Cyber Security Analyst (S-NET)

As a Cyber Security Analyst (S-NET) at Abile Group, your primary responsibilities include performing in-depth technical analyses of cybersecurity threats, with a focus on analyzing network and host activities and evaluating complex data sources. You'll deal with alerts from IDS/IPS systems, prepare detailed analysis reports, and develop security metrics to enhance the overall cybersecurity posture for our Intelligence Community customers.

To qualify for the Cyber Security Analyst (S-NET) role at Abile Group, candidates need 5 to 8 years of experience with a BS/BA degree or 3 to 5 years with an MS/MA. A required TS/SCI clearance, DoD 8570.1-M IAT Level II certification, and familiarity with tools like Cisco Firepower and Splunk are vital. Experience in a Security Operations Center (SOC) or Incident Response role is also essential.

A Cyber Security Analyst (S-NET) at Abile Group should be comfortable using various cybersecurity tools, including Cisco Firepower, Cisco Sourcefire, and network hunting technologies like Zeek/Bro. Familiarity with Splunk for log searches and dashboards, Wireshark for packet analysis, and scripting languages such as Python and PowerShell is also advantageous for effective performance in this role.

Abile Group places a strong emphasis on professional development for Cyber Security Analysts (S-NET) by providing opportunities for continuous learning and training in the field. Employees are encouraged to pursue certifications, engage in collaborative projects, and participate in performance management initiatives that foster growth and expertise in cybersecurity practices.

The work environment for a Cyber Security Analyst (S-NET) at Abile Group is dynamic and collaborative, often involving team-focused problem-solving and knowledge sharing. With a commitment to maintaining the highest cybersecurity standards, analysts work in a supportive atmosphere where teamwork, mentorship, and professional growth are prioritized, all while directly impacting the security of our national interests.

In responding to a potential security breach, begin by gathering all relevant data, including network logs and IDS/IPS alerts. Analyze the indicators of compromise, assess the extent of the breach, and ensure to document every step thoroughly. Your answer should also reflect a structured approach to incident response, highlighting your experience with similar scenarios.

Symmetric encryption uses a single key for both encryption and decryption, making it faster but potentially less secure if the key is compromised. Asymmetric encryption, on the other hand, uses a pair of keys - a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption, enhancing security. Make sure to communicate real-world implications of both in your answer.

My experience with intrusion detection systems involves setting up and managing IDS/IPS technologies, analyzing alerts generated, and correlating those with data from various sources to detect potential threats. Highlight specific tools like Cisco Sourcefire or Snort that you have successfully utilized in previous roles.

I regularly monitor cybersecurity news sources, participate in relevant forums, and collaborate with industry peers to stay informed about emerging threats. Subscribing to threat intelligence feeds and engaging in continuous learning through courses and certifications also helps me stay ahead of the curve.

I've developed comprehensive security incident reports that include an analysis of the event, potential damage assessment, and recommendations for prevention. It's crucial that these reports are actionable and well-documented, allowing for future learning opportunities for the team.

I employ a combination of packet capture analysis using tools like Wireshark and netflow analysis to identify patterns or anomalies. My methodology involves both statistical analysis and behavior assessments of network traffic to detect potential intrusions effectively.

I'm proficient in Python and PowerShell, which I use to automate data collection, conduct network analysis, and streamline reporting processes. Discuss specific examples where scripting improved efficiency in your workflows, showcasing your technical skills.

A false positive in security alerts occurs when the system incorrectly identifies a benign event as a threat. It's crucial to minimize false positives to reduce alert fatigue and ensure that actual threats are prioritized. Discuss methods you've used to tune detection systems to lower false positive rates.

I prioritize security tasks by evaluating the potential impact and urgency of each situation. I use risk assessment frameworks to assign priority levels, ensuring critical vulnerabilities are addressed promptly, and communicate effectively with my team to manage workloads.

I have extensive experience conducting vulnerability assessments, including scanning systems for weaknesses and performing manual checks. I analyze the findings to provide actionable remediation strategies, keeping in mind industry best practices in cybersecurity.