OT SOC Analyst II

Job description

CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. Our Vision: Our vision is to become the most admired utility in the United States through the execution of our long-term growth strategy. We have an unwavering commitment to safely and reliably deliver electricity and natural gas to millions of people. Our Commitment: CenterPoint Energy is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where business results are achieved through the skills, abilities and talents of our diverse workforce. At CenterPoint Energy, individuals are respected for their contributions toward our company objectives. We strive for an inclusive work environment across all levels that is reflective of the available workforce in the communities we serve. Job Summary The OT SOC Analyst is responsible for monitoring, detecting, analyzing, and responding to cybersecurity events impacting Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control System (ICS) environments. This role performs advanced analysis of alerts and events generated by OT security monitoring platforms and SIEM/SOAR technologies, conducts investigations into suspicious activity, and escalates confirmed or potential incidents in accordance with established OT SOC playbooks and procedures. The analyst will work closely with key stakeholders to protect critical infrastructure, maintain real-time visibility into OT network activity, and support the safety, reliability and continuity of operational systems. Essential Functions Perform continuous (24/7) monitoring of OT networks, systems, and devices, including SCADA systems, PLCs, RTUs, IEDs, and associated communications infrastructure. Analyze alerts, logs, and telemetry from OT security platforms and SIEM/SOAR solutions to identify anomalies, indicators of compromise (IOCs), and potential cyber threats. Conduct initial triage and investigation of detected events, determining scope, severity, and potential operational impact. Escalate confirmed or suspected incidents in accordance with OT SOC playbooks, incident classification criteria, and escalation procedures. Perform in-depth analysis of suspicious activity within OT environments, including log review, network traffic analysis, and correlation across multiple data sources. Support forensic analysis of impacted OT systems to assist in identifying root causes, attack paths, and contributing factors. Accurately document incidents, investigations, and response actions within organizational ticketing and case management systems. Provide timely notification of identified cybersecurity incidents or attempted compromises to appropriate stakeholders. Collaborate with OT SOC leadership and engineering teams to refine detection logic, improve SIEM/SOAR use cases, and enhance OT-specific playbooks. Participate in incident response activities, including coordination with operations, engineering, compliance, and external partners as required. Maintain awareness of emerging OT threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques relevant to electric utilities. Education Description Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related technical field is preferred, or equivalent practical experience Experience 1–3 years of hands-on Security Operations Center (SOC) experience, including alert triage, investigation, and incident escalation in an IT and/or OT environment. Experience supporting OT cybersecurity or security operations within regulated critical infrastructure environments is highly desirable. Hands-on experience configuring, tuning, and operating SIEM/SOAR platforms in an operational security environment. Relevant certifications from Splunk and GIAC including GICSP, GRID, GCIP, GCIA or GCIH are highly desirable. Demonstrated, hands-on experience with SIEM and SOAR platforms, preferably Splunk, including data correlation, workflow automation and dashboard creation. Experience supporting OT or ICS environments is strongly preferred, including exposure to SCADA, PLCs, RTUs, or related systems.Experience working with OT passive monitoring and threat detection tools, such as Nozomi, Dragos, and Claroty. Solid understanding of networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, routing, firewalls, network segmentation, and common OT protocols such as Modbus and DNP3. Ability to analyze logs, network flows, and alerts to identify security-relevant events, and apply incident response principles, investigation techniques, and evidence handling practices. Familiarity with NERC CIP and TSA cybersecurity requirements and how security monitoring and incident response support regulatory obligations within OT environments. Strong analytical and communication skills, with attention to detail and the ability to clearly document findings and collaborate across technical and non-technical teams. We want you to know Being a part of the CenterPoint Energy team is more than a career alone. It's an opportunity to make a positive impact. You will be an integral part of enabling everyday life and the pursuit of possibilities for the customers we serve and the communities we share. The vital services we provide are at the core of making our world work, and by sharing your energy with us, we'll create a better tomorrow together. What we bring to you Competitive pay Paid training Benefits eligibility begins on your first day Transit subsidies Flexible work schedule, paid holidays and paid time off Access to discounts at fitness clubs and an on-site wellness center at our headquarters in Houston Professional growth and development programs including tuition reimbursement 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match dollar-for-dollar up to 6% and a company contribution of 3% regardless of your contribution Job Type: Full Time Posting Start Date: 07/16/2026​ Posting End Date: 07/31/2026 This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a), and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability. #LI-CNP