Associate Security Specialist - 2026

Lansing, MI

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

IBM Consulting Client Innovation Centers (CICs) are high-delivery environments where technologists work to build solutions for clients. The Associate Security Specialist role focuses on supporting the implementation of security solutions, monitoring threats, and contributing to security delivery teams.

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Responsibilities

Support security engagements by collecting and analyzing technical and business requirements with guidance from senior consultants
Assist with the monitoring, detection, and analysis of security threats and vulnerabilities
Contribute to the design, implementation, and support of security controls, tools, and processes
Participate in security operations activities such as threat analysis, incident support, and remediation efforts
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to help integrate security solutions into client environments
Gain exposure to multiple platforms, tools, and architectures used in enterprise security environments
Build cybersecurity, consulting, and problem-solving skills through training, mentorship, and hands-on delivery experience
Work with functional and technical team members to help integrate packaged solutions into client business environments

Qualification

Required

Ability to work effectively in a technology-driven consulting environment where tools, platforms, and client needs evolve over time
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to approach complex tasks using structured, logical thinking
Ability to learn new systems and technologies quickly and apply them in a delivery setting
Comfortable working onsite in a collaborative, team-based environment
Familiarity with core network and security concepts, such as: Network design and basic networking principles, Authentication and authorization concepts, Encryption concepts and standards
Exposure to one or more cybersecurity domains through coursework, labs, projects, or internships, such as: Threat management or security operations, Identity and access management, Cloud or infrastructure security, Data or application security
Exposure to programming or scripting languages used to support security analysis or automation, such as Python, Java, C/C++, C#, Go/Golang, Ruby, or Bash, through coursework or projects
Familiarity with security or networking tools (e.g., vulnerability scanning, monitoring, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, or packet analysis), gained through academic work, labs, or self-study
Exposure to cybersecurity fundamentals through coursework, academic projects, internships, or work experience
Ability to translate business or functional requirements into technical solutions, with guidance from senior team members
Comfortable working onsite in a collaborative, team-based environment
Strong willingness to learn, accept feedback, and continuously improve
Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field (Candidates with other degrees will be considered if they demonstrate equivalent technical skills.)

Preferred

Bachelor's Degree
Exposure to security operations centers (SOC) or incident response processes
Experience with security testing, automation, or scripting
Familiarity with cloud security concepts or environments
Experience working in Agile or structured project delivery teams
Experience collaborating with others on team-based software projects
Familiarity with generative AI concepts, including basic modeling approaches, responsible use, and ethical considerations, gained through coursework, projects, or self-study