Job Description: Competitive Range partners with the government to plan and deploy complex, IT-enabled, and mission-essential capabilities. Our goal is to help you develop and expand your professional capabilities while working on challenging, exciting projects in a collaborative, congenial environment. We are seeking a SOC Analyst Level 1 to actively participate in security operations by proactively monitoring systems, investigating alerts, and providing near-real-time cybersecurity status and reports to support timely decision-making for DoD operations. This entry-level role is ideal for candidates eager to develop expertise in cyber threat analysis, incident response, and security operations center (SOC) procedures. Key Responsibilities: + Proactively monitor cybersecurity events and provide near-real-time reports to enhance decision-making within DoD operations. + Investigate, analyze, and escalate security alerts according to established protocols and contractual SLAs. + Respond to SOC-generated alerts, supporting threat identification and risk mitigation strategies. + Participate regularly in SOC working group sessions, contributing insights and expertise. + Collaborate across organizational lines to ensure effective cybersecurity defense and threat response. + Develop specialized knowledge in cybersecurity disciplines, technologies, and security frameworks. + Assist in incident tracking, resolution, and reporting, ensuring adherence to DoD security compliance standards. + Maintain awareness of the cyber threat landscape, identifying potential vulnerabilities and risks. Required Qualifications: + Active Secret Clearance: TS preferred. + Education: + Bachelor's degree OR equivalent experience. + Experience: + 0-3 years of experience in cyber operations with a basic understanding of cybersecurity landscapes and common threat vectors. + Skills: + Fundamental knowledge of network security, system vulnerabilities, and incident response strategies. + Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess and respond to cybersecurity threats. + Effective communication skills, including preparing cybersecurity reports and operational briefings. Preferred Qualifications: + Familiarity with DoD security protocols, Risk Management Framework (RMF), and cybersecurity best practices. + Experience using SOC tools such as SIEM platforms, IDS/IPS systems, and endpoint detection solutions. + Certifications such as Security+, CEH, or other DoD-approved cybersecurity credentials.