Cyber Security Specialist

Intermountain Farmers Association (IFA) is a regional farm supply cooperative with diverse operations including feed production, agronomy services, energy, and retail locations throughout the Intermountain West. We are seeking a qualified and motivated Cyber Security Specialist to join our Information Technology team at our corporate office in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Summary

The Cyber Security Specialist is responsible for protecting IFA's systems, networks, and data through proactive monitoring, vulnerability management, incident response, and security best practices. This role supports the development, implementation, and enforcement of cybersecurity policies and procedures while working closely with IT and business teams to reduce risk and strengthen the organization's security posture.

The Cyber Security Specialist will also assist in evaluating and implementing security controls for emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), helping ensure their use aligns with company policies, security standards, and business objectives. The ideal candidate is a technically skilled professional who can effectively balance operational security responsibilities with continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Safeguard company systems, networks, applications, and data by identifying and mitigating security risks.
• Monitor security alerts, logs, and events to detect and respond to potential threats and incidents.
• Conduct vulnerability scans and coordinate remediation efforts with IT staff and system owners.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and maintenance of cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures.
• Support the secure adoption and use of emerging technologies, including AI tools and services.
• Manage and maintain security technologies such as firewalls, endpoint protection, antivirus, EDR/XDR, and email security solutions.
• Perform periodic security audits, assessments, and reviews to identify vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
• Assist with incident response investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions.
• Support identity and access management processes, including user provisioning, permissions reviews, and multi-factor authentication.
• Maintain documentation, security reports, and compliance records.
• Deliver security awareness education and guidance to employees.
• Stay informed on cybersecurity trends, threats, and best practices through ongoing professional development.
• Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, and business partners to support security initiatives.
• Contribute to the overall success of the IT department and organization as needed.

Qualifications & Skills

• System administration and troubleshooting
• Network security principles and practices
• Vulnerability management and remediation
• Firewall administration
• Endpoint security technologies
• Incident response and threat analysis
• Information security policies and procedures
• Knowledge of network protocols and traffic analysis
• Experience with routers, switches, and network infrastructure
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Process improvement and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Security, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field; equivalent work experience may be considered.
• 2-5 years of cybersecurity, network security, system administration, or related IT experience.
• Security+ certification preferred; certification required within a reasonable timeframe after hire if not currently held.
• Experience with vulnerability scanning and remediation tools.
• Working knowledge of TCP/IP, common networking ports and protocols, OSI model, and defense-in-depth concepts.
• Experience analyzing logs, security events, and system activity during investigations.
• Familiarity with security technologies such as Antivirus, EDR/XDR, IDS/IPS, MFA, DLP, and SIEM platforms.
• Experience with Microsoft Windows environments, Microsoft 365, Active Directory, and endpoint management.
• Knowledge of cloud security concepts and modern security best practices.
• Familiarity with AI technologies and an understanding of associated security and data governance considerations is preferred.
• Experience with SIEM solutions such as Microsoft Sentinel, Splunk, Wazuh, QRadar, or similar platforms is preferred.
• Relevant certifications such as Security+, CySA+, SSCP, CASP+, CISSP, or GIAC certifications are a plus.

What We Offer

Benefits:

• IFA offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, vision reimbursement plan, generous 401K matching, life insurance, long-term disability, vacation time, sick time, paid holidays, employee discounts, as well many other incredible benefits
• Compensation will be based on experience and qualifications

IFA is an Equal Opportunity Employer