Cybersecurity Advisor

Job Title: Cybersecurity Advisor
Location: Chicago, IL (occasionally be onsite) Job Type: Part-Time

Job description:

• Our client partner is launching a state-of-the-art Cyber Range in partnership with IBM X-Force to provide hands-on cybersecurity training and simulate real-world threat scenarios. We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Cybersecurity Advisor to guide the development, implementation, and operation of the cyber range, and ensure alignment with academic, industry, and workforce development goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Implementation & Setup

• Serve as the lead advisor for the implementation of the IBM X-Force Cyber Range platform
• Collaborate with IBM s technical team, internal IT staff, and academic leaders to ensure smooth deployment
• Provide technical and strategic input on infrastructure, equipment, and software requirements

Curriculum & Instructional Design Support

• Work closely with faculty to integrate cyber range exercises into cybersecurity and IT curricula
• Recommend and help design scenarios that reflect current threat landscapes and industry practices
• Align range content with national frameworks such as NIST NICE, CompTIA, CISSP, etc.

Workforce & Industry Engagement

• Assist in developing training programs for industry partners, first responders, and students
• Support grant initiatives and workforce development goals related to cybersecurity training
• Serve as a subject matter expert to connect academic programming with regional employer needs

Operations & Evaluation

• Advise on best practices for cyber range operations, maintenance, and user management
• Contribute to the development of operational protocols, safety/security policies, and access procedures
• Assist in tracking outcomes and effectiveness of training simulations for continuous improvement

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field
• 5+ years of professional experience in cybersecurity operations, threat analysis, or related areas
• Strong understanding of incident response, red/blue team exercises, and cybersecurity frameworks
• Experience with or exposure to cyber range platforms (IBM X-Force, Cyberbit, etc.)
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, especially in educational or training settings

Preferred:

• Master s degree or certifications such as CISSP, CEH, GCIH, or similar
• Experience in higher education or workforce training environments
• Knowledge of IBM X-Force Cyber Range platform specifically (or willingness to undergo training)
• Demonstrated ability to engage with diverse populations and foster inclusive learning environments