Remote Network Security Analyst

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Remote Network Security Analyst to safeguard a nationwide South Africa network. The role focuses on monitoring, threat detection, incident response, and proactive security enhancements in a remote-first setting.

The ideal candidate brings 4+ years in network security, hands-on experience with SIEM tools, vulnerability assessment, and strong communication skills to support a distributed security team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, CS, IT or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum 4 years in network security analysis, incident response, or cybersecurity operations.
• Strong knowledge of firewalls, VPNs, WAFs, and threat vectors.
• Experience with SIEM tools and security analytics platforms.
• Certifications such as Security+, CEH, CISSP or GIAC are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Continuously monitor network security systems (firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM) for anomalies.
• Analyze alerts and logs to identify threats, vulnerabilities, and misconfigurations.
• Respond to security incidents following established protocols.
• Perform vulnerability assessments and testing to identify weaknesses.
• Develop and implement security policies and best practices.
• Stay updated on threats and technologies affecting network defense.
• Collaborate with IT and network teams to apply patches and changes.
• Generate reports on security status, incidents, and remediation steps.
• Contribute to security awareness and incident response planning.

Skills

SIEM expertise

Network security

Incident response

Vulnerability assessments

Education

Bachelor's in Cybersecurity/related field

Tools

Splunk

QRadar

Nessus

Qualys

Firewalls

VPNs

WAFs

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in telecommunications infrastructure, is seeking a highly skilled and vigilant Remote Network Security Analyst to bolster their cybersecurity operations. This position is entirely remote, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will play a critical role in safeguarding our client's network from evolving cyber threats, ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of sensitive data and critical systems. This is a remote-first role where you will be responsible for monitoring network traffic, identifying vulnerabilities, responding to security incidents, and implementing proactive security measures. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, advanced threat detection techniques, and robust analytical skills. You will be part of a distributed team of security professionals dedicated to maintaining a secure and resilient network environment for our client's extensive operations. This role demands a proactive, detail-oriented individual who can operate effectively in a remote setting, contributing significantly to the overall security posture of the organization. Our client is committed to providing a secure and stable remote working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Continuously monitor network security systems (firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM) for suspicious activities and potential breaches.
• Analyze security alerts and logs to identify threats, vulnerabilities, and misconfigurations.
• Respond to security incidents in a timely and effective manner, following established protocols.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify weaknesses in the network infrastructure.
• Develop and implement security policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance network defense.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest cybersecurity threats, trends, and technologies.
• Collaborate with IT and network teams to implement security patches and configuration changes.
• Generate regular reports on security status, incidents, and recommended remediation actions.
• Participate in security awareness training initiatives for employees.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of incident response plans.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in network security analysis, incident response, or cybersecurity operations.
• In-depth knowledge of network protocols, security technologies (firewalls, VPNs, WAFs), and threat vectors.
• Proficiency with SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk, QRadar) and security analytics platforms.
• Experience with vulnerability scanning tools (e.g., Nessus, Qualys).
• Strong understanding of security frameworks and compliance standards (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote work environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for reporting and collaboration.
• Relevant certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP, or GIAC are highly advantageous.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position, offering the ultimate flexibility in terms of work location within South Africa. Our client provides a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including private health insurance, a generous retirement fund, and paid annual leave. You will have access to cutting-edge security tools and technologies, with ample opportunities for professional development, training, and certification. We foster a collaborative and supportive remote work culture, with regular virtual team meetings and social events. Performance bonuses are awarded based on individual and team achievements in maintaining network security. A home office stipend may be provided to ensure you have the necessary equipment and a productive work environment. Join a mission-critical team dedicated to protecting vital telecommunications infrastructure.