Cybersecurity Support Specialist
A professional responsible for safeguarding information systems by identifying vulnerabilities, fortifying defenses, and responding to security breaches.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Cybersecurity Support Specialist
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
A Cybersecurity Support Specialist is responsible for assisting in the protection of an organization's computer networks and systems. They play a critical role in defending against cyber threats and ensuring the safety and integrity of sensitive information.
Required Skills
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Attention to detail
- Basic technical proficiency with security tools and technologies
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Strong communication skills
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Understanding of common information security principles and practices.
- Basic knowledge of network security and cryptography.
- Familiarity with security software, such as antivirus programs, and other defensive tools.
- Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively.
Responsibilities
- Monitor security systems for anomalies and respond to potential security breaches.
- Assist in the analysis of security alerts and the implementation of appropriate countermeasures.
- Support the development and maintenance of security documentation such as policies, procedures, and reports.
- Help maintain security tools and technology, ensuring they are updated and functioning correctly.
- Collaborate with IT teams to ensure security protocols are integrated into all aspects of the technical infrastructure.
- Train staff on security awareness and best practices to reduce risk.
- Participate in security audits and contribute to the resolution of audit findings.
- Provide recommendations for enhancing the organization's security posture.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Cybersecurity Support Specialist, you'll be a critical part of the IT team, focusing on safeguarding our company's computer networks and systems. You will be expected to monitor our networks for security breaches and investigate violations when they occur.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical skills to analyze security needs and develop appropriate strategies
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
- Effective communication skills for reporting to stakeholders and coordinating with IT staff
- Ability to educate staff on cybersecurity policies and procedures
- Knowledge of potential attack vectors such as phishing, social engineering, network, and application attacks
- Experience with computer network penetration testing and techniques
- Understanding of computer forensics, including the ability to preserve evidence
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field
- Certifications in cybersecurity such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), or related credentials
- Proven work experience as a Cybersecurity Specialist or similar role
- Understanding of firewalls, antivirus, IDS/IPS may be required
- Familiarity with security frameworks (e.g., NIST Cybersecurity framework) and risk management methodologies
- Knowledge of patch management, firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDPS)
Responsibilities
- Monitor the company's networks for security breaches and investigate a violation when one occurs
- Implement and maintain security measures and controls
- Protect digital files and information systems against unauthorized access, modification or destruction
- Conduct internal and external security audits
- Manage and configure security technologies such as firewalls, antivirus software, patch management systems, etc.
- Develop and update company disaster recovery and business continuity plans
- Coordinate with the IT department to enhance the company's IT system security
- Respond to computer security breaches and viruses
- Report security breaches to appropriate stakeholders
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Senior Cybersecurity Support Specialist, you will be responsible for safeguarding the organization's computer networks and systems. You will plan and implement security measures to protect sensitive data and systems from cyber attacks, analyze security breaches, and ensure secure user access. You will also stay updated with the latest security and technology developments to maintain defense strategies.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to lead and mentor junior staff.
- Proficient in risk assessment and management.
- Hands-on experience with security software and hardware.
- Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and integrity.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field.
- Professional security certification, such as CISSP, CISM, or CEH.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a cybersecurity role.
- Proven experience with network security and networking technologies and with system, security, and network monitoring tools.
- Familiarity with public key infrastructure (PKI) and cryptographic protocols (e.g. SSL/ TLS).
- An understanding of operating systems, including UNIX, Linux, and Windows Server.
- Experience with incident response and handling.
- Knowledge of laws, regulations, and frameworks pertaining to information security, such as GDPR, HIPAA, NIST, and ISO 27001.
Responsibilities
- Monitor network traffic for unusual activity and potential threats, and respond to security breaches or intrusions.
- Install and use software, such as firewalls and data encryption programs, to protect sensitive information.
- Perform regular audits to ensure security practices are compliant with industry standards.
- Provide technical support and guidance to users on how to maintain secure operations.
- Lead the development and updating of disaster recovery and incident response plans.
- Conduct detailed security assessments and investigations to analyze security risks.
- Stay current with the latest cybersecurity technologies and practices.
- Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical staff regarding security measures.
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