Junior Cyber Operations Analyst

The Aerospace Corporation•Colorado Springs, CO

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a motivated cybersecurity professional to serve as a Junior Cyber Operations Analyst (Information Security Staff II). In this entry-level to early-career role, you will be responsible for monitoring security events, triaging alerts, and supporting the Security Operations Center (SOC) in protecting our enterprise environments. You will work alongside experienced analysts to develop your skills in threat detection, log analysis, and incident response while contributing to the daily operations of our cybersecurity team. This position offers an excellent opportunity to launch your career in cybersecurity operations and gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge security technologies. You will join a team of dedicated cybersecurity professionals who are chartered with securing Aerospace's classified and unclassified enterprise IT environments and viewed as leaders within the aerospace community. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in Colorado Springs, CO.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Systems or equivalent field of study, or equivalent experience
1-3 years of relevant experience in cybersecurity, IT operations, or related technical fields
Basic understanding of network fundamentals including TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, and common protocols
Familiarity with Windows and Linux operating systems
Basic knowledge of cybersecurity concepts including firewalls, intrusion detection, antivirus, and authentication
Ability to follow documented procedures and escalation protocols
Eagerness to learn new technologies and security concepts
Willingness to work shift rotations including potential evenings, weekends, or holidays as operational needs require
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a US Secret security clearance, which is issued by the US government.
U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Entry-level certifications such as Security+, Network+, CySA+, or equivalent
Internship or academic experience in a SOC, security operations, or cybersecurity role
Hands-on experience with SIEM platforms (Splunk, QRadar, LogRhythm, etc.) through coursework or labs
Basic understanding of the MITRE ATT&CK framework or cyber kill chain
Familiarity with scripting or programming languages (Python, PowerShell, Bash)
Experience with packet capture analysis using Wireshark or similar tools
Participation in cybersecurity competitions, capture the flag (CTF) events, or cyber ranges
Coursework or self-study in digital forensics, incident response, or threat intelligence
Understanding of log analysis and common log sources (Windows Event Logs, Syslog, etc.)
Familiarity with ticketing systems and IT service management processes
Knowledge of compliance frameworks such as NIST or ISO standards
Active participation in cybersecurity communities, forums, or professional organizations
Demonstrated passion for cybersecurity through personal projects, home labs, or continuous learning initiatives
Previous experience in IT help desk, system administration, or network operations roles
Current and active Secret clearance

Responsibilities

Monitoring security alerts and events from SIEM platforms, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and other security tools
Performing initial triage of security alerts to determine if they represent legitimate security concerns or false positives
Conducting basic log analysis to investigate security events and gather relevant information for escalation
Documenting security events, creating incident tickets, and maintaining accurate records in ticketing systems
Escalating confirmed security incidents to senior analysts following established procedures and playbooks
Assisting with basic incident response activities under the guidance of senior team members
Learning to use security tools including SIEM, EDR, firewall management consoles, and log analysis platforms
Following standard operating procedures and playbooks to ensure consistent response to common security scenarios
Participating in shift rotations to provide continuous security monitoring coverage
Conducting basic research on security alerts, indicators of compromise, and threat intelligence to support investigations
Assisting with vulnerability scanning coordination and tracking remediation efforts
Supporting security awareness initiatives by identifying and reporting potential phishing attempts and suspicious activities
Maintaining situational awareness of current cybersecurity threats and trends through training and self-study
Participating in training sessions, tabletop exercises, and skill development activities
Collaborating with team members to improve processes and share knowledge
Contributing to team documentation efforts and lessons learned activities

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect