Jr. Security Analyst

Job Title: Junior Security Analyst Location: Remote Department: Information Security Reports To: Security Operations / Information Security Manager Employment Type: Contract-to-hire Job Summary The Junior Security Analyst supports the organization’s security operations by monitoring security events, assisting with incident response, and helping maintain a strong security posture across endpoints, identities, and cloud services. This role is ideal for someone early in their security career who has hands-on experience with Microsoft Defender , communicates clearly with both technical and non-technical audiences, and is eager to grow in a collaborative, hybrid environment. Key Responsibilities Security Operations & Monitoring • Monitor and triage security alerts from Microsoft Defender and related security tooling. • Assist with investigation of endpoint, identity, and cloud security events. • Escalate potential security incidents to senior analysts following documented procedures. • Help validate alerts and reduce false positives through analysis and documentation. Incident Response Support • Participate in incident response activities, including evidence collection, documentation, and follow-up tasks. • Assist with containment and remediation efforts under the guidance of senior security staff. • Support post-incident reviews and lessons learned documentation. Communication & Collaboration • Clearly document security findings, incidents, and remediation steps. • Communicate security issues in a professional, easy-to-understand manner to IT teams and business stakeholders. • Work closely with IT, Help Desk, and Infrastructure teams to resolve security-related issues. • Provide timely updates on alert status and investigation progress. Security Hygiene & Continuous Improvement • Assist with maintaining endpoint security baselines and security best practices. • Help review and improve security processes, runbooks, and documentation. • Stay current on common security threats, attacker techniques, and Microsoft security platform updates. Required Qualifications • 1–2 years of experience in IT, security operations, SOC, or a related role . • Hands-on experience with Microsoft Defender (endpoint, identity, or cloud). • Strong written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to document technical issues clearly and accurately. • Basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts such as malware, phishing, endpoint security, and incident response. • Ability to work in a hybrid environment with on-site presence in Birmingham, Alabama. Preferred Qualifications • Experience working with Microsoft security tools beyond Defender. • Familiarity with basic security frameworks or concepts (e.g., NIST). • Experience working with ticketing or incident tracking systems. • Security-related certifications or coursework (e.g., Security+, Microsoft security fundamentals). Key Skills & Competencies • Microsoft Defender alert review and investigation • Clear, professional communication • Attention to detail and documentation • Willingness to learn and take feedback • Team-oriented mindset Apply tot his job Apply To this Job