Entry Level Security Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview

The Junior Cybersecurity Engineer supports the protection of the organization's information systems, networks, applications, and sensitive data. Working closely with senior security, infrastructure, and application teams, this role assists in monitoring security controls, responding to security incidents, managing vulnerabilities, and ensuring compliance with insurance industry regulations and security standards.

This position provides an excellent opportunity for an early-career cybersecurity professional to gain hands-on experience protecting critical systems that support policyholders, producers, clients, and business operations in a highly regulated insurance environment.

Essential Elements

Security Operations

• Monitor security alerts and events generated by security monitoring tools.
• Investigate and escalate suspicious activities, security incidents, and potential threats.
• Assist with incident response activities, documentation, containment, and remediation efforts.
• Support endpoint protection, email security, identity management, and network security technologies.
• Review security logs and assist with threat detection activities.

Vulnerability & Risk Management

• Perform routine vulnerability scans and assist with remediation tracking.
• Collaborate with IT teams to address security weaknesses and system hardening recommendations.
• Assist in maintaining asset inventories and security baselines.
• Support regular security assessments and internal control reviews.

Compliance & Governance

• Assist with compliance activities related to HIPAA, privacy regulations, cybersecurity frameworks, and insurance industry requirements.
• Help maintain security policies, procedures, standards, and documentation.
• Support internal and external audit requests by gathering evidence and preparing reports.
• Participate in user access reviews and security control testing.

Identity & Access Management

• Assist in reviewing user access permissions and role assignments.
• Support account provisioning, deprovisioning, and privilege management processes.
• Help administer multi-factor authentication and access control solutions.

Security Awareness

• Assist with cybersecurity awareness programs and employee training initiatives.
• Help communicate security best practices across the organization.
• Support phishing simulations and security awareness campaigns.

Requirements

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Security, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field required.
• Relevant internships, co-op experience, or cybersecurity projects may be considered in lieu of some work experience.

Experience

• 1–3 years of experience in cybersecurity, information technology, systems administration, network administration, or a related technical field.
• Exposure to security tools, networking concepts, and operating systems preferred.
• Experience in a regulated industry such as insurance, healthcare, or financial services is a plus.

Technical Knowledge

Familiarity with:

• Microsoft Windows and Active Directory
• Microsoft 365 and Azure environments
• Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) platforms
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• Vulnerability management tools
• SIEM and security monitoring platforms
• Firewalls, networking, TCP/IP, DNS, and VPN technologies
• Security frameworks such as NIST Cybersecurity Framework and CIS Controls

Preferred Certifications

• CompTIA Security+
• ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
• Microsoft Security Certifications
• GIAC or other entry-level security certifications (preferred)

Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and protecting sensitive information

Compensation And Benefits
The target base salary range for this full-time, salaried position is
$75,000-$95,000
Individual base pay depends on work location and additional factors such as experience, job-related skills, and relevant education or training. Total pay may include other forms of compensation. In addition, we offer competitive health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the first day of the month following the first day of employment. Please ask your Talent Acquisition Specialist for more information about our total rewards package.