IT Security Specialist

Westport Properties Inc.; Newport Beach (CA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading company as an IT Security Specialist responsible for safeguarding information systems by identifying security threats and implementing measures. This dynamic role involves constant monitoring, risk assessment, and collaboration to maintain security compliance, within a hybrid working environment offering flexibility and generous benefits.

Benefits

Generous Paid Time Off - earn 3 weeks per year

10 paid holidays per year

$6,000 contributed annually toward Health Benefits

Paid ongoing Professional Development & Training

401(k) Plan with employer match

Company Sponsored Events throughout the Year

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in IT security or a related role.
• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, or CompTIA Security+ are highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of network protocols and security frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001).

Responsibilities

• Continuously monitor network traffic and system activity for potential security breaches.
• Develop, update, and enforce security policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Conduct security awareness training sessions for employees.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication

Attention to Detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field.

Tools

Security tools and technologies

Microsoft 365

Job description

Job Title: Information Technology Security Specialist

Reports To: Vice President of Information Technology

Direct Reports: None

Department: Information Technology

Location: Newport Beach, CA (1st month training: 5 days in-office. Hybrid 3 days in-office/week after training period.)

FLSA Status: Exempt/Salary

Position Status: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm with occasional overtime and/or weekends

Base Salary Range: $55,000 - $75,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

Travel: 15% may be required and/or dependent on business needs

Job Summary

Westport Properties continues to grow rapidly, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated IT Security Specialist to join our dynamic IT team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for protecting our organization's information systems by identifying and mitigating security threats. This role involves developing and implementing security measures, monitoring network activity, and ensuring compliance with security policies and regulations.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Security Monitoring and Incident Response: Continuously monitor network traffic and system activity for potential security breaches. Respond promptly to security incidents, conduct thorough investigations, and implement corrective actions.
• Risk Assessment and Management: Perform regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in our IT infrastructure. Develop and implement strategies to mitigate identified risks and enhance overall security posture.
• Security Policies and Procedures: Develop, update, and enforce security policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Security Awareness Training: Conduct security awareness training sessions for employees to educate them on best practices for maintaining information security and preventing cyber threats.
• Vulnerability Management: Regularly scan and assess systems for vulnerabilities. Apply patches and updates to mitigate security risks.
• Access Control: Manage user access controls and permissions to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive information.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other IT team members, departments, and external partners to ensure a cohesive approach to information security.

Education / Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in IT security or a related role.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, or CompTIA Security+ are highly desirable.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in security tools and technologies such as firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, antivirus software, and encryption techniques.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of network protocols, operating systems, and security frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001).
• Analytical Skills: Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to identify and address security threats effectively.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey complex security concepts to non- technical stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail and accuracy in all aspects of work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cloud security and securing cloud-based applications and services.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS
• Experience with security incident response and forensic analysis.

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Good organizational skills
• Ability to work within a team and to foster teamwork
• Proactive, self-starter, goal oriented and ability to work independently
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 products
• (If applicable) Ability to work flexible hours depending on various departmental project deadlines and/or Company events and sponsored programs (including a few late evenings and weekend events per year)
• General office and telephone skills are required
• Basic Computer Skills are required
• Must maintain and hold a valid State Driver’s License (if driving for Company business for the role)

Benefits for Full-Time Employees

• Generous Paid Time Off offered – earn 3 weeks per year at the start of your hire date
• 10 paid holidays per year
• $6,000 contributed annually toward Health Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision
• Paid ongoing Professional Development & Training
• Company Paid Life Insurance Coverage – up to $50,000 per employee (Basic Life & AD&D)
  • Basic Life & AD&D - 3x Annual Base Salary for Supervisory Level and Above
• 401(k) Plan with employer match
• Rewards & Recognition (Manager’s Quarterly & Yearly Outstanding Achievement Awards, Core Values Award, Years of Service & Wall of Fame)
• Company Sponsored Events throughout the Year (Holiday Parties & Gifts, Company Picnic, Team building, etc.)
• Huge Potential for Career Mentorship, Growth and Advancement
• Recognition of Hard Work and Exemplary Performance through numerous compensation practices
• Discretionary bonus based on several factors

About Westport Properties

Founded in 1985, Westport Properties (“WPI”) is an owner-operator of self storage, multifamily and industrial properties across the United States. The Company is a fully integrated operator that develops, acquires and manages its portfolio as well as providing third-party management services. As of March 2024, WPI has approximately 15.2 million square feet of self storage space under management and its total assets under management is approaching $3.2 billion with its US Storage Centers brand as well as over 650 multifamily units while employing over 600 people nationwide. WPI is a founding partner of the 501(c)3 Kure-It, a non-profit organization that raises money for underfunded cancer research, and Charity Storage, a 501(c)3 that uses vacant storage units to raise money for local charities. To date, Kure-It has raised over $15M and Charity Storage has raised over $1.2M.

At-Will Employment & Equal Opportunity Employer

Westport Properties, Inc. is a parent company of US Storage Centers (USSC) which provides at-will, equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, disability or genetics. Furthermore, Westport Properties, Inc. expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment and discrimination based on age, disability, color, genetics, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status in compliance with federal, state and applicable local laws governing employment and labor law in every location in which the company conducts business. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.