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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Security Operations Specialist - **Company:** Cboe Exchange, Inc. - **Location:** Chicago, IL, United States - **Experience:** Starter - **Salary:** $74,800.0 - $96,800.0 - **Contract:** Internship / Graduate position - **Skills:** User Authentication, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Query Languages, Identity and Access Management, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Python (Programming Language), Windows PowerShell, Red Team (Cyber Security), Kusto Query Language, Security Information and Event Management, SQL Databases, Scripting, Mitre Att&ck, Cyber Threat Analysis, Information Technology, Cybercrime, Purple Team (Cyber Security), Blue Team (Cyber Security) - **Published:** June 4, 2026 - **Apply:** https://cboe.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/External_Career_CBOE/job/Chicago-IL/Security-Operations-Specialist_R-4462 ## About the Role * 1-2 years of experience in system administration, IT, helpdesk or similar roles * A strong interest in cybersecurity operations and a desire to learn across multiple security domains * Foundational understanding of security concepts, such as networking, operating systems, authentication, and common attack techniques * Familiarity with at least some security tooling or data sources (e.g., logs, alerts, endpoint telemetry), gained through coursework, labs, internships, or self-study * Analytical thinking skills and the ability to follow structured investigative processes * Curiosity and persistence when researching unfamiliar behaviors or technologies * Strong written and verbal communication skills, including clear documentation of findings * Ability to work effectively in a team-based, fast-paced operational environment * Bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, information technology, or a related field - or equivalent practical experience You'll really stand out with: * Hands-on experience from internships, labs, home projects, capture-the-flag (CTF) exercises, or security competitions * Exposure to scripting or query languages (e.g., basic Python, PowerShell, KQL, SQL, or similar) * Familiarity with attacker techniques or frameworks such as MITRE ATT&CK * Demonstrated interest in threat hunting, detection engineering, or red teaming through self-directed learning * Strong documentation habits, including writing clear investigation notes or technical summaries * A growth mindset and eagerness to rotate across different security functions before specializing * Relevant entry-level certifications (e.g., Security+, Blue Team Level 1, or similar), though not required ## Description The Security Operations Specialist is an entry-level, hands-on role within the Security Operations organization, designed to develop well-rounded security practitioners through exposure to the full spectrum of cybersecurity operations. This role supports and contributes to monitoring, detection, incident response, threat intelligence, threat hunting, red teaming, and insider threat programs, while building strong technical and analytical foundations. Thee Security Operations Specialist operates as a generalist, gaining experience across people, process, and technology to understand how modern security operations function as an integrated system. This role works closely with senior analysts, engineers, hunters, and red team operators, learning through direct participation, mentorship, and structured progression. In this role you'll be responsible for: * Monitoring and triaging security alerts across SIEM, EDR, email security, cloud, and identity platforms * Performing initial analysis and investigation of security events, escalating incidents as appropriate * Assisting with incident response activities, including evidence collection, timeline development, and documentation * Supporting threat hunting efforts by executing queries, validating hypotheses, and documenting findings * Contributing to detection engineering by testing, tuning, and helping maintain detection rules and alerts * Assisting red team and purple team activities through log review, detection validation, and exercise support * Supporting threat intelligence workflows, including indicator research, enrichment, and operationalization * Participating in DLP and insider threat monitoring, helping identify potential data misuse or policy violations * Documenting procedures, playbooks, and lessons learned to improve operational consistency * Collaborating with engineering and operations teams to improve alert quality, visibility, and response outcomes * Participating in on-call or shift-based SOC coverage as part of a team-based rotation, At Cboe, we are committed to providing a competitive, transparent, and market-informed total rewards program. The anticipated base salary range for this role is $74,800-$96,800, with actual compensation determined by job-related factors such as skills, relevant experience, education, internal alignment, and location. This role may also be eligible for annual incentive compensation and, where applicable, participation in Cboe's long-term equity programs. ## Related Videos - [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers) - [Fighting the Next Wave of Cybercrime](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100331-fighting-the-next-wave-of-cybercrime) - [JavaScript? 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