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$8

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for security operations center operator in McLean, VA is $20.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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Cities near McLean, VA with the most Security Operations Center Operator job openings:

Security Operations Center Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Security Operations Center Operator job openings in McLean, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,692 per year, or $20 per hour.

Security Operations Center (SOC) Officer

Securitas

Washington, DC • On-site

$32 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Securitas rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 998 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 117 rated security

Job description

Security Operations Center (SOC) Officer

Wage: $32.00-35.00/hour

**This position is located fully In-Person in Washington, D.C

Position Summary

The Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst is responsible for monitoring, detecting, analyzing, and responding to security incidents affecting an organization's people, facilities, assets, and operations. The SOC serves as a centralized command center that provides continuous monitoring, incident management, threat assessment, and coordination of security-related activities to protect the organization from physical and operational risks.

Security Monitoring

  • Monitor security systems, including CCTV, access control, intrusion detection, and alarm systems.
  • Identify, investigate, and respond to security alerts and incidents.
  • Maintain continuous situational awareness of facility and personnel security.

Incident Management

  • Escalate incidents according to established procedures and response protocols.
  • Coordinate with internal stakeholders, security personnel, emergency responders, and law enforcement when necessary.

Threat Assessment and Analysis

  • Evaluate potential threats, suspicious activities, and security vulnerabilities.

Emergency Response Support

  • Assist in the activation and coordination of emergency response plans.

Required Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of experience in security operations, emergency management, law enforcement, military, or related field.
  • 5-7 years of Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst or equivalent experience.
  • Active D.C. Security Officer (SO) license.
  • Technology proficient.
  • Knowledge of physical security systems and incident response procedures.
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a Security Operations Center, Command Center, or Emergency Operations Center.

We help make your world a safer place.

Securitas is a global company that offers the most advanced and sustainable security solutions in the industry. We are located in 47 countries and have 355,000 employees worldwide and over 150,000 clients.

We are driven by a clear corporate culture and purpose, which helps us live according to our values of Integrity, Vigilance, and Helpfulness. These values are at the heart of our culture, help define who we are, and guide our actions.

Are you interested in being part of our Team?

  • Apply quickly and efficiently online
  • Interview from the convenience of your own home
  • Weekly pay
  • Competitive benefits
  • Flexible schedules

With over 80 years of protecting the things that matter, we've seen more than most. That's why Securitas is the partner of choice for companies and an employer of choice for candidates worldwide.

See a different world.

Securitas is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other applicable legally protected characteristic.

Securitas employees come from all walks of life, bringing with them a variety of distinctive skills and perspectives. United through our common purpose, we provide the security needed to safeguard our clients' assets and people. Our core values - Integrity, Vigilance and Helpfulness - are represented by the three red dots in the Securitas logo. If you live by these values, we’re looking for you to join the Securitas team.

Benefits include: 
  • Retirement plan
  • Employer-provided medical and dental coverage
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Voluntary life and disability insurance
  • Employee assistance plan
  • Securitas Saves discount program
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid time away from work

Additionally, some populations may have the availability of accessing earned wages on a daily basis, prior to payday. Restrictions and fees may apply.
Certain waiting periods may also apply. Paid time away from work may be available either through a combination of vacation and sick time or under a PTO policy, depending on local requirements. Benefits may be different for union members.

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