2

Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer Jobs in Illinois

... cybersecurity risks - Developing and maintaining security infrastructure to support seamless ... PwC does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in the ...

AI Governance Sr Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K - $212K/yr

... Cybersecurity, Economics, Engineering, Finance, Mathematics/Statistics, Project/Technology ... PwC does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in the ...

Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$39.2K

$119.1K

$174.4K

How much do entry level cyber security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cyber security engineer in Illinois is $119,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,800.00 and $137,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level cyber security engineer do?

A typical day for an Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer involves monitoring security alerts, assisting with vulnerability assessments, and supporting the team in investigating security incidents. You may also help configure and maintain security software, document procedures, and participate in security awareness training for staff. Most roles offer opportunities to collaborate closely with IT teams and senior engineers, allowing you to learn on the job and grow your technical skills. This hands-on experience is an excellent foundation for advancing to more specialized or senior cyber security positions as your career progresses.

What is an entry level cyber security engineer?

An Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer is responsible for assisting in the protection of an organization's computer systems and networks from cyber threats. They typically work under the guidance of senior security professionals to monitor security systems, analyze potential threats, and implement security measures. Their tasks may include configuring firewalls, responding to security incidents, conducting vulnerability assessments, and ensuring compliance with security policies. Strong analytical skills, a foundational understanding of cybersecurity principles, and proficiency in tools like SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) are essential. This role serves as a stepping stone for more advanced cybersecurity positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level cyber security engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer, a solid understanding of networking principles, operating systems, and foundational security concepts—often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field—is essential. Familiarity with security tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, basic scripting, and industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CCNA Security is highly advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and a proactive approach to learning help individuals excel in this position. These competencies ensure you can identify vulnerabilities, respond to incidents, and contribute to a collaborative and security-focused environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cyber Security Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Cyber Security Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cyber Security Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,083 per year, or $57.3 per hour.

Sr Security Analyst with Security Clearance

ECS

Scott Air Force Base, IL • On-site

$92K - $121K/yr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Description ECS is seeking a Senior Security Analyst to work in our Scott AFB, IL office. As a leading managed cybersecurity services provider, ECS delivers highly tailored cybersecurity solutions aligned to each customer's mission needs. The Professional Services Team partners with customers to understand their environment, strengthen security posture, and deliver measurable outcomes across detection, response, and continuous improvement. We are seeking a Security Analyst with strong Elastic SIEM experience and solid cybersecurity fundamentals who can investigate alerts, hunt threats, and help operationalize detection capabilities across network, cloud, and endpoint telemetry. This role requires analytical rigor, comfort working directly with customers, and the ability to operate with limited oversight in fast-paced environments. Key Responsibilities * Network Monitoring & Intrusion Detection: Perform analysis using defense tools including IDS/IPS, firewalls, and host-based security systems. * SIEM Operations (Elastic SIEM): Use Elastic SIEM to correlate events, identify indicators of compromise, and produce actionable intelligence for response. * Threat Detection Engineering (Analyst-led): Implement and improve log-based and endpoint-based detection strategies; validate detections and recommend tuning based on outcomes. * Content Development: Develop and tune SIEM content such as detection rules, machine learning rules, dashboards, and visualizations aligned to customer requirements. * Activity Correlation: Correlate data across network, cloud, and endpoints to identify attacks and unauthorized actions. * Alert Management & Reporting: Triage alerts from SIEM and other sensors; document incidents with clear technical reporting and recommendations. * Threat Research: Investigate emerging threats and vulnerabilities to enhance detection and incident identification processes. * Phishing Analysis: Analyze phishing submissions and recommend appropriate response actions. * Incident Response Support: Support containment and mitigation activities; contribute to root cause analysis and corrective actions. * Automation & Integrations: Create or maintain scripts (Python/PowerShell) for investigation support, enrichment, and workflow automation; help integrate telemetry sources into Elastic as needed. * Customer Training & Enablement: Provide training to customer teams on SIEM usage, detection capabilities, investigation workflows, and security best practices to drive long-term operational success. * Operational Excellence: Contribute to documentation (runbooks, detection standards, triage playbooks) and continuous improvement of SOC workflows. Required Skills * 2+ years of cybersecurity experience * Elastic SIEM proficiency: Monitoring, detection, triage, and investigation using Elastic SIEM; experience with Kibana and familiarity with Logstash / ingest pipelines preferred * Strong cybersecurity fundamentals including network protocols, encryption concepts, and vulnerabilities * Strong analytical skills for identifying patterns and anomalies across multiple data sources * Scripting/automation experience using Python or PowerShell * Experience creating and tuning SIEM rules, signatures, and dashboards * Strong written and verbal communication skills * Ability to problem-solve and operate under pressure in fast-paced environments * Willingness to support domestic or international travel (short, planned engagements) * Must possess and maintain a U.S. Passport * Must have a Secret clearance, at minimum Desired Skills * Prior experience working in a Security Operations Center (SOC) * Experience with EDR, SIEM, SOAR, and ticketing tools * Familiarity with threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) * Familiarity with cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP) and related security telemetry * Experience supporting Elastic observability data (logs, metrics, traces) for investigations * Certifications such as CISSP, CEH, GCIH, Elastic Certified Analyst, or equivalent * Entry-level cybersecurity certifications (A+, Net+, Sec+, GSEC, etc.) #EverforthECS1 ECS Federal LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis any characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local jurisdiction law. is the federal segment of , a $4B global organization with over 10,000 employees. Our nearly 3,500 professionals deliver advanced technology solutions in data and AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise transformation, serving defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies. Our work powers mission-critical outcomes, strengthens technology partnerships, and creates meaningful opportunities for our people. We are defined by a commitment to excellence in delivery, a culture of innovation, and an environment where talent can thrive and grow. We value: * Attracting and developing top talent and high-performing teams * Fostering a culture that is engaging, accountable, and mission-driven Meet the challenge. Make a difference with Everforth ECS!