Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity Analyst

This position requires an active Public Trust clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Criterion Systems, a Cherokee Federal company, is seeking a motivated Security Analyst to support cybersecurity operations in a federal environment. The selected candidate will perform hands-on detection, analysis, investigation, threat hunting, and incident response activities while helping strengthen the organization's security posture. This is an operational cybersecurity role requiring end-to-end ownership of security incidents and active participation in protecting mission-critical systems.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Security Analyst: $110,000 - $115,000

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full-time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Paid Time Off, Life Insurance, Disability Coverage, and other benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Security Analyst Responsibilities Include:

• Monitor and analyze security events utilizing Splunk Enterprise Security (ES).

• Build, maintain, and tune Splunk searches, correlation rules, alerts, and dashboards.

• Conduct incident response activities from detection through containment, eradication, recovery, and closure.

• Investigate endpoint security incidents utilizing Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

• Perform endpoint policy management and incident investigations.

• Assess AWS cloud security telemetry utilizing GuardDuty, Security Hub, and related cloud security services.

• Identify threats, vulnerabilities, suspicious activity, and cloud misconfigurations.

• Execute alert triage, incident scoping, and escalation activities according to established playbooks.

• Recommend updates and improvements to operational procedures and incident response playbooks.

• Support threat hunting activities and detection engineering initiatives aligned to MITRE ATT&CK methodologies.

• Perform phishing investigations, alert enrichment, and forensic review activities.

• Conduct root cause analysis and document corrective actions following security incidents.

• Track incidents and operational tasks utilizing case management systems.

• Participate in tabletop exercises and operational readiness activities.

• Collaborate with Security Operations teams, Incident Response personnel, and federal stakeholders.

• Prepare reports and communicate findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Security Analyst Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities Requested:

• Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in cybersecurity operations, SOC analysis, incident response, or related security disciplines.

• Demonstrated hands-on experience with Splunk Enterprise Security, including search development, dashboard creation, and correlation rule tuning.

• Experience utilizing Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for security investigations and policy management.

• Working knowledge of AWS cloud security technologies, including GuardDuty, Security Hub, or equivalent tools.

• Proven experience managing incidents through the complete incident response lifecycle.

• Working knowledge of MITRE ATT&CK framework and common threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures.

• Familiarity with incident response methodologies and frameworks such as NIST 800-61.

• Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience supporting federal government customers or highly regulated environments.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) platforms.

• Experience developing automation scripts utilizing Python, PowerShell, or similar technologies.

• Familiarity with FISMA, FedRAMP, CMMC, or other federal cybersecurity compliance frameworks.

• Experience with Network Detection and Response (NDR) technologies.

• Exposure to packet capture analysis and network forensics platforms.

• Knowledge of malware analysis methodologies and digital forensics fundamentals.

• Industry certifications such as Security+, CySA+, GCIH, GCIA, CEH, or equivalent.

Key Competencies:

• Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail.

• End-to-end ownership and accountability.

• Adaptability within fast-paced mission environments.

• Strong communication and documentation skills.

• Collaborative and team-oriented approach.

• Commitment to continuous improvement and cybersecurity best practices.

Company Information:

Criterion Systems provides innovative cybersecurity, cloud, systems engineering, and mission support services to federal government customers. The company delivers secure, scalable solutions that help agencies modernize operations and protect critical systems while supporting professional growth and career advancement.

Criterion Systems is part of Cherokee Federal — a team of tribally owned federal contracting companies supporting mission-critical programs across the federal sector.