Network Security Analyst

Network Security Analyst Type: Long-Term Contract (12 Months, Potential Extension) Location: Columbia, SC Work Setting: Fully Onsite (Monday–Friday) Candidate Location: Must currently reside in South Carolina; relocation candidates will not be considered. Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Network Security Analyst to support cybersecurity operations, network security monitoring, and infrastructure protection within a large enterprise environment. This is a hands‑on technical position focused on network security, firewalls, routing and switching, threat monitoring, and security assessments across on‑premises and cloud environments. The ideal candidate brings approximately 3–5 years of networking experience, combined with hands‑on IT security or system administration experience, and is comfortable investigating security alerts, analyzing network traffic, and supporting enterprise security controls. Key Responsibilities Monitor, investigate, and respond to network security alerts and potential threats. Perform security assessments for proposed firewall, connectivity, and infrastructure changes. Review firewall rules, website blocking requests, and network access changes to identify potential security risks. Analyze network traffic, security logs, and telemetry to identify suspicious activity and policy violations. Support the implementation and improvement of enterprise network security controls. Assist with network security planning, technical analysis, and infrastructure enhancements. Monitor on‑premises and cloud network environments for vulnerabilities and emerging threats. Support firewall configuration reviews, ruleset recertification, and network security auditing. Work with intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) and security monitoring tools. Assist with vulnerability scanning and remediation activities. Collaborate with infrastructure, security, and business teams to implement security improvements. Support cybersecurity compliance efforts involving HIPAA, NIST, and other applicable security frameworks. Develop and review network security reports, operational metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Provide technical recommendations and support ongoing Security Operations Center (SOC) activities. Required Qualifications Approximately 3–5 years of hands‑on experience in network design, implementation, administration, or support. Practical experience in IT security, network security, or systems administration. Strong understanding of routing, switching, and secure network design principles. Experience working with enterprise firewalls and network security controls. Ability to investigate and analyze security logs, alerts, and network traffic. Familiarity with IDS/IPS technologies, network security monitoring, and network auditing. Understanding of security architecture, data protection, access controls, and compliance practices. Working knowledge of Windows, macOS, and Linux environments. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to work independently on technical tasks while collaborating with senior security professionals. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. Network or network security certification, such as CCNA or PCNSE. Preferred Qualifications Experience with SIEM platforms, such as Splunk or IBM QRadar. Experience using vulnerability scanning tools such as Nessus or Qualys. Familiarity with cloud network security, particularly Microsoft Azure or AWS. Experience supporting cybersecurity operations in regulated environments. Knowledge of NIST, FISMA, HIPAA, or CMS ARC-AMPE security frameworks. Previous experience supporting healthcare IT or public‑sector environments. Additional certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a hands‑on Network Security Analyst or Network Engineer with security experience who understands how enterprise networks operate and how to protect them. This individual should be comfortable working with firewalls, routing and switching, security monitoring, log analysis, and network troubleshooting, while supporting daily SOC operations and security improvement initiatives. Candidates with a strong networking foundation who have transitioned into cybersecurity may be particularly well suited for this opportunity. Additional Information Fully onsite position in Columbia, South Carolina. Candidates must currently reside in South Carolina. Relocation is not permitted. Initial 12-month contract with potential for extension. Two‑round interview process: first round virtual, second round onsite in Columbia, SC. An onsite interview is mandatory for candidates advancing to the second round. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cornerstonetechtalent