Security Consultant

Introduction

Information and Data are some of the most important organisational assets in today's businesses. As a Security Consultant, you will be a key advisor for IBM's clients, analysing business requirements to design and implement the best security solutions for their needs. You will apply your technical skills to find the balance between enabling and securing the client's organisation with the cognitive solutions that are making IBM the fastest growing enterprise security business in the world.

Your role and responsibilities

Summary:

The Security Consultant specializing in Cloud Security Services is responsible for providing expert advice and implementation support to clients on all aspects of cloud security. This role involves assessing cloud environments, identifying security risks and vulnerabilities, designing and implementing secure cloud architectures and solutions, and ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations. The consultant acts as a subject matter expert, helping organizations leverage the benefits of cloud computing securely.

• Cloud Security Assessments: Conduct thorough security assessments of clients' existing and planned cloud environments, identifying vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and areas for improvement.
• Cloud Security Architecture and Design: Design and architect secure cloud solutions, including network security, data protection, identity and access management (IAM), and security monitoring for various cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP, etc.).
• Security Solution Implementation: Assist with the selection, configuration, and deployment of cloud-native and third-party security tools and services (e.g., cloud firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, SIEM in the cloud, data loss prevention, key management services).
• Identity and Access Management (IAM): Develop and implement secure IAM strategies for cloud environments, including federation, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and role-based access control (RBAC).
• Data Protection: Design and implement data encryption solutions (at rest and in transit), data masking, and other data protection mechanisms in the cloud.
• Security Monitoring and Logging: Architect and implement security monitoring and logging solutions in the cloud, integrating with SIEM systems and other security analytics platforms.
• Incident Response in the Cloud: Develop and assist in the implementation of cloud-specific incident response plans and procedures. Provide technical support during cloud security incidents.
• Compliance and Governance: Advise clients on relevant cloud security standards, frameworks (e.g., NIST CSF, CSA CCM), and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS) as they apply to cloud environments. Assist with compliance audits.
• DevSecOps Integration: Promote and assist in integrating security practices into the DevOps pipeline for cloud-native applications.
• Vulnerability Management in the Cloud: Conduct and manage vulnerability assessments and penetration testing specifically for cloud resources.
• Policy and Procedure Development: Develop and document cloud security policies, standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Security Awareness Training (Cloud-Focused): Develop and deliver training programs to educate client personnel on cloud security best practices and shared responsibility models.
• Technical Reporting and Documentation: Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and documentation outlining assessment findings, recommendations, and implementation plans for cloud security solutions.
• Staying Current: Continuously learn about new cloud security threats, vulnerabilities, services, and best practices across different cloud platforms.
• Client Communication and Relationship Management: Effectively communicate complex cloud security concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders. Build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Collaboration: Work closely with client IT teams, development teams, and other stakeholders to implement and maintain cloud security controls.

• Experience: Significant experience (typically 3+ years) in information security roles with a strong focus on cloud security. Prior consulting experience is often preferred.

• Technical Skills:
  • Deep understanding of cloud computing concepts and architectures (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS).
  • Hands-on experience with one or more major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
  • Strong knowledge of cloud-native security services and tools offered by these platforms.
  • Experience with security tools and technologies relevant to cloud environments (e.g., cloud firewalls, WAFs, CASB, CSPM).
  • Understanding of network security principles and their application in the cloud.
  • Knowledge of identity and access management (IAM) in cloud environments.
  • Familiarity with scripting and automation tools (e.g., Python, PowerShell, CloudFormation, Terraform).
  • Understanding of containerization and orchestration technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) and their security implications in the cloud.
  • Knowledge of application security principles and common cloud-specific vulnerabilities.

• Soft Skills:
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, specifically in the context of cloud security challenges.
  • Strong communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate cloud security risks and solutions clearly.
  • Strong interpersonal and client management skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • A strong understanding of security best practices and ethical considerations in the cloud.

• Master's Degree in a Relevant Field: A Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field can demonstrate a deeper theoretical understanding.
• Contributions to the Security Community: Active participation in security communities, publishing research, speaking at conferences, or contributing to open-source security projects related to the cloud.
• Experience in Specific Industries: Prior experience working with clients in specific industries (e.g., finance, healthcare) and understanding their unique cloud security requirements and compliance obligations.