Sr. SOC Engineer (Network Security)

Software Guidance & Assistance, Inc., (SGA), is searching for an Intermediate to Senior SOC Engineer (Network Security)for a Contract assignment with one of our premier Regulatory clients in Rockville, MD.

Candidate must be in the DMV area.
Shift 3 (11pm - 8am): Flexibility required for weekends - Prepping for rollout to 24x7 SOC by end of year)
90% Remote (Mostly working Remote but may need to go to the Rockville or Tysons Corner office in case of issues)

Responsibilities :

• Act as a point of contact between SOC and network engineering team
• Monitor and analyze network traffic using SIEM, IDS/IPS, and packet capture tools, including complex network security issues and attacks
• Lead incident response efforts for network-based threats and intrusions
• Design and implement secure network architectures and segmentation strategies
• Perform vulnerability assessments and penetration testing of network infrastructure
• Develop and refine detection rules, playbooks, and threat hunting procedures
• Collaborate with infrastructure teams to harden routers, switches, and cloud networks
• Conduct forensic analysis of network logs and packet data during investigations
• Mentor junior SOC analysts and contribute to knowledge sharing and training
• Stay ahead of emerging threats, attack vectors, and security technologies

Required Skills:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field
• Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of formal education for exceptional candidates
• 5+ years of experience in SOC operations and network security engineering
• Desired Certifications such as GNFA, CND, CISSP, CEH, GCIA, or CCNP Security

Technical Skills:

• Experience with network forensics and packet analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump)
• Strong understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/S, and other core protocols
• Hands-on experience with SIEM platforms (e.g., Splunk, Sentinel, QRadar)
• Proficiency with IDS/IPS systems, firewalls (e.g., Palo Alto, Fortinet), and VPN technologies
• Familiarity with cloud networking (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform) and hybrid environments
• Knowledge of threat intelligence platforms and integration into SOC workflows
• Familiarity with SDN, Zero Trust architectures, and NAC solutions
• Scripting skills (Python, PowerShell) for automation and tool customization

Additional Skills & Leadership:

• Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to mentor junior analysts and lead incident response efforts

SGA is a technology and resource solutions provider driven to stand out. We are a women-owned business. Our mission: to solve big IT problems with a more personal, boutique approach. Each year, we match consultants like you to more than 1,000 engagements. When we say let's work better together, we mean it. You'll join a diverse team built on these core values: customer service, employee development, and quality and integrity in everything we do. Be yourself, love what you do and find your passion at work. Please find us at .

SGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of Race, Color, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Religion, National Origin, Disability, Veteran Status, Age, Marital Status, Pregnancy, Genetic Information, or Other Legally Protected Status. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, and our services, programs, and activities. Please visit our company to request an accommodation or assistance regarding our policy.