Senior Cybersecurity Operations Analyst

Protect what matters. Hunt threats. Drive outcomes.

As a Senior Cybersecurity Operations Analyst at DEFEND, you'll be trusted to lead investigations, uncover emerging threats, reduce cyber risk, and help our customers strengthen their security posture. You'll work alongside some of New Zealand's most experienced cybersecurity professionals while shaping the future of managed security services for organisations across the country.

Why this role matters 

You’ll be at the heart of protecting critical environments, translating complex risks into clear action, and turning insight into stronger, smarter security. 

What you’ll do 

• Own end-to-end vulnerability management across infrastructure, endpoints, and applications 

• Identify, prioritise, and communicate risk—from everyday exposures to zero-day threats 

• Conduct proactive threat hunting using modern query languages (KQL, CQL) 

• Investigate and respond to real-world security incidents across identity, endpoint, and network layers 

• Automate security operations using Python, PowerShell, Bash, and/or emerging AI techniques 

• Partner with stakeholders to drive remediation and risk reduction 

• Deliver high-quality reporting and insights that influence decision-making 

• Contribute to cloud security posture and hardening initiatives 

• Continuously improve playbooks, processes, and detection capability 

What you’ll bring 

• Experience with vulnerability management platforms (e.g. Qualys, CrowdStrike) 

• Solid grasp of risk prioritisation frameworks 

• Hands-on threat hunting and security operations expertise 

• Experience with SIEM, EDR, and modern security tooling 

• Scripting/automation skills (Python, PowerShell, or AI) 

• Confident communicator who can translate technical risk into business impact 

• A mindset geared toward curiosity, ownership, and continuous improvement 

What’s in it for you 

• Work with a team that lives the DEFEND Way: Understanding, Partnership, Ownership, Guardianship, Excellence 

• Deepen your expertise in large-scale risk and vulnerability management as well as automation 

• Influence how modern cyber defence is delivered 

• Clear pathways into senior engineering or leadership roles 

• Be part of a culture that values excellence, growth, and innovation 

The bottom line 

If you’re a cyber operator who thrives on solving complex problems, partnering with customers, and making a real impact, we want to hear from you. 

Please note this is an on-site role at a customer premises in Auckland or Wellington.