Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst

Job Summary

The Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst supports 24/7/365 situational awareness and security operations across the CU Boulder campus and is an integral part of the University of Colorado Boulder’s Division of Public Safety. This position is responsible for the continuous monitoring of video safety systems, electronic access control systems, intrusion detection systems, and other security technologies within the SOC environment.

The SOC Analyst plays a key role in identifying, assessing, and raising physical security and safety-related threats in real time. The SOC Analyst serves as a critical support resource to Public Safety by providing accurate, timely information to support effective decision-making and coordinated response. This role requires maintaining a calm, vigilant presence during both routine operations and critical incidents, along with a high level of integrity, attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and a commitment to the safety and well-being of the university community.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

Division of Public Safety seeks to facilitate and coordinate a culture that supports the Boulder campus’ commitment to maintain the highest level of ethics, integrity, and safety in the conduct of its operations. We do this though services to enhance community safety, protect life and property, and foster safe, secure, and ethical practices.

The University of Colorado (CU) Boulder is one of America's leading research universities and the flagship of the CU System. As a comprehensive public doctoral Research University, CU Boulder is a member of the Association of American Universities and is classified as an R1 University. The university has nine schools and colleges offering over 150 academic programs and enrolling 35,000 degree-seeking undergraduate and graduate students.

At CU Boulder, we believe in supporting each other and valuing everyone who is part of our community. Our values are expected of all Buffs and lead our actions in the classroom, on campus and in our community. At CU Boulder, we commit to building a more diverse and inclusive campus community. We value different backgrounds, identities and perspectives and believe that engagement with a wide range of ideas and viewpoints can help students learn and grow.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Campus Safety Systems Analysis & Oversight

• Analyzes live data streams from campus-wide camera systems, access control platforms, alarm systems, and related technologies to identify anomalies, emerging risks, or indicators of potential safety concerns. Exercises professional judgment to determine appropriate interpretation and response.

Incident Recognition & Escalation

• Evaluates security-related information to assess severity, credibility, and potential impact. Determines appropriate escalation pathways and coordinates notification to law enforcement, emergency response, or designated campus officials in accordance with established protocols and professional discretion.

Incident Analysis & Documentation

• Develops comprehensive incident records and analytical reports that document system activity, observations, and actions taken. Ensures documentation supports investigative review, compliance requirements, and institutional accountability.

Access Control Operations & Decision Support

• Applies policy-based judgment to assess access-related alerts and requests. Verify authorization, evaluates risk considerations, and coordinates access decisions with designated authorities in alignment with institutional standards and procedures.

Technology & Operational Coordination

• Coordinates with Division of Public Safety partners, including internal and external response agencies, to support day-to-day operations and incident response.

Operational Readiness & Risk Awareness

• Performs structured operational assessments of SOC technologies and workflows. Identifies potential vulnerabilities, system irregularities, or performance concerns and initiates appropriate follow-up actions to maintain operational readiness.

Information Handling & Compliance Stewardship

• Exercises discretion in the handling of sensitive and confidential information in compliance with university policy and applicable regulatory requirements, including FERPA, HIPAA, and the Clery Act. Demonstrates professional accountability in information governance.

Analytical Communication & Professional Reporting

• Synthesizes information from multiple sources, evaluates credibility, and identifies patterns, behaviors, and risk indicators. Communicates findings through clear, concise, and actionable briefings and written reports to support informed decision-making.

Operational Coordination with Communications Center

• Provides situational and operational coordination support to the Communications Center during high-impact incidents or periods of elevated activity. Applies judgment to relay time-sensitive information through authorized communication channels in accordance with established command structures and guidance.

What You Should Know

Standard business hours, M-F, with occasional need to work outside these hours during periods of special events, emergency, or crisis management. The position may occasionally be eligible to work in a hybrid modality, but due to the nature of the work, it should be expected that this role will work primarily onsite within the SOC.

What We Can Offer

Starting salary range is $65,500 - $75,000.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be game-changing. Be willing. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in security, criminal justice, emergency management, or a related field.
• Minimum of One year of related professional experience.
• Proficiency with video management systems (e.g., Genetec, Avigilon, Milestone), electronic access control, and/or incident management platforms.

What You Will Need

• Ability to maintain focus and situational awareness during extended periods of monitoring.
• Possesses strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey clear, concise, and accurate information under pressure.
• Situational awareness and critical thinking.
• Integrity and discretion with sensitive information.
• Calm and professional demeanor under stress.
• Multi-tasking and prioritization in dynamic environments.
• Commitment to public service and campus safety.

What We Would Like You to Have

• Familiarity with physical security technologies, including camera analytics, intrusion detection, and panic alarm systems.
• Experience in a university, hospital, or campus public safety environment.
• Working knowledge of Clery Act reporting requirements and incident categorization.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. A current resume.
2. A cover letter that specifically tells us how your background and experience align with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position.

We may request references at a later time.

Please apply by March 15, 2026, for consideration.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Essential Services

This position is designated “essential/critical services.” The incumbent is required to respond to requests for work during campus emergencies (snow, wind, rain, flood and any other natural or man-made event) and report to work for regularly assigned shifts during emergency campus closures.