Associate Security Specialist 2026 - FutureNow - Chicago

• Introduction
• About the Client Innovation Center (FutureNow)IBM Consulting Client Innovation Centers (FutureNow) are high-delivery, team-based environments where technologists work onsite to build real solutions for real clients.

At FutureNow, associates collaborate closely with peers and experienced practitioners to design, build, test, and support enterprise applications at scale. Our delivery centers are built for learning through delivery, combining hands-on project work, structured training, mentorship, and teamwork to help early-career professionals develop strong technical foundations and grow with confidence.

This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, learning quickly, and working in an in-person, collaborative delivery environment.

• Your role and responsibilities
• The Associate Security Specialist - Cyber Threat Management & CyberDefend is an entry-level role focused on supporting the monitoring, analysis, and implementation of security solutions that help clients strengthen their security posture.

CyberDefend refers to IBM's integrated approach to cyber defense, bringing together threat detection, response, and security operations across people, processes, and technology.

This role is not about being a security expert on day one. It is about building strong foundational security knowledge, learning how to identify and manage cyber threats, and contributing effectively to structured security delivery teams.

Associates are expected to contribute to established delivery teams and progressively assume greater responsibility and ownership as their skills and experience develop.

As an Associate Security Specialist, you will:

• Support security engagements by collecting and analyzing technical and business requirements with guidance from senior consultants
• Assist with the monitoring, detection, and analysis of security threats and vulnerabilities
• Contribute to the design, implementation, and support of security controls, tools, and processes
• Participate in security operations activities such as threat analysis, incident support, and remediation efforts
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to help integrate security solutions into client environments
• Gain exposure to multiple platforms, tools, and architectures used in enterprise security environments
• Build cybersecurity, consulting, and problem-solving skills through training, mentorship, and hands-on delivery experience
• Work with functional and technical team members to help integrate packaged solutions into client business environments
• Required technical and professional expertise
• The Associate Security Specialist - Cyber Threat Management & CyberDefend is an entry-level role focused on supporting the monitoring, analysis, and implementation of security solutions that help clients strengthen their security posture.

CyberDefend refers to IBM's integrated approach to cyber defense, bringing together threat detection, response, and security operations across people, processes, and technology.

This role is not about being a security expert on day one. It is about building strong foundational security knowledge, learning how to identify and manage cyber threats, and contributing effectively to structured security delivery teams.

Associates are expected to contribute to established delivery teams and progressively assume greater responsibility and ownership as their skills and experience develop.

As an Associate Security Specialist, you will:

• Support security engagements by collecting and analyzing technical and business requirements with guidance from senior consultants
• Assist with the monitoring, detection, and analysis of security threats and vulnerabilities
• Contribute to the design, implementation, and support of security controls, tools, and processes
• Participate in security operations activities such as threat analysis, incident support, and remediation efforts
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to help integrate security solutions into client environments
• Gain exposure to multiple platforms, tools, and architectures used in enterprise security environments
• Build cybersecurity, consulting, and problem-solving skills through training, mentorship, and hands-on delivery experience
• Work with functional and technical team members to help integrate packaged solutions into client business environments
• Preferred technical and professional experience
• These qualifications are essential for success in the role.

Core Foundations

• Ability to work effectively in a technology-driven consulting environment where tools, platforms, and client needs evolve over time
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to approach complex tasks using structured, logical thinking
• Ability to learn new systems and technologies quickly and apply them in a delivery setting
• Comfortable working onsite in a collaborative, team-based environmentCybersecurity Fundamentals
• Familiarity with core network and security concepts, such as:
• Network design and basic networking principles
• Authentication and authorization concepts
• Encryption concepts and standards
• Exposure to one or more cybersecurity domains through coursework, labs, projects, or internships, such as:
• Threat management or security operations
• Identity and access management
• Cloud or infrastructure security
• Data or application securityTechnical & Platform Awareness
• Exposure to programming or scripting languages used to support security analysis or automation, such as Python, Java, C/C++, C#, Go/Golang, Ruby, or Bash, through coursework or projects
• Familiarity with security or networking tools (e.g., vulnerability scanning, monitoring, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, or packet analysis), gained through academic work, labs, or self-studyApplied Experience
• Exposure to cybersecurity fundamentals through coursework, academic projects, internships, or work experienceBusiness & Delivery Skills
• Ability to translate business or functional requirements into technical solutions, with guidance from senior team members
• Comfortable working onsite in a collaborative, team-based environment
• Strong willingness to learn, accept feedback, and continuously improvePreferred Skills (Nice-to-Haves):
• Exposure to security operations centers (SOC) or incident response processes
• Experience with security testing, automation, or scripting
• Familiarity with cloud security concepts or environments
• Experience working in Agile or structured project delivery teams
• Experience collaborating with others on team-based software projectsEmerging Technology Awareness
• Familiarity with generative AI concepts, including basic modeling approaches, responsible use, and ethical considerations, gained through coursework, projects, or self-studyEducation
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field(Candidates with other degrees will be considered if they demonstrate equivalent technical skills.

)IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.