Senior Data Security Specialist

Sun Life•Toronto, ON

4d•CA$90,000 - CA$140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Join a strategic, high-impact global team at Sun Life and lead the evolution of our enterprise database security posture. This is a pivotal technical leadership role where you'll design cutting-edge security solutions, drive security innovation, and directly influence how we protect critical data across the organization. Reporting to the Manager of Database Security and Data Protection, you'll be at the intersection of advanced threat detection, strategic security operations, and emerging insider threat defense.

Requirements

5+ years in cybersecurity or IT infrastructure roles, with demonstrated expertise in security engineering or operations
Strong foundation in Windows and Linux system administration, infrastructure design (storage, networking)
Hands-on experience with database security frameworks, governance, data protection policies, and compliance controls
Solid knowledge of database platforms (SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, RDS, NoSQL)
Practical experience with encryption technologies and cryptographic controls
Proven ability to conduct security investigations, perform forensic analysis, and execute remediation at scale
Working knowledge of security tools (Database Activity Monitoring, data encryption platforms)
Automation expertise: Proficiency in PowerShell and/or Python scripting; demonstrated ability to build security automation workflows
Cloud security experience: Hands-on knowledge of AWS, GCP, or Azure security controls and cloud infrastructure
As a condition of the role, the successful candidate must obtain a Government of Canada Reliability Status security clearance through Sun Life.

Nice To Haves

Experience with SIEM platforms (Splunk, QRadar) and User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) tools
Background in threat hunting or advanced security analytics
Familiarity with ServiceNow or security orchestration platforms

Responsibilities

Design, architect, and optimize enterprise-scale database security and data protection controls
Lead security gap analysis and drive strategic initiatives across global environments
Influence organizational security direction and establish best practices across regions
Conduct sophisticated investigations and deep-dive analysis of database security incidents (privileged access abuse, data exfiltration, suspicious authentication patterns)
Develop and enhance investigation workflows with advanced automation and SIEM/cloud platform integration
Identify emerging security trends, systemic risks, and data-centric threats—then recommend and implement solutions
Manage and optimize enterprise database activity monitoring infrastructure, policy frameworks, and lifecycle management
Administer sophisticated data protection platforms and security tools (patching, upgrades, optimization)
Drive operational excellence through automation and workflow optimization
Build trusted relationships with internal leaders, cross-functional teams, and security vendors
Lead innovation in insider threat detection and response capabilities
Mentor team members and foster a collaborative, forward-thinking security culture

Benefits

In addition to Base Pay, eligible Sun Life employees participate in various incentive plans, payment under which is discretionary and subject to individual and company performance.
We are proud to be a hybrid organization that offers our employees the choice and flexibility to work from both the office and virtually based on the needs of the business, our Clients and you!
Several work options are available and can be discussed throughout the selection process depending on the role requirements and individual needs.
We may use artificial intelligence to support candidate sourcing, screening, interview scheduling.
We understand the importance of a culture that fosters openness and inclusion.
We want you to be your most brilliant self.
That’s why we do everything we can to support your well-being and development.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute and collaborate across the organization with the support of your colleagues behind you and the guidance of leaders at every step.
Working in Tech, you will have the opportunity to have widespread impact across all levels of the organization.
By helping us find better and smarter ways of doing things, you will make a positive impact in the lives of our clients and colleagues and contribute to our meaningful purpose.
In Tech at Sun Life, you will be at the forefront of our transformation.
You will apply your curious mind, bold thinking, and creativity to evolve our offering and processes and shape the future of our industry.
You will be empowered to push boundaries and explore new ways of doing things to drive positive change.
Your unique perspective is exactly what we’re looking for.
Join a top employer for a brighter future.