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Security Operations Center Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Security Operations Center (SOC) Level 1 Operator is a CCTV, alarm monitoring, and dispatch specialist. The Level 1 Operator will monitor several screens observing cameras, monitor access control ...

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Security Operations Center Operator information

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for security operations center operator in the United States is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSecurity Operations Center OperatorSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP (preferred)CompTIA Security+, CISSP, GIAC certifications
Work EnvironmentMonitoring security systems in a SOC, responding to alertsAnalyzing security data, investigating incidents, reporting
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in cybersecurity firms, large enterprises, government agenciesUsed across industries for threat detection and risk assessment

Security Operations Center (SOC) Operators focus on real-time monitoring and initial response to security alerts, while Security Analysts perform in-depth analysis, investigation, and reporting. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the same environment, but their responsibilities differ in scope and depth of analysis.

What are some common challenges faced by Security Operations Center Operators, and how can they be managed?

SOC Operators often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of alerts, distinguishing false positives from genuine threats, and maintaining situational awareness during fast-paced incidents. Effective time management, continuous training on new threat vectors, and leveraging automation tools can help address these challenges. Collaborating closely with incident response teams and participating in regular drills also ensures readiness and improves overall team effectiveness.

What does a Security Operations Center Operator do?

As a security operations center operator, or SOC operator, you monitor a variety of technologies including access control, video surveillance, and alarm systems to provide security service and threat elimination for industrial, business, or residential customers. You respond to medical crises, safety incidents, natural disasters and other emergencies, and dispatch security officers, police, fire, EMS personnel, and other services as required. Your duties and responsibilities also include investigating incidents, escalating situations to appropriate parties in the SOC, and filing incident reports. In some roles, you are responsible for monitoring social media and other news and information channels to support threat identification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Security Operations Center Operator?

To thrive as a Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator, you need a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, incident response, and network monitoring, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, intrusion detection systems, and ticketing platforms is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for identifying threats and collaborating with teams. These skills are essential to quickly detect, assess, and respond to security incidents, ensuring the organization's information assets remain protected.
What cities are hiring for Security Operations Center Operator jobs? Cities with the most Security Operations Center Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Security Operations Center Operator jobs? The top employers for Security Operations Center Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Security Operations Center Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Security Operations Center Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Security Operations Center Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,244 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Security Operations Center Operator / Patrol

GardaWorld

San Jose, CA

$25.45 - $26.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


GardaWorld rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 406 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 116 rated security


Job description

GardaWorld Security Services is Now Hiring a Security Operations Center Operator / Patrol!

Ready to suit up as a Security Operations Center Operator / Patrol?
Must have one year of security operations center operator experience
Must be familiar with security operations software such as Lenel and CCure
Must familiar and comfortable clearing alarms
Must be familiar and comfortable creating and issuing badges for new employees, vendors, visitors etc.
High level of customer service skills / experience
Please include your most up to date security resume

What matters most about a role like this is your sharp eye, capturing every detail as you scan a series of screens. Tell us about your strong observation skills with attention to detail..

As a Security Officer - Surveillance, you will be the person spotting threats before they escalate in environments such as a security operations centers, call centers, parking gatehouses, etc.

What's in it for you:

  • Site Location: San Jose
  • Set schedule: Full time, 32 hours per week
    • Tuesday / Wednesday, 3:00pm - 11:30pm (Patrol). Thursday / Friday, 3:00pm - 11:30pm (SOC)
  • Competitive hourly wage of $25.45 / hour (Patrol) & $26.90 (SOC)  (DailyPay is available for GardaWorld employees!)
  • A comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, a 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions, disability coverage, and life insurance options
  • Career growth opportunities at GardaWorld
  • Uniform provided at no cost

Responsibilities of a Security Operations Center Operator / Patrol

  • Monitor security systems to detect any suspicious activity
  • Document observed events and incidents, writing detailed reports
  • Respond quickly to incidents or potential threats
  • Conduct regular patrols to ensure the safety of the premises
  • Control access to secure areas and verify the identities of visitors
  • Analyze security systems to identify potential vulnerabilities or malfunctions
  • Collaborate with law enforcement in case of serious situations or emergencies
  • Ensure the safety and protection of individuals and property

Qualifications for Security Operations Center Operator / Patrol

  • You have a state security license and additional 32hr. BSIS security trainings (Additional security trainings can be obtained during the hiring process)
  • Be authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Be able to provide documentation of High School Diploma or GED
  • Must have one year of security operations center operator experience
  • Must be familiar with security operations software such as Lenel & CCure
  • Must familiar and comfortable clearing alarms
  • Must be familiar and comfortable creating and issuing badges for new employees, vendors, visitors etc.
  • High level of customer service skills / experience
  • Please include your most up to date security resume
  • Strong report writing skills
  • Sharp visual activity and exceptional concentration skills
  • Strong proficiency with technology
  • Exceptional customer service skills
  • If you have Security, Military, Law Enforcement experience - even better!

In the United States, GardaWorld Security remains the only guarding security company to be Certified by Great Place to Work. Apply today - this could be more than a job! 26% of our corporate employees started as frontline workers.

If you're ambitious with an entrepreneurial spirit - someone who wants to be a GardaWorld Ambassador - a promising career awaits you!

GardaWorld Security is a global champion in sophisticated and tailored security solutions, employing and training highly skilled and dedicated professionals across the globe.

Not the job for you? Make sure to check out all our jobs! We also have tactical, surveillance, and even casual roles available.

It is the policy of GardaWorld Security Services to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, or disability in accordance with applicable federal laws. In addition, GardaWorld Security Services complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to hiring, placement, assignment, promotion, termination, layoffs, recalls, transfers, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. It is also the policy of GardaWorld Security Services not to honor requests that employees be assigned on the basis of sex or any other classification protected by law, unless such request is based on a bona fide occupational qualification for that assignment.
GardaWorld Security Services of California, Inc. 
CA Private Patrol Number 16344


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