IT Security Analyst

Catawba County Technology is recruiting for a highly skilled and forward-thinking IT Security Analyst to enhance, protect, and continually strengthen the County's cybersecurity posture. This position plays a critical role in safeguarding the County's data, hardware, software, and network infrastructure by monitoring for threats, implementing security solutions, and supporting countywide technology security initiatives.

We are seeking an analytical, detail-oriented professional who thrives in a dynamic environment, communicates effectively across technical and non-technical audiences, and is committed to staying ahead of emerging cybersecurity risks.

This position is required to be in the office. Remote/hybrid work may be available after 12 months of employment, based on performance and departmental needs.

• Support security across the entire network - infrastructure, applications, and web environments
• Provide technical guidance on security needs and best practices
• Monitor security tools, system logs, and alerts to identify and remediate threats
• Deploy patches, updates, and automation tools to maintain system integrity and security
• Collaborate with IT staff and departments to resolve security issues and strengthen systems
• Perform vulnerability scans and assist with incident response and light data forensics
• Implement security requirements for new installations, upgrades, and system replacements
• Maintain and update County security policies to meet State, Federal, and NIST standards
• Support internal and external audits and manage security-related 3rd-party relationships
• Deliver security training and awareness presentations to County employees

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Networking Technology, or related degree, and 3 years of experience in cybersecurity or networking technology; OR
• Associate's degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Networking Technology, or related degree, and 5 years of experience in cybersecurity or networking technology

• Knowledge of the NIST framework
• Knowledge of network structures and protocols related to security
• Knowledge of web application security
• Familiarity with scripting and the use of security tools to limit vectors and vulnerabilities
• Commitment to continuous learning in cybersecurity trends and best practices
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure
• Ability to explain security concepts to both technical and non-technical users
• Ability to troubleshoot complex issues and identify root causes
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Valid driver's license with a safe driving record (Driving is an occasional function of this position)
• This position is considered medium work, lifting up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.

Preferences:

• Cisco certifications
• COMPTIA Security +
• CISSP or other mid-level to advanced security certification

Catawba County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Catawba County Benefits

As of 7/1/2024:

You will find that Catawba County has one of the best benefits packages around. Our Human Resources staff are dedicated to keeping in touch with trends in benefits on both a local and national level, listening to employees' suggestions regarding benefits, and continually reviewing to ensure our benefits package is of good quality and meets the needs of both our employees and our organization. Available benefits include:

Health Care

• Health: For a small bi-weekly premium, employees may choose between a traditional (co-pay) health plan and a high deductible health plan coupled with a Health Savings Account (HSA). Coverage may also be purchased for spouse, child(ren), or family.
• Dental Insurance: At no cost to full-time employees, the County covers preventive, routine, and non-routine care. Coverage for the same benefits may also be purchased for spouse, child(ren) and family. In addition, a $2,000 benefit toward orthodontia coverage is provided for children up to age 19.
• Vision Care: Coverage is available, at group rates, for employee and dependents, with 2 plan options to choose from.
• Supplemental critical care and accident insurance plans: These optional coverage plans are available at a nominal cost.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Pre-tax accounts which can be used to pay for qualified out-of-pocket medical, dental, vision expenses.

Employee Wellness

• Employee Health Clinic (EHC): An employee medical clinic, available to all County employees, which operates 40 hours a week. Services provided include acute care, first aid, evaluation and care for workers' compensation injuries, pre-employment screenings, health education, and behavioral health referrals. Services offered both in person and through telehealth. Acute care available to employee's children ages 5-17 regardless of health insurance coverage and for employee's adult children (ages or employee's spouse if covered on the county's health insurance.
• Wellness: The County recognizes the importance of our health and well-being. We maintain a very proactive and effective Wellness Program, including reimbursement and discounts for gym membership, incentives for physical activity, on-site nutrition counseling, free exercise opportunities, wellness education and more.
• Employee Assistance Program: Counseling services are available to all County employees and immediate family members in the home. Services are provided in a private and confidential setting (in-person or virtually). The County provides coverage for the first six visits.

Work Life Balance

• Annual Leave: Full-time employees earn from 10-21 days annually based on years of service. Service credit from other NC and Local Governments in the retirement system may be transferred to the County.
• Sick Leave: Full-time employees earn one day (8 hours) of sick leave per month. Sick leave from other NC and Local Governments in the retirement system may be transferred to the County.
• Holiday Leave: Throughout the year, 11 days of paid leave are provided in recognition of holidays.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Time off for activities that support our local schools.
• Continuing educational assistance.
• Discount tickets to recreational venues.
• Employee appreciation days/activities.
• Tax-free flexible spending account to pay for dependent care.

Financial Security

• Local Governmental Employees Retirement System: For employees assigned to work 20 hours per week or more in a benefitted position, participation in this program is automatic. Employees contribute 6% of their salary, which is tax deferred. After (5) years of creditable service, you become fully vested in the retirement system. Employees may also take advantage of individual and group retirement counseling through the Human Resources department.
• 401K: The County provides a 2% contribution plus an additional 1% match (up to 3% total contribution by the County). Our sworn law enforcement officers receive a flat 5% contribution to their 401k.
• Other Tax Deferred Programs: Other tax-sheltering programs are available through IRS Code 125 (Cafeteria Plan), and a 457 supplemental retirement plan (Deferred Compensation).
• Longevity Pay: After 5 years of creditable service, employees receive an annual longevity payment that is paid every year thereafter. This lump sum payment rewards employees for their length of service to Catawba County. The amount is based on years of service.
• Life Insurance: Death benefit equal to one times employee's annual salary with a minimum coverage amount of $25,000. Optional supplemental life insurance coverage is also available for both employee and dependents through payroll deduction at group rates.
• Short Term Disability: Available at no cost to employees, benefits are available after a 55-day waiting period.
• Long Term Disability: Available through payroll deduction at group rates.
• Eligibility for membership and financial services at State Employees Credit Union (SECU)/Local Government Federal Credit Union (LGFCU).