1

Security Operations Center Analyst Jobs in Chicago, IL

next page

Showing results 1-20

Security Operations Center Analyst information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$37

$72

How much do security operations center analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for security operations center analyst in Chicago, IL is $37.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $45.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a security operations center analyst?

Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts are cybersecurity professionals who monitor, detect, and respond to security threats within an organization’s IT environment. They analyze security alerts, investigate incidents, and coordinate responses to mitigate risks and protect sensitive data. SOC Analysts use specialized tools to track suspicious activities, implement security measures, and ensure compliance with security policies. Their work is crucial in defending organizations against cyberattacks and maintaining overall information security.

What does a security operations center analyst do?

A security operations center analyst works on the cybersecurity team at an organization to proactively defend the organization's database, website, servers, and network. In this role you control the security alerts and ensure that each alert is taken care of before the threat of hackers gaining access to your company's information is realized. You may run an investigation if you see similar threats repeatedly to see who is attempting to attack your systems and why. Your other duties may include keeping and analyzing a security log, coordinating with other analysts or security team members, and assessing company vulnerability.

What skills make an effective security operations center analyst?

To thrive as a Security Operations Center Analyst, you need a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, network protocols, and incident response, often backed by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Familiarity with SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk, QRadar), intrusion detection systems, and ticketing platforms is essential for effective monitoring and analysis. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication help SOC Analysts excel in identifying threats and collaborating with IT teams. These skills are crucial to quickly detecting, investigating, and mitigating security incidents, protecting organizational assets from cyber threats.

What are the most common challenges security operations center analysts face during daily operations?

Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts often deal with a high volume of alerts, many of which may be false positives, requiring keen analytical skills to prioritize genuine threats. Staying updated on evolving cyber threats and attack patterns is another challenge, as adversaries continuously adapt their tactics. Additionally, SOC Analysts frequently work in high-pressure environments where quick, accurate decision-making is crucial, and collaboration with IT, incident response teams, and management is essential to ensure coordinated defense efforts.

What is the difference between Security Operations Center Analyst vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity Operations Center AnalystSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP (preferred)CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CISA (preferred)
Work EnvironmentMonitoring security alerts in a SOC, 24/7 shiftsAnalyzing security data, conducting risk assessments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in security operations centers, cybersecurity firmsVarious industries including finance, healthcare, government

The Security Operations Center Analyst focuses on real-time monitoring and incident response within a SOC environment, often working in shifts. In contrast, a Security Analyst typically conducts broader security assessments, policy development, and risk analysis across organizations. Both roles require similar certifications and are integral to cybersecurity teams, but their daily tasks and work settings differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Operations Center Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Security Operations Center Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Security Operations Center Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Security Operations Center Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Security Operations Center Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Operations Center Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Security Operations Center Analyst jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Security Operations Center Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Security Operations Center Analyst job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,987 per year, or $38 per hour.

Security Operations Center Operator

Titan Security Group

Chicago, IL

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Titan Security Group rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 116 rated security


Job description

The SOC Operator is responsible for monitoring security systems, coordinating emergencies, compiling daily reports, replying to email and phone inquiries and general workplace duties, as needed. The candidate needs to be comfortable in a fast-paced, growing environment. Superior communication and multi-tasking skills are strongly desired. A professional yet approachable personality, who can make sound decisions through training with limited supervision, will excel in our environment.   

Responsibilities:

  • Push/Report all appropriate operational matters in real-time directly to the SOC Manager, Director of Operations and members of senior management.
  • Provide excellent Customer Service to all parties encountered while on duty.
  • Acts on all customer service related calls and either resolves them personally or refers issues to the appropriate individuals. Manage communications for emergency and non-emergency calls-for-service, to include; phone and email workstations. Monitor email inboxes, work order service requests and all communications devices; prioritize and process incoming information according to procedure.
  • Responsible for establishing, maintaining and reviewing schedules.
  • Assist in the supervision and management of team of security officers, payroll, training, coaching, development and support.
  • Handle all escalated security issues or emergency situations appropriately. Coordinate emergency incidents with Security Team. Notify, assist, and direct external emergency personnel and internal Emergency Response Team as necessary.
  • Acknowledge alarms and dispatch personnel as needed
  • Participate in regular training and scenario based security drills
  • Understand and execute emergency SOC protocols, Understand and execute general service SOC protocols.
  • Perform SOC related projects and tasks as requested by the SOC Manager or Director of Operations
  • Compile daily SOC activities into daily shift reports. Accurately ensure detailed shift pass-downs are issued and followed. Compile monthly, quarterly and annual SOC statistical data. Author incident reports as described in SOC protocols
  • Perform other tasks and duties of a similar nature and scope as assigned

Due to the nature of this assignment, special attention is paid to those candidates that are able to successfully demonstrate: A work history illustrating a progressively increasing security/customer service related skill sets and responsibilities with an emphasis in a supervisory capacity work, communication center protocol, knowledge of security operations, in addition to an advanced level computer proficiency/technological skills, specifically as it relates to established physical security needs.

Having any, or a combination of the above listed attributes may increase your chances of selection 

Qualifications & Benefits:

Education and/or Experience: High School diploma or general education degree (GED) and 2 years prior satisfactory employment as a security officer or in a customer service position. Experience in a heavy volume call center and dispatch preferred. Must be at least 20 years of age.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Ability to acquire and maintain a valid PERC Card, including state accredited training requirements.

Language Skills:  Must have the ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.

Computer Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint).

Other Qualifications:  Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.  Must maintain a working telephone number though which we can contact you. 

Physical Demands:  The physical demands are based on the contract and must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

Salary & Benefits: Compensation is between $21.00 - $23.00 / hour based on experience, plus paid time off, medical insurance, dental insurance, paid holidays, and pension/retirement benefits. Skills-enhancing training and opportunities for career growth and promotion.

EOE/M/F/D/V

#HP


What Titan Security Group employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom