Cyber Security Analyst

Spark NZ
  As New Zealand's largest telecommunications and digital services company, Spark's purpose is to help all of New Zealand win big in a digital world. We provide mobile, broadband, and digital services to millions of New Zealanders and thousands of New Zealand businesses.  We operate in an exciting and constantly evolving industry, where the pace of change brings new and unique challenges every day, so we operate using Agile ways of working to allow us to meet the fast-changing needs of our customers. Agile replaces the traditional hierarchical organisational structure to produce a transparent, collaborative environment with highly productive teams who are empowered to deliver better outcomes for our customers, communities, and all of New Zealand.

About the Role

Spark Cyber Defence Operations Center is seeking a
Tier 1 Security Analyst
to join our expanding team and help defend Spark, as well as Spark's Managed Security Services customers. You will be based in our
Auckland
or
Christchurch
office, handling a range of cyber security threats - such as DDoS, phishing, malware, and other advanced attacks - on a daily basis.

This opportunity is ideal for someone with a technical mindset, passionate about developing their skills and knowledge in cybersecurity, and eager to face new challenges. While previous relevant experience is beneficial, your attitude, motivation, and determination to excel are paramount. We are looking for career-oriented, reliable, and sharp individuals ready to thrive in a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding environment.

About You:

• You possess exceptional critical thinking skills and proactively avoid cognitive biases.
• You are self‑motivated, driven, and deeply passionate about cybersecurity.
• You have hands‑on experience with open‑source cybersecurity tools and platforms.
• You have a high‑level understanding of malware types, detection methods, and analysis techniques.
• You clearly recognize technical vulnerabilities and associated risks.
• You bring practical experience with security technologies, including SIEM systems, IDS/IPS, firewalls, and endpoint protection solutions.
• You excel at coordinating, analyzing, and investigating security incidents, determining root causes, and developing effective mitigation strategies.
• You remain calm and professional under pressure, consistently delivering high‑quality outcomes.
• You proactively identify and recommend improvements to enhance organizational security and positively impact business objectives.
• Relevant cybersecurity certifications (e.g., Security+, CySA+, BTL1, SAL1, or equivalent) are highly advantageous.
• You have a strong foundational understanding of TCP/IP protocols and network security principles, and are familiar with both Windows and Linux environments.

Essential Requirements:

• Must be able to continually pass the security vetting process and hold New Zealand permanent residency or citizenship.
• Highly motivated, eager to learn, and embodying a proactive, "can-do" attitude.
• Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills, with a proven ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Availability and flexibility to work rotating shifts, including overnight shifts, as CDOC operates 24/7.
• Fluent and articulate in English, with strong verbal and written communication skills suitable for client engagement.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and keeping abreast of emerging cybersecurity trends and threats.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science (Cyber Security focus preferred), or equivalent industry experience

What We Offer

By joining New Zealand's largest private Cyber Defence Operations Center, you will be part of a rapidly growing team that supports both internal and external customers. We provide extensive training and upskilling opportunities, working alongside some of the country's most experienced security professionals and mentors. This environment will enable you to develop a robust career in the cybersecurity industry and make a meaningful impact on Spark's and our customers' security posture.

WHY CHOOSE US:
 
Diversity and Inclusion: Te Kanorau me te Whakawhāiti mai
At Spark, we are constantly looking for ways to build a more inclusive culture.  Our vision is for diversity and inclusion to be "how things are done at Spark", embedded into our day-to-day activities, standards, and business practices.  We want you to feel totally comfortable bringing your whole self to work regardless of your gender, ethnicity, orientation, age, or ability.   
Sustainability: Toitū
 Sustainability is a key focus for us.  We are dedicated to supporting Aotearoa New Zealand's recovery and economic transformation.  The principle of equity is at the very heart of our approach, and we remain committed to working in partnership to make a positive contribution to digital equity in line with our focus on Diversity and Inclusion.   
Benefits: Awhina
 Our people matter and we make sure we look after them. As a valued employee of Spark, we've got our people covered with a range of leading benefits including: 

• Wellbeing
   - Comprehensive medical insurance, life and income protection.  Access to wellbeing coaches, EAP and in-house Specialist Clinical support through our leading Mahi Tahi Wellness programme.

• Hybrid ways of working
   - for most teams at Spark this means being in the office for 4 days a week, and 1 day being flexible.

• Leave
   - in addition to four weeks annual leave, we offer purchased leave, enhanced parental leave support and study leave.

• Spark Credit
   – we provide permanent employees with $120 monthly Spark credit to use on any of our amazing products.

• Spark Share scheme
   – periodically we offer the opportunity to buy into our share scheme.

• Career development
   – access to an internal marketplace that connects employees with experiential, on the job learning across Spark.

Due to the nature and urgency of this role, we are only considering applicants that are based in New Zealand with permanent residency or citizenship.