Security Analyst (Threat Detection)

About SpaceX

SpaceX is driven by the vision of advancing humanity's presence in the cosmos. The company is committed to developing groundbreaking technologies aimed at making life sustainable on Mars.

Role Overview

The Security Analyst in Threat Detection at SpaceX plays a crucial role in the frontline defense of the organization's cybersecurity infrastructure. This position involves analyzing, responding to, and mitigating threats aimed at SpaceX’s digital ecosystem. Given the company's high profile, it faces targeted attacks from state-sponsored and other adversaries intent on damaging its brand. Protecting sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of systems is essential to ensure mission success.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a primary responder within the Security Operations Center by recognizing, assessing, and addressing security alerts and anomalies.
• Lead investigations into security incidents from detection through root cause analysis and response efforts.
• Support evidence collection and collaborate closely with engineering teams to fortify systems and prevent recurring attacks.
• Develop and implement advanced detection capabilities aimed at countering sophisticated attacker tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
• Improve endpoint and network monitoring tools and enhance detection and response playbooks to safeguard SpaceX personnel, assets, and missions.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering, information technology, or related STEM field, or alternatively at least two years of professional experience in information security.
• Practical experience auditing operating systems including Linux, Windows, or macOS.
• Familiarity with tools used for collecting network and host-based data.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Insight into both traditional and emerging threat actor tactics across pre- and post-exploitation phases of cyberattack lifecycles.
• Understanding of incident response methodologies.
• Proficiency with SIEM tools such as Elastic or Splunk.
• Experience automating security processes with scripting languages.
• Exposure to reverse engineering, command and control (C2) exploitation, and general system/network forensic techniques.
• Knowledgeable about securing cloud infrastructures.
• Active participation in the security community through blogging, conference presentations, competitions (CTFs), or tool development.
• Relevant certifications such as SANS/GIAC, OSCP, or equivalents.

Additional Information

• The role requires flexibility to work extended hours and weekends when necessary.
• This position is strictly onsite in Hawthorne, California; remote or hybrid arrangements are not available.
• Travel to other SpaceX locations may occasionally be expected.

Compensation and Benefits

The annual base salary range varies by level: Level I Security Analysts earn between $95,000 and $115,000, whereas Level II Analysts earn between $110,000 and $130,000. Final salary offers depend on relevant experience, knowledge, and education.

Besides base salary, employees may qualify for stock options or long-term cash incentives, discretionary bonuses, and discounted stock purchase opportunities. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans like 401(k), disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, and a variety of other discounts and perks.

Employees accumulate approximately three weeks of paid vacation annually, plus at least ten paid holidays and paid sick leave in accordance with or exceeding legal requirements.

ITAR Compliance

• Applicants must meet U.S. Government export control requirements by being a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, asylee, or qualifying for appropriate Department of State authorizations.

Equal Opportunity Statement

SpaceX is committed to equal employment opportunity. Employment decisions are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to any protected status including race, religion, gender, ethnicity, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or disability status.

Applicants seeking the affirmative action plan or accommodations during the application process can contact the company directly.