SOC Analyst Level 1

Job Description:

Competitive Range partners with the government to plan and deploy complex, IT-enabled, and mission-essential capabilities. Our goal is to help you develop and expand your professional capabilities while working on challenging, exciting projects in a collaborative, congenial environment. 

We are seeking a SOC Analyst Level 1 to actively participate in security operations by proactively monitoring systems, investigating alerts, and providing near-real-time cybersecurity status and reports to support timely decision-making for DoD operations. This entry-level role is ideal for candidates eager to develop expertise in cyber threat analysis, incident response, and security operations center (SOC) procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively monitor cybersecurity events and provide near-real-time reports to enhance decision-making within DoD operations.
• Investigate, analyze, and escalate security alerts according to established protocols and contractual SLAs.
• Respond to SOC-generated alerts, supporting threat identification and risk mitigation strategies.
• Participate regularly in SOC working group sessions, contributing insights and expertise.
• Collaborate across organizational lines to ensure effective cybersecurity defense and threat response.
• Develop specialized knowledge in cybersecurity disciplines, technologies, and security frameworks.
• Assist in incident tracking, resolution, and reporting, ensuring adherence to DoD security compliance standards.
• Maintain awareness of the cyber threat landscape, identifying potential vulnerabilities and risks.

Required Qualifications:

• Active Secret Clearance: TS preferred. 

• Education:
  • Bachelor's degree OR equivalent experience.
• Experience:
  • 0-3 years of experience in cyber operations with a basic understanding of cybersecurity landscapes and common threat vectors.
• Skills:
  • Fundamental knowledge of network security, system vulnerabilities, and incident response strategies.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess and respond to cybersecurity threats.
  • Effective communication skills, including preparing cybersecurity reports and operational briefings.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with DoD security protocols, Risk Management Framework (RMF), and cybersecurity best practices.
• Experience using SOC tools such as SIEM platforms, IDS/IPS systems, and endpoint detection solutions.
• Certifications such as Security+, CEH, or other DoD-approved cybersecurity credentials.