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Security Operation Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Security Operations Analyst - Senior

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$108K - $141K/yr

C3EL is seeking a Senior Security Operations Analyst to support security operations in Washington, DC. This role is responsible for monitoring, detecting, and responding to cybersecurity threats ...

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Security Operation Analyst information

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$17

$44

$60

How much do security operation analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for security operation analyst in the United States is $44.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.62 and $54.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Security Operation Analyst vs Security Engineer?

AspectSecurity Operation AnalystSecurity Engineer
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCISSP, GIAC Security Certifications, CEH
Work EnvironmentMonitoring security alerts, incident response, threat analysisDesigning security systems, implementing security solutions, infrastructure setup
Employer & Industry UsageIT security teams in various industries, focusing on threat detectionSecurity architecture teams, focusing on system and network security design

The Security Operation Analyst primarily monitors and responds to security incidents, focusing on threat detection and incident management. In contrast, the Security Engineer designs and implements security measures to protect organizational infrastructure. Both roles require relevant certifications and work within security teams, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What does a Security Operation Analyst do?

A Security Operation Analyst is responsible for monitoring, detecting, and responding to cybersecurity threats within an organization. They work in Security Operations Centers (SOCs) to analyze security incidents, investigate suspicious activities, and implement measures to protect sensitive data and systems. Their role often includes using specialized tools to identify vulnerabilities, coordinating with IT teams to resolve issues, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge on emerging threats. By proactively managing security risks, they help ensure the organization's digital assets remain secure.

What are some common challenges faced by Security Operation Analysts, and how can they be addressed?

Security Operation Analysts often face challenges such as managing large volumes of alerts, staying ahead of emerging threats, and maintaining effective communication with other IT teams. To address these, analysts frequently use advanced security information and event management (SIEM) tools to prioritize incidents and automate routine tasks. Regular training and collaboration with colleagues in IT, compliance, and risk management also help analysts stay updated and respond more efficiently to incidents, ultimately strengthening the organization's security posture.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Security Operation Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Security Operation Analyst, you need a strong foundation in cybersecurity principles, threat analysis, and incident response, typically supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment platforms is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you quickly identify, investigate, and resolve security issues. These skills and qualities are crucial for protecting organizational assets and ensuring a rapid, coordinated response to cyber threats.
More about Security Operation Analyst jobs
What cities are hiring for Security Operation Analyst jobs? Cities with the most Security Operation Analyst job openings:
Infographic showing various Security Operation Analyst job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 77% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,821 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Senior Security Operations Analyst (15.40)

OCT Consulting, LLC

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Senior Security Operations Analyst
OCT Consulting is a business management and technology consulting firm that supports Federal Government clients. We provide consulting services in the areas of Strategy, Process Improvement, Change Management, Program and Project Management, Acquisition/Procurement, and Information Technology.
Responsibilities and Duties
OCT currently has an opening for a Senior Security Operations Analyst to work with our federal client. The client requires a Senior Security Operations Analyst to support the agency's cybersecurity program at its Washington, DC headquarters. This position focuses on security monitoring, analysis, incident response, and continuous monitoring across the client's hybrid IT infrastructure.
This position is contingent upon contract award.
Day to day responsibilities include:
  • Perform all security analysis activities according to established standards and best practices.
  • Maintain threat awareness and monitor information systems for exploits and suspicious activities; analyze aggregated logs and reports from security tools.
  • Develop and execute a daily security analysis and reporting checklist to ensure comprehensive coverage of security monitoring activities.
  • Evaluate effectiveness of security analysis activities compared to best practices and recommend improvements.
  • Adhere to continuous monitoring practices to evaluate effectiveness of implemented security controls and execute proactive threat hunting activities to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems.
  • Develop detection and response configuration policies to increase automation and alerting.
  • Develop incident handling procedures and execute incident response activities including all associated actions according to the incident response plan.
  • Validate that sufficient and relevant information is captured and retained from security tools to support actionable security awareness and incident investigations.
  • Collect security operations performance and security posture management metrics and prepare threat reports to inform risk management decisions.
  • Support the development and maintenance of security operations documentation and standard operating procedures.

Requirements
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Minimum six (6) continuous years of experience in security operations analysis in a federal government environment.
  • Demonstrated experience with security log analysis, threat detection, and incident response in a SOC or similar operational security environment.
  • Hands-on experience with SIEM platforms, EDR/NDR tools, and security monitoring technologies.
  • Strong knowledge of NIST guidelines, FISMA requirements, and federal cybersecurity frameworks.
  • Experience developing and executing security checklists, SOPs, and incident handling procedures.
  • Familiarity with continuous monitoring practices, threat hunting, and security posture management.
  • Experience preparing security metrics, threat reports, and risk management briefings for senior leadership.
  • Security+, GCIA, GCIH, CYSA+, or equivalent security analyst certification required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field preferred; relevant IT certifications may be substituted for a formal degree.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance; background investigation will involve credit, fingerprint, and law enforcement agency checks.
  • Must work primarily onsite in SW, Washington, DC 20024; limited remote work may be authorized.

Benefits
OCT offers competitive compensation packages and a full suite of benefits which includes:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Retirement savings 401K plan provided by an industry leading provider with 3% employer contributions of the employee's gross salary
  • Paid Time Off and Standard Government Holidays
  • Life Insurance, Short- and Long-Term disability benefits
  • Training Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000 - $130,000 yearly commensurate with experience, education, etc.
About OCT Consulting OCT Consulting LLC is a Small Business (SB) providing professional services and information technology solutions to the Federal government and commercial clients. Founded in 2013, we bring the agility of operations and a management team with a track record of leading successful engagements at major Federal government agencies.
At OCT we believe in creating a work environment where employees can thrive based on their abilities, skills, and achievements. We are dedicated to providing career growth and professional development based on individual merit and fostering a workplace where everyone's contributions are valued and recognized.