Associate Security Researcher

Role overview Support security research by applying systems administration experience to controlled testing environments and defensive analysis. This associate-level purple team role combines threat simulation and detection improvement, with mentorship toward deeper offensive security research.

Responsibilities - Set up and maintain research lab infrastructure and keep testing tools stable. - Help simulate threats and document detection gaps and potential defensive improvements. - Collect data, analyze logs, and perform initial vulnerability triage for senior researchers. - Maintain clear records of research findings, scripts, and internal technical documentation. - Review penetration test findings and reports for technical accuracy and useful remediation guidance. - Develop research skills through a structured learning path and ongoing mentorship.

Requirements - Background in systems administration or IT operations, with practical understanding of servers, networking, permissions, and logs. - Strong security fundamentals; relevant certifications may include Security+, CySA+, or GSEC, or progress toward OSCP. - Familiarity with penetration testing stages such as reconnaissance, scanning, and exploitation. - Must reside in the United States; candidates in Eastern or Central time zones are preferred for team scheduling. - A curious, methodical approach to understanding both how systems are compromised and how they can be defended.

Nice to have Automation experience with Python, Bash, or PowerShell; interest in cloud security across AWS, GCP, or Azure; or experience maintaining a home lab.

Benefits and work setup The listing includes mentorship, equity, retirement savings options, insurance, stipends for wellness, home-office needs and learning, plus paid time off and parental leave. Compensation and benefit details may vary by location.