Junior Security Analyst

The University of Chicago, through its Center for Translational Data Science (CTDS), invites applications for a Junior Security Analyst. This entry level role supports daily security operations, vulnerability management, incident response, and security projects on large scale data platforms such as GDC and Gen3, with opportunities to grow within the security practice. The position is based in Chicago, IL with a hybrid work arrangement.

Responsibilities

• Triage and address day to day security tickets and events.
• Support the vulnerability management lifecycle to identify, track, and remediate risks.
• Assist with basic incident response activities, monitoring, log analysis, and reporting.
• Develop and maintain simple Python scripts to automate routine security tasks.
• Contribute to security projects, including the transition to a zero trust network access model.
• Provide support for gathering governmental reporting paperwork and compliance documentation.
• Under close supervision, perform basic technical steps to protect information systems and identify potential hardware or software deficiencies on assets such as web servers, mail servers, routers, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems.
• Begin learning fundamental security testing to uncover common vulnerabilities, including web related issues and improper configurations.
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Requirements

• Education: Vocational training, apprenticeships, or equivalent experience in a related field; a four year degree is not typically required.
• Work Experience: Less than two years of experience in a related discipline.

Technologies

• Python

Benefits

• Health benefits
• Retirement benefits
• Paid time off

Department

BSD CTD - Security

About the Department

The Center for Translational Data Science (CTDS) at the University of Chicago advances translational data science to address biology, medicine, healthcare, and environmental challenges. The department aims to enable researchers with ready access to data and tools that support data driven discoveries, fostering scalable ecosystems and collaborative research on large-scale data commons.

Job Summary

CTDS seeks a motivated Junior Security Analyst who is committed to information security. In this hands on, entry level position, you will help protect multi petabyte scale data on platforms like GDC and Gen3 data commons while collaborating with cross functional teams. The role emphasizes learning and mentorship to develop as a well rounded security practitioner.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Vocational training, apprenticeships, or equivalent experience in a related field; typically not requiring a four year degree.
• Work Experience: Knowledge and skills developed through less than two years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Associate or bachelor’s degree in progress within cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field.
• Experience: Foundational understanding of basic security principles and IT operations.
• Experience: Familiarity with Python and an interest in strengthening scripting abilities.

Preferred Competencies

• Strong willingness to learn, ask questions, and adapt to new challenges.
• Ability to respond to changing priorities and operate effectively in a dynamic, demand driven environment requiring flexibility and responsiveness.
• Capacity to build trust and collaborate with cross functional teams.
• Ability to communicate information clearly and concisely in writing and verbally.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.

Working Conditions

Hybrid office and remote work arrangement.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (preferred)

Job Family

Information Technology

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Pay Range

$24.04 - $31.25

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected characteristics. For more information, see the Universitys Notice of Nondiscrimination.