Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst Expert

We have a position for a Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst Expert with one of our clients in Remote for an initial contract duration of 1 year 11 months. No third party candidates considered for this position.

The resource will be responsible for developing the States Medicaid Data Warehouse system security plan, supporting audits, and third-party assessments. The resource will focus on ensuring the States security posture meets compliance standards by actively participating in internal and external audits, reviewing third-party vendor security practices, and identifying potential risks to mitigate during assessments.

Job Responsibilities:

• Create and maintain System Security Plans for the Client Data Warehouse.
• Develop standard operating procedures, controls-related documentation, and other required security documents.
• Prepare for audits: Gather necessary documentation, review security controls, and address any identified gaps before an audit occurs.
• Collaborate with auditors: Provide access to systems and information, answer questions about security practices, and explain control implementation details.
• Collaborate with the State team to prepare for audits and internal assessments.
• Responding to audit findings: Analyzing audit results, developing remediation plans, and tracking progress on addressing identified issues.
• Third-party vendor risk assessment: Evaluating the security posture of third-party vendors by reviewing their security policies, procedures, and controls.
• Identifying potential security risks associated with vendor relationships.
• Communicate security concerns to vendors and work with them to implement necessary security improvements.

Required Credentials and Experience:

• Expertise in security frameworks, including NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST 800-53, and other industry standards such as ISO 27001, PCI DSS, and CIS Controls.
• Experience in developing System Security Plans (SSPs) aligned with NIST guidelines.
• Strong ability to identify, analyze, and prioritize security risks, along with a solid understanding of audit methodologies and compliance reporting requirements.
• Broad understanding of network security, system administration, application security, vulnerability management, and data protection technologies.
• Experience interpreting vulnerability assessment reports and remediating security findings.
• Ability to effectively communicate security risks and recommendations to both technical and non-technical audiences, including leadership.
• Minimum of seven years in IT security roles, with a preference for candidates who have held management or leadership positions.
• Bachelors degree in cybersecurity, computer science, information technology, or a related field.

Preferred Credentials and Experience:

• Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
• Experience in MARS-E security guidelines from CMS.