Entry Level Cyber Security Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Description

Summary

The Cybersecurity Analyst Level 1 is an entry-level role responsible for supporting the monitoring, analysis, and response to cybersecurity events under close supervision. This position focuses on learning core security tools, processes, and compliance requirements while contributing to day-to-day security operations. The Analyst develops foundational skills in threat detection, incident response, and risk awareness while supporting the credit union's mission to protect member data, systems, and trust.

Essential Functions

• Supports the monitoring of security alerts, logs, and telemetry from cybersecurity tools such as SIEM and EDR/XDR, following established procedures and escalation guidelines.
• Assists with basic investigation of routine security events and alerts, documenting findings and actions under guidance from senior team members.
• Learns and follows incident response procedures, supporting containment and remediation activities as directed.
• Performs defined tasks related to vulnerability scanning, patch validation, and security hygiene activities with supervision.
• Helps maintain documentation, including standard operating procedures, playbooks, and incident records, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Supports security awareness initiatives such as phishing simulations, reporting analysis, and employee cyber hygiene activities.
• Assists with access reviews and basic identity and access management tasks following documented processes.
• Learns to use security dashboards, reports, and ticketing systems to accurately enter, locate, and update information.
• Participates in tabletop exercises, drills, and training activities to build understanding of security operations and response processes.
• Collaborates with cybersecurity team members, IT, and other departments in a respectful and professional manner.
• Supports assigned project tasks, meeting deadlines with guidance and supervision.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications

Experience

• Minimum one year of relevant experience in cybersecurity, IT or a related technical field.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience in lieu of degree.
• Entry-level or foundational certifications preferred (e.g., CompTIA, Security+, Network+, or similar).

Knowledge

• Demonstrates basic knowledge of cybersecurity concepts, tools, and terminology, with a willingness to learn and grow.
• Foundational understanding of cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST CSF and CIS Controls.
• Awareness of the incident response lifecycle and basic security operations concepts.
• Introductory familiarity with log analysis, alert review, and common attack patterns.
• Understanding of the importance of compliance, policies, and procedures in reducing risk.
• Develops an understanding of the credit union's mission, values, and how cybersecurity supports member trust and organizational goals.

Skills/Abilities

• Follows established procedures carefully, with a developing focus on reliability, accuracy, and attention to detail.
• Communicates professionally in routine situations and is open to feedback to improve clarity and effectiveness.
• Shows a helpful, respectful attitude and understands the importance of cybersecurity in supporting member service and trust.
• Learns to apply structured thinking to routine problems and seeks guidance when encountering unfamiliar situations.
• Demonstrates openness to learning new tools, processes, and approaches.
• Builds trust through dependability, accountability, and a positive attitude.
• Completes clearly defined tasks with close supervision.
• Learns through structured training, documentation, and guidance from senior team members.
• Gradually builds confidence and independence while remaining accountable for assigned responsibilities.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• Works primarily in a climate-controlled office or operations center environment using computers, multiple monitors, and standard office and IT equipment.
• Ability to sit for extended periods, with frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, data entry, and operating equipment, and occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching.
• Ability to view computer screens for prolonged periods, read detailed information, and maintain focus on detailed or repetitive tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through electronic communications.
• Ability to occasionally lift and move light office or IT equipment and materials, generally up to 25 pounds.
• Work involves regular interaction with cybersecurity and IT team members and occasional interaction with other departments in a moderate-noise office environment.
• May require occasional after-hours or extended hours during security incidents, system maintenance, or exercises.
• Required to follow security, confidentiality, and access control procedures while performing job duties.