Manager Cybersecurity

Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc.•San Diego, CA

6h•$113,200 - $141,500•Hybrid

About The Position

The Cybersecurity Manager is responsible for supporting Acadia’s day‑to‑day cybersecurity operations. This role actively monitors enterprise security tools, investigates alerts, and coordinates incident response activities with internal teams and third‑party security partners. The role supports the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of Acadia’s cybersecurity operations, with a strong emphasis on automation and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance detection, response, and operational efficiency. This Cybersecurity Manager owns Acadia’s vulnerability and exposure management programs and leads penetration testing, threat intelligence, threat hunting, and proactive risk identification efforts. Additionally, this role will partner with enterprise stakeholders to support organization‑wide AI and machine learning initiatives, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of AI systems. This role helps align cybersecurity practices with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and emerging risks associated with AI technologies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
Targeting 5 years of experience in cybersecurity and prior experience in Information Technology.
One or more industry‑recognized cybersecurity certifications required (e.g., Security+, SSCP, CCNP Security, CISSP, or equivalent).
Hands‑on experience with enterprise security tools and platforms, including SIEM, EDR, NDR/NTA, vulnerability and exposure management solutions, and SOAR technologies.
Experience conducting or supporting penetration testing and vulnerability assessments, and interpreting results to drive remediation.
Proficiency in scripting and automation using languages such as Python, PowerShell, or Bash, with the ability to develop and maintain tools that enhance security operations.
Foundational understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) concepts, particularly as applied to cybersecurity use cases such as anomaly detection, threat modeling, and analytics.
Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks and standards including NIST, CIS Critical Security Controls, and MITRE ATT&CK.
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex security issues and develop effective, risk‑based solutions.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
Task‑oriented and self‑directed, with the ability to prioritize workload, meet deadlines, and appropriately escalate issues.
Demonstrates a high level of attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Must be willing and able to travel both domestically and internationally.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry preferred.
An equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

Actively monitor and manage security tools and service providers to identify, investigate, and respond to security alerts in a timely and effective manner.
Own and continuously improve the vulnerability and exposure management program, including tooling, vendor coordination, scanning, penetration testing, and remediation tracking.
Lead threat hunting activities and manage the threat intelligence program to proactively identify, analyze, and mitigate emerging threats.
Collaborate cross-functionally with internal and external teams to strengthen enterprise security posture and drive timely remediation of identified risks
Design, develop, and maintain automation scripts and SOAR workflows to improve efficiency across log analysis, alert triage, incident response, and reporting.
Integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) capabilities into cybersecurity operations to enhance threat detection, anomaly identification, and risk analysis.
Monitor and manage the Information Security ticket queue, ensuring timely resolution or escalation of incidents in accordance with defined service-level objectives (SLOs).
Conduct and support security incident response and forensic investigations, including analysis, documentation, and evidence handling.
Support cybersecurity audits, assessments, and regulatory compliance activities.
Assist with the maintenance, documentation, and annual testing of the Cyber Incident Response Plan.
Lead or contribute to cybersecurity initiatives, continuous improvement efforts, and projects.
Support the enterprise‑wide security of AI/ML systems, including model integrity, data protection, and access controls AI/ML‑related assets.
Other responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

Competitive base, bonus, new hire and ongoing equity packages
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Employer-paid life, disability, business travel and EAP coverage
401(k) Plan with a fully vested company match 1:1 up to 5%
Employee Stock Purchase Plan with a 2-year purchase price lock-in
15+ vacation days
13 -15 paid holidays, including office closure between December 24th and January 1st
10 days of paid sick time
Paid parental leave benefit
Tuition assistance