Information Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement savings contributions

Remote work flexibility

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Information Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst to monitor, detect, analyze, and respond to cybersecurity threats in real-time. The role supports Queenstown operations with remote work options and a focus on safeguarding critical infrastructure.

The ideal candidate has 1–3 years in an SOC role, familiarity with SIEM tools (Splunk, ELK), IDS/IPS, and networking basics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 1–3 years in a SOC or similar cybersecurity role.
• Familiarity with SIEM, IDS/IPS, firewalls, and antivirus solutions.
• Understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, and HTTP/S and operating systems (Windows/Linux).
• Knowledge of common cybersecurity threats and mitigation techniques; certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CySA+ are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Monitor security alerts and events from SIEM, IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoint protection systems.
• Analyze security incidents to determine scope, impact, and root cause.
• Respond to security alerts and incidents following established procedures and triage events.
• Investigate potential security breaches and policy violations.
• Contribute to SOC playbooks and incident response procedures; stay updated on threats and trends.
• Maintain logs of security activities and investigations; participate in knowledge-sharing sessions.

Skills

SIEM tools

IDS/IPS

Firewalls

Anti-malware

Networking basics

Windows/Linux

Analytical skills

Remote work awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity or related

Tools

Splunk

ELK Stack

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant regional infrastructure provider servicing the Queenstown, Eastern Cape area, is seeking a dedicated Information Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst to join their expanding IT security team. This role is vital for monitoring, detecting, analyzing, and responding to cybersecurity threats and incidents in real-time. The ideal candidate will be vigilant, possess strong analytical skills, and have a good understanding of common cyber threats and defense mechanisms. This position offers remote work flexibility, allowing for effective contribution to securing our client's critical operations in Queenstown from an off-site location.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor security alerts and events from various sources, including SIEM, IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoint protection systems.
• Analyze security incidents to determine their scope, impact, and root cause.
• Respond to security alerts and incidents in a timely and effective manner, following established procedures.
• Perform initial triage and escalation of security events to appropriate teams.
• Conduct investigations into potential security breaches and policy violations.
• Assist in the development and refinement of SOC playbooks and incident response procedures.
• Stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and trends.
• Contribute to threat intelligence gathering and analysis.
• Maintain accurate and detailed logs of all security activities and investigations.
• Participate in regular SOC team meetings and knowledge sharing sessions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 1-3 years of experience in a Security Operations Center (SOC) role or similar cybersecurity position.
• Familiarity with SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk, ELK Stack), IDS/IPS, firewalls, and antivirus/anti-malware solutions.
• Understanding of networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/S) and operating systems (Windows, Linux).
• Knowledge of common cybersecurity threats, attack vectors, and mitigation techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with keen attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a shift-based environment if required, and perform effectively in a remote setting.
• Relevant certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CySA+ are advantageous.
• Proactive attitude and willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a supportive benefits package including medical aid and retirement savings contributions.
• This role provides the significant advantage of remote work flexibility, enhancing work-life balance.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including specialized cybersecurity training, are provided.
• Join a team committed to maintaining a secure environment for vital infrastructure in the Queenstown, Eastern Cape region.
• Your vigilance will directly contribute to protecting our client's assets and operations.