Associate Security Researcher

Cobalt

. Set up security research environments .

Posted 10/31/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $55,000 - $70,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in systems administration and IT operations, with a strong understanding of security fundamentals and penetration testing methodologies. Capable of managing lab infrastructure, performing data collection and log analysis, and contributing to offensive security research.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Systems AdministrationPenetration Testing MethodologySecurity FundamentalsLog AnalysisAutomation with Python

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Data CollectionLog AnalysisVulnerability TriagingThreat SimulationTechnical AuthorshipQuality ControlDocumentation ManagementPenetration TestingSecurity ResearchInfrastructure Management

Tools & Technologies

AWSGCPAzurePythonBashPowerShell

Certifications & Qualifications

Security+CySA+GSECOSCP

Industry Keywords

Purple TeamHome Lab EnvironmentNetworkingPermissionsLogs

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AWSAzureCloudGoogle Cloud PlatformPython

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Set up security research environments
Manage lab infrastructure
Ensure research tooling is stable
Assist in simulating threats as part of Purple Team activities
Document detection gaps and defensive improvements
Perform data collection, log analysis, and initial vulnerability triaging
Support Senior Researchers
Maintain documentation of research findings, scripts, and internal wikis
Progress from foundational systems administration and support tasks into offensive security research
Review penetration testing findings and final reports for accuracy and actionable remediation guidance
Perform technical authorship and quality control for the TPM organization

Requirements

What you’ll need

Background in systems administration or IT operations
Understanding of servers, networking, permissions, and logs
Strong grasp of security fundamentals
Understanding of penetration testing methodology, including reconnaissance, scanning, and exploitation
Residing in the United States
Preference for candidates in EST or CST
Certifications such as Security+, CySA+, or GSEC, or working toward OSCP
Bonus: experience with Python, Bash, or PowerShell automation
Bonus: interest in AWS, GCP, or Azure cloud security
Bonus: experience with a home lab environment

Benefits

Comp & perks

Equity plan
401(k) program (US)
Medical, dental, vision and life insurance (US)
Wellness stipend
Work-from-home equipment and Wi-Fi stipend
Learning and development stipend
Flexible, generous paid time off
Paid parental leave
Ongoing mentorship opportunities