Network Security Analyst

Job Title: Network Security Analyst IILocation: Newport Beach CADuration: 06 Months (Potential for full time conversion)Note: Only local candidates and no H1B /No opt Position Description:This role is focused on analyzing, optimizing, and enhancing the effectiveness of the organization’s network security ecosystem. The analyst will leverage data across security platforms to identify trends, improve policy posture, and drive actionable recommendations. The ideal candidate brings a strong analytical mindset, hands-on experience with security tools, and a proactive approach to improving detection, response, and operational efficiency.How You’ll Help Move Us ForwardAnalyze data across network security platforms (firewalls, WAF, proxy, SIEM) to identify trends, gaps, and optimization opportunitiesPerform ongoing rule and policy reviews across security controls (e.g., firewall, WAF, proxy) to improve effectiveness and reduce noiseDevelop and refine use cases, alerts, and dashboards in Splunk to enhance visibility and detection capabilitiesTranslate security telemetry into actionable insights and recommendations for tuning policies and improving security posturePartner with engineering and operations teams to implement data-driven improvements and automation opportunitiesEvaluate alert fidelity and reduce false positives through tuning, correlation, and enrichment strategiesSupport incident investigations by analyzing logs, network traffic, and security events to determine root cause and impactBuild and maintain reporting that communicates security posture, trends, and key metrics to technical and non-technical stakeholdersIdentify and implement automation opportunities across security workflows to improve efficiency and response timesContribute to continuous improvement of security standards, processes, and best practicesMaintain clear and accurate documentation of analysis, findings, and recommended changesStay current with emerging threats, detection techniques, and security analytics best practicesThe Experience You Bring5+ years of experience in a Cybersecurity / Network Security Analyst role within an enterprise SOC or operations environmentStrong hands-on experience with Splunk (or similar SIEM) including query development (SPL), alerting, and dashboard creationProven experience in threat hunting and detection engineering using network and security telemetryDeep familiarity with Palo Alto firewalls, Zscaler, and Imperva (or similar WAF technologies)Experience performing policy tuning and rule optimization across network security controlsStrong understanding of network protocols, traffic analysis, and attack techniques (e.g., lateral movement, C2, exfiltration)Experience with tools such as FireMon, Backbox, RSA, SolarWinds, Wireshark, and ServiceNowFamiliarity with MITRE ATT&CK framework and applying it to detection coverage and threat huntingWorking knowledge of identity systems (Entra ID / Active Directory) and their integration with security telemetryScripting or automation experience (Python, PowerShell, or similar) for improving workflows and detectionsStrong analytical mindset with the ability to turn raw data into actionable security improvementsExperience working in distributed or hybrid team environmentsExcellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly present findings and recommendations to both technical and business stakeholdersRelevant certifications such as GSEC, GCIA, GCDA, CCSP, or CISSP preferred