to gauge candidates’ attention to detail and their approach to minimizing errors in their work.
Highlight Opportunities for Growth: Emphasize any potential for career advancement or skill development within the organization to attract candidates who are looking for long-term opportunities.
Leverage IT-Specific Platforms: Post job listings on platforms that specialize in IT roles, such as those focused on systems engineers, network administrators, and cloud specialists, to access a broader pool of qualified technical candidates.
Cyber Security Analyst Interview Questions
- How do you ensure accuracy when conducting vulnerability assessments, analyzing network traffic, or identifying potential security threats?
- Describe your experience with security tools and technologies like firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM, or VPNs. Which ones help you monitor and protect networks efficiently?
- What strategies do you use to manage competing priorities when handling tasks like incident response, monitoring security alerts, and performing security audits?
- Can you share an example of identifying and resolving a critical security breach or vulnerability that impacted the organization’s systems or data?
- How do you stay organized when managing security incidents, documenting threats, and ensuring compliance with security policies and regulations?
- Describe a challenging cybersecurity project you worked on. What was your role, and how did your contributions help strengthen the organization’s security posture?
- How do you ensure the security of sensitive data, especially when working with cloud services or across a distributed network?
- What’s the most complex aspect of cybersecurity, and how do you address it to ensure that systems remain secure while meeting functional business requirements?
- How do you approach quality assurance in your work, particularly when testing security systems, auditing access controls, or preparing for security audits?
- What steps do you take to stay updated on the latest cybersecurity trends, vulnerabilities, and industry best practices?
THREE EASY WAYS TO COMPLETE YOUR tech TEAM
CompuForce can assist you in finding the right Cyber Security Analyst for your team. Here are three ways to complete your tech team:
- Utilize CompuForce, a specialized tech staffing agency.
- Post your job on leading tech job boards.
- Leverage your professional network in the tech sector. CompuForce offers access to a network of pre-screened and qualified tech professionals.
NEED HELP HIRING A Cyber Security Analyst
Discover how CompuForce can elevate your hiring process with tailored staffing solutions. Contact us today to experience a partnership that transforms your recruitment strategy and connects you with top-tier talent.
