Cybersecurity Analyst I

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Arlington, TX

1d • Remote

About The Position

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals.

The Cybersecurity Analyst I performs entry-level cybersecurity work in support of DFPS's mission to protect children, the elderly, and people with disabilities from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This role helps ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of agency information systems in accordance with applicable laws, security best practices, and agency policies.
This position provides broad exposure to multiple cybersecurity disciplines, including security operations, governance and compliance, vulnerability management, incident response, digital forensics, and security architecture. Working alongside experienced analysts and specialists across various teams, you'll gain practical, hands-on experience across the cybersecurity domain while making meaningful contributions to our security program. This developmental opportunity allows early-career professionals to discover their strengths, build foundational skills, and shape their career trajectory in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
The Cybersecurity Analyst I is expected to work collaboratively with team members from a positive, proactive, mission-first perspective.
This is a full-time position (40 hours/week), 100% telework within Texas. Candidates must maintain personal Wi-Fi and webcam capabilities during work hours. Work outside regular hours may occasionally be required. Travel to Austin office(s) may be required. Works under moderate supervision with considerable opportunities for initiative and independent judgment.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in, or graduated from, an accredited college or university with major coursework in cybersecurity, information technology security, networking, computer engineering, computer information systems, computer science, management information systems, or a related field.
• Experience with cybersecurity activities such as CTF, THM, home labs, or other events.
• Experience in foundational cybersecurity topics such as security operations, governance and compliance, vulnerability management, incident response, digital forensics, and security architecture
• Basic understanding of network infrastructure components (firewalls, routers, switches, wireless)
• Familiarity with operating systems (Windows, Linux) and CLI navigation
• Foundational knowledge of cloud computing concepts (AWS, Azure, etc.)
• Basic scripting ability in at least one language (Python, PowerShell, Bash)
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles and the CIA triad
• Familiarity with common attack vectors and defense strategies
• Basic knowledge of incident response lifecycle
• Awareness of major cybersecurity frameworks (NIST, CIS, ISO 27001)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with keen attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to translate technical concepts for both technical and non-technical audiences
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
• Collaborative mindset with ability to work across multiple teams
• Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple priorities

Nice To Haves

• Industry-recognized certification related to cybersecurity (SANS, ISACA, ISC², CompTIA, etc.) is a plus but not required. The ability to complete certification within one (1) year is required.
• Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions
• TryHackMe, HackTheBox, or similar platforms
• Personal cybersecurity home lab projects
• Portfolio of security projects or research
• Boot camps, internships, or volunteer cybersecurity work

Responsibilities

• Monitor information systems for security events and anomalies using SIEM, IDS/IPS, and log management platforms
• Assist in triaging and analyzing security alerts and potential incidents
• Support continuous security monitoring activities and threat detection efforts
• Assist with security policy and procedure reviews and updates
• Support compliance assessments against frameworks such as NIST CSF, NIST 800-53, and CIS Critical Controls
• Participate in security audits and documentation of control effectiveness
• Conduct vulnerability assessments using network discovery and scanning tools
• Assist in risk assessments and security posture evaluations
• Support remediation validation and tracking efforts
• Participate in incident response activities, including containment, investigation, and recovery
• Assist with digital forensics, root cause analysis, and malware analysis
• Document incident findings and lessons learned
• Evaluate network and system security configurations for best practices
• Assist in security tool implementation, configuration, and maintenance
• Support security architecture reviews and secure design initiatives
• Monitor and analyze emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and attack trends
• Contribute to threat intelligence sharing and awareness activities
• Research new security technologies and techniques

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members—saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that’s time off you’re actually paid for)
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance—at rates much lower than most private plans
• Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care
• Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level