Associate Cybersecurity Analyst

About the role

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology, to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, and data they need to feel their best. As an Associate Cybersecurity Analyst on the Cybersecurity Incident Response Team (CIRT), you will play a vital role in protecting and defending our enterprise network, systems, and data from cyber threats and unauthorized access. Operating in a team-oriented, 24/7/365 Tier 1 Cybersecurity Incident Response team, you will monitor work queues, triage security alerts, and identify potential network intrusions and malicious behaviors. This role offers an exciting opportunity to leverage enterprise-approved AI tools and modern security technologies to streamline analysis, automate repetitive workflows, and accelerate threat response.

You will enjoy the flexibility to telecommute* from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges.

Responsibilities

• Monitor work queues for alerts of potential network threats, intrusions, and/or compromises
• Assess the validity and scope of cybersecurity alerts to determine if they are actionable
• Confirm the accuracy of alerting information, identify malicious behaviors
• Leverage enterprise-approved AI tools to enhance productivity and innovation by streamlining workflows and automating repetitive tasks
• Escalate verified security incidents to the proper response and remediation teams in a timely manner
• Efficiently document triage details, sources of information, and technical findings for incident response
• Evaluate emerging security trends to inform solution design and strategic defense innovations
• Collaborate as part of a 24/7/365 Tier 1 Cybersecurity Incident Response team, to support continuous enterprise threat monitoring, incident detection, and response operations

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, or any related technical field
• Any one active industry certification in cybersecurity (such as: CompTIA Security+, CySA+, CompTIA SecurityX, GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), Certified SOC Analyst (CSA), GSEC, CEH, CCNA Cyber Ops, or similar)
• 6+ months of experience in a Dedicated Security Operations Center (SOC) or a security incident response team
• 6+ months of experience utilizing Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems or security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR) platforms
• 6+ months of experience with any one of the security principles related to major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)

Qualifications

• 6+ months of professional work, internship, or equivalent project experience in cybersecurity, IT support, network analysis, or security monitoring
• Foundational understanding of fundamental security and network concepts, including TCP/IP, operating systems (Windows/Linux), ports, and protocols
• Foundational knowledge of industry-recognized analysis frameworks (such as MITRE ATT&CK, Cyber Kill Chain, NIST, or Diamond Model)
• Experience utilizing modern software tools, digital automation, or productivity applications to manage tasks and optimize workflow efficiency
• Willingness and ability to work as part of a 24/7/365 Tier 1 Cybersecurity Incident Response team, including participating in a rotating schedule with occasional shift work
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on clearly documenting technical details and recommendations
• Experience leveraging AI-assisted tools, machine learning features, or digital assistants to research threats, draft documentation, or accelerate incident analysis

Benefits

In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase, and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements).

Pay

The hourly pay for this role will range from $29 - $52 per hour based on full-time employment. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, and certifications.