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Security Operations Center Operator Jobs in Virginia

Chenega Corporation

SOC Operator

Quantico, VA · On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

Summary The Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator will perform security duties to include monitoring various systems to detect, and respond to alarms, security incidents, criminal acts, emergency ...

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

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for security operations center operator in Virginia is $19.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator do?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator is responsible for monitoring an organization's IT infrastructure for security threats and incidents. They use specialized tools to detect, analyze, and respond to cybersecurity threats in real-time. SOC Operators also maintain security systems, document incidents, and collaborate with other IT and security staff to protect sensitive data. Their role is crucial in preventing, identifying, and mitigating cyberattacks to ensure the organization's information remains secure.

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 (SOC) 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, and why are they important?

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.
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Security Operations Center Operator jobs near you
SOC Operator

SOC Operator

Chenega Security International, LLC

Quantico, VA • On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Overview

The Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator will perform security duties to include monitoring various systems to detect, and respond to alarms, security incidents, criminal acts, emergency situations, or unauthorized intrusions into the Russell Knox Building in Quantico, VA.

Responsibilities
  • Monitor various systems and respond to alarms, security incidents, criminal acts, emergency situations, or unauthorized intrusions.
  • Report suspicious activities, incidents, or anomalies to the government on a real-time basis or as otherwise required by FSMD and/or other agency procedures.
  • Conduct individual checks using the FBI's National Criminal Information Center (NCIC) and other law enforcement databases to assist with vetting.
  • Provide notifications to onsite personnel and offsite emergency organizations, monitor emergency communications, control access to the emergency scene, and perform other emergency response duties as required by the government.
  • Protect all Government property, information, documentation, material, buildings, and equipment from unauthorized access, theft, or sabotage.
  • Cooperate with and assist law enforcement agencies during criminal investigations or security incidents.
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Active Top Secret clearance required.
  • Must have a minimum of three years' experience working in a security operations center.
Employment Type: OTHER

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