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Entry Level Incident Response Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Reston, VA · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

BACK TO CAREERS Security Operations Specialist Carahsoft seeks an entry level Security Operations ... Excellent analytical and incident-response skills with attention to detail. * Effective ...

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Entry Level Incident Response information

See Virginia salary details

$40.6K

$126.1K

$197.8K

How much do entry level incident response jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level incident response in Virginia is $126,086.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,200.00 and $170,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level incident response?

An Entry Level Incident Response job involves monitoring, analyzing, and responding to cybersecurity threats and incidents within an organization. Analysts in this role assist in identifying security breaches, documenting findings, and following predefined procedures to mitigate risks. They typically work with security tools like SIEM systems, endpoint detection, and threat intelligence platforms. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of networking and security concepts are essential. This role serves as a foundation for advancing in cybersecurity operations and threat management.

What does an entry level incident response do?

In an Entry Level Incident Response position, your daily tasks might include monitoring security alerts, analyzing suspicious activity, assisting with the triage of incidents, documenting findings, and supporting more senior analysts during investigations. You’ll often work as part of a team within a security operations center (SOC), collaborating closely with IT professionals to ensure timely and coordinated responses to threats. This role can involve updates to security documentation, participating in simulations or tabletop exercises, and continuous learning about emerging threats. It’s a dynamic environment that balances routine monitoring with the excitement of hands-on analysis, making it ideal for those who enjoy both structure and problem-solving challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry level incident response role?

To thrive as an Entry Level Incident Response professional, you need a solid understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals, networking concepts, and analytical thinking, supported by a relevant degree or certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CySA+. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, endpoint detection and response software, and basic scripting is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help you excel in fast-paced and sometimes high-pressure situations. These skills are crucial for effectively identifying, analyzing, and responding to security incidents in order to minimize risk to the organization.

How to get a job in entry level incident response?

To get an entry-level incident response job, candidates should develop foundational knowledge of cybersecurity principles, network protocols, and common attack vectors. Earning relevant certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) can improve prospects, along with gaining hands-on experience through labs, internships, or labs. Strong problem-solving skills and familiarity with security tools like SIEM systems are also beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Incident Response jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Incident Response jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Incident Response jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Incident Response jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Incident Response jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Incident Response jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Incident Response jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Incident Response job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Incident Response job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,086 per year, or $60.6 per hour.

Junior Security Specialist- Incident Response

Virginia Farm Bureau

Henrico, VA • Hybrid

$74K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Virginia Farm Bureau rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 315 rated insurance


Job description

POSITION TITLE: Junior Security Specialist- Incident Response

STATUS: Exempt

COMPENSATION RANGE: $74,000 - $79,000 Annually

LOCATION: Based out of our beautiful West Creek Office, located at 12580 West Creek Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23238. Hybrid schedule is offered, in office 2 days a week, work from home 3 days a week, after training and probationary period is completed. No relocation offered.

REPORTS TO: Head of Active Defense

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Junior Security Specialist will support the Information Security Section in maintaining and improving the organizations security posture. This role assists with basic incident response coordination, vulnerability scanning, and system monitoring and system analyst duties. The individual will work closely with senior team members to learn and apply security best practices, contribute to ongoing security projects, and help ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational systems.
This is a growth-oriented position ideal for candidates with foundational cybersecurity knowledge and a desire to advance their skills in incident response, vulnerability and exposure management, threat detection, and security operations.

PRIMARY DUTIES:

  • Support incident response efforts by gathering data and assisting with ticket triage.

  • Assist with system event triage, non-conformance tracking, and other response actions as needed

  • Assist in performing internal and external vulnerability scans and documenting findings.

  • Support the remediation of identified vulnerabilities by coordinating with system owners and IT staff.

  • Monitor security tools and alerts, escalating issues to senior team members as needed.

  • Participate in security awareness activities, including phishing simulations and training coordination.

  • Help maintain documentation for security policies, procedures, and standards.

  • Collaborate with IT and compliance teams to support risk management and regulatory requirements.

  • Stay informed on basic cybersecurity trends and threats through training and research.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES:

  • Assist with account access reviews and basic IAM tasks.

  • Support endpoint protection efforts, including monitoring and updating security software.

  • Participate in tabletop exercises and team training sessions.

  • Help document un-remediated vulnerabilities in the risk registry under guidance.

  • Perform other information security and cybersecurity duties as directed

MINIMUM EDUCATIONAL/EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 13 years of experience in IT or cybersecurity-related roles.

  • Associates or Bachelors degree in cybersecurity, information technology, or a related field.

  • Entry-level certification preferred (e.g., CompTIA Security+, GIAC GSEC, Microsoft SC-900).

  • Basic understanding of network devices, operating systems, and security principles.

  • Strong desire to learn and grow in the cybersecurity field.

MINIMUM SKILL QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Familiarity with pentesting tools, methodologies, & Incident Response lifecycle.

  • Familiarity with vulnerability scanning tools and basic remediation processes.

  • Understanding of network and endpoint security fundamentals.

  • Ability to follow procedures and document work clearly.

  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

  • Analytical thinking and attention to detail.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Exposure to tools such as SIEM, EDR, IAM, or MDR platforms.

  • Familiarity with NIST, CIS, or ISO security frameworks.

  • Experience with cloud environments and mobile device management.

  • Hands-on experience with basic troubleshooting and system monitoring.

At VA Farm Bureau, we provide an exceptional benefits package, including ongoing job development and support in all roles, paid training and continuing education reimbursement, medical and dental insurance available on your first day, generous employee 401K contribution, excellent Paid Time off (PTO) plan and more!

Virginia Farm Bureau Companies provide equal employment opportunity in all aspects of employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, pregnancy, age, disability, orientation or veteran status.


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