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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Associate Principal, Cyber Defense - **Company:** The Options Clearing Corporation - **Location:** Chicago, IL, United States (Remote available) - **Experience:** Experienced - **Salary:** $112,700.0 - $186,900.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Windows, Active Directory, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Artificial Intelligence, Amazon Web Services, Data Analysis, Proxy Servers, Application Firewall, Microsoft Azure, Client Server Models, Cloud Computing, Cloud Engineering, Cyber Security, Computer Programming, Computer Networks, Linux, Intrusion Detection Systems, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols (LDAP), Log Analysis, Microsoft Visio, Nmap, Security Information and Event Management, Solaris (Operating System), Scripting, Google Cloud, In-Plane Switching (IPS), Prompt Engineering, Software Security, QRadar, Cyber Threat Analysis, Firewalls (Computer Science), Nessus, Cortex XSOAR Platform, Cyber Warfare, Operating System Security, Splunk, SentinelOne Expertise, Qualys, Vulnerability Analysis, Programming Languages - **Published:** July 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://diversityjobs.com/main/sendform/8/8/28176/1/17469236?backUrl=%2Fcareer%2F17469236%2FAssociate-Principal-Cyber-Defense-Illinois-Chicago ## About the Role The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary functions. * Proven team player will be working primarily with other staff members, on both long-term projects and rapid response under tight deadlines. * Team Leadership experience, taking initiative; providing and following through on solutions across various skillsets. * Knowledge and experience implementing controls based on security regulation (e.g., NIST Cyber Security Framework) is a plus. * Effective and excellent oral and written communication, analytical, judgment and consultation skills. * Ability to effectively communicate in both formal and informal review settings with all levels of management. * Ability to work with local and remote IT staff/management, vendors and consultants. * Ability to work independently and possess strong project management skills. Technical Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in: * Log analysis and security content development in SIEM solutions (Splunk, IBM QRadar, LogRhythm, etc.). * SOAR products such as Splunk SOAR, Cortex XSOAR, FortiSOAR, etc. SOAR playbook development experience is a plus. * Endpoint detection and response tools, e.g. CrowdStrike, SentinelOne, Microsoft Defender, etc. * Incident Response playbook development, managing security incident analysis and remediation. * Network-based preventative and detective technologies (IDS/IPS, firewalls, proxy servers) * Standard technical writing tools including MS Word, Excel, Project and Visio Familiarity with: * Vulnerability assessment tools (Qualys, Nessus, nmap, etc.). * Directory services, LDAP, and their inherent security (Active Directory, CA Directory, Entra ID). * Client/server platforms including Windows, Linux. * Operating system hardening procedures (Solaris, Linux, Windows, etc.) * Web Application Firewalls. * Cloud based security tools and techniques (AWS, Azure, GCP, etc.) Some experience: * Scripting and development activities to appropriately leverage Application Programing Interfaces (APIs) to optimize integrations between disparate security monitoring and analysis devices., * Minimum four years of information security experience, preferably in the financial services industry. * Hands-on security operations experience including interdisciplinary experience with three or more of the following: Cyber Threat Analysis, Incident Response, Application Security, Operating Systems Security, Cloud Engineering, Networking, Programming languages, AI Prompt engineering. * Technical experience and comprehensive knowledge of threat actor capabilities, intentions, methodologies, and motives. * Familiarity with computer network exploitation and network attack methodologies while maintaining an understanding of the relationship these activities have with the financial services industry and critical infrastructure. * Industry knowledge of leading-edge security technologies and methods. * Shift work and working in an on-call response capacity is required including availability for 24 x 7 on-call support responsibilities. * Previous project management experience is a plus. Certificates or Licenses: * Strongly prefer at least one of the following certifications: CISSP, GCIA, GCIH, CHFI, GCFA, CASP+. ## Description The Associate Principal, Cyber Defense is responsible for the in-depth analysis and response to security incidents escalated from Tier 1 analysts. This role involves investigating complex security events, identifying potential threats, and implementing measures to mitigate risks. The Tier 2 analyst plays a critical role in maintaining the security posture of the organization by leveraging advanced threat intelligence and incident response techniques. Primary Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each primary duty satisfactorily. Perform duties across several Cyber disciplines, activities may include: Security Monitoring: * Monitor security alerts and events from various security tools and technologies. * Perform advanced analysis of security logs, network traffic, and endpoint data. Incident Response: * Review and respond to security incidents escalated by Tier 1 analysts. * Conduct thorough investigations to determine the scope and impact of security incidents. * Implement containment, eradication, and recovery measures for confirmed incidents. * Document and report findings, actions taken, and lessons learned. Collaboration and Communication: * Work closely with threat intelligence team to enhance detection and response capabilities. * Collaborate with other security team members and IT staff to address security incidents. * Provide guidance and support to Tier 1 analysts on complex security issues. * Communicate effectively with stakeholders regarding security incidents and mitigation efforts. Continuous Improvement: * Participate in post-incident reviews to identify areas for improvement. * Stay current with the latest cybersecurity trends, threats, and technologies. * Contribute to the development and enhancement of SOC processes and procedures. ## Related Videos - [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker) - [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers) - [Docker exec without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1094-docker-exec-without-docker) - [What makes Cybersecurity different for critical infrastructure?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/571-what-makes-cybersecurity-different-for-critical-infrastructure) - [Cyber Sleuth: Finding Hidden Connections in Cyber Data](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/893-cyber-sleuth-finding-hidden-connections-in-cyber-data) - [The best of two worlds - Bringing enterprise-grade Linux to the vehicle](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/67-the-best-of-two-worlds-bringing-enterprise-grade-linux-to-the-vehicle) ## Related Articles - [9 Ways to Make Money Hacking](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/333-9-ways-to-make-money-hacking) - [Events like RSAC Get You CISOs. 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