Senior Information Security Analyst - Threat Detection

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Conferences & certifications

Collaborative environment

Cutting-edge security technologies

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a leading cybersecurity firm in Pietermaritzburg to recruit a Senior Information Security Analyst. The role focuses on threat detection, incident response, and strengthening security posture across the organization.

The ideal candidate holds a bachelor's degree in a related field, 5+ years of experience, and hands-on experience with SIEM tools (Splunk, QRadar, ELK Stack) and vulnerability management. Cloud security knowledge is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/IT/Cybersecurity or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years in information security focusing on threat detection and incident response.
• Experience with SIEM tools (Splunk, QRadar, ELK Stack) and security analytics.
• Knowledge of networks, Windows/Linux, and common attack vectors.
• Experience with vulnerability management and pentesting methodologies.
• Cloud security concepts (AWS/Azure/GCP) a plus; strong communication skills.
• Industry certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CEH, GIAC) desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain advanced threat detection systems.
• Monitor security alerts, analyze events, and initiate incident response.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to remediate weaknesses.
• Create and update security policies, standards, and procedures.
• Provide guidance on security best practices to IT staff and users.
• Analyze logs from SIEM, IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoints.
• Promote a security-aware culture and participate in awareness programs.
• Stay current with threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation techniques.

Skills

Threat detection

Incident response

Security analytics

Network security concepts

Windows & Linux security

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or related field

Tools

Splunk

QRadar

ELK Stack

Vulnerability management

Penetration testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading cybersecurity firm, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Information Security Analyst to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This is a critical role focused on enhancing the organization's defensive capabilities through advanced threat detection, incident response, and security posture enhancement. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in safeguarding sensitive data and critical infrastructure against evolving cyber threats. This position offers a stimulating work environment within a company committed to professional development and innovation in the cybersecurity space. You will be working with cutting-edge security technologies and collaborating with a team of dedicated professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain advanced threat detection systems and methodologies.
• Monitor security alerts and events, perform in-depth analysis, and initiate incident response procedures.
• Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate security weaknesses.
• Create and update security policies, standards, and procedures in line with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Provide expert guidance and support on security best practices to IT staff and end-users across the organization.
• Analyze security logs from various sources, including SIEM, IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoint protection systems.
• Participate in security awareness training programs and promote a security-conscious culture.
• Stay abreast of the latest cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation techniques.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure security is integrated into all aspects of the business operations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in information security, with a strong focus on threat detection and incident response.
• Proven experience with SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk, QRadar, ELK Stack) and security analytics.
• In-depth knowledge of network protocols, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and common attack vectors.
• Experience with vulnerability management tools and penetration testing methodologies.
• Familiarity with cloud security concepts (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Relevant security certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, or GIAC are highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal based environment.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and attending industry conferences.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Exposure to a wide range of cutting-edge security technologies.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.