Sr. Research Development Analyst | Remote, USA

As a Sr. Research Development Analyst, you will not only conduct research, you will guide how research is performed. You'll lead complex analyses, establish scalable processes, mentor junior analysts, and serve as a trusted partner to stakeholders across R&D and the broader organization. If you thrive in ambiguity, enjoy building structure, and want to influence how cybersecurity research informs strategy and decision-making, this role offers meaningful impact and leadership opportunity. How you'll make an impact

• Lead in-depth research and analysis across a wide range of cybersecurity topics, including emerging technologies, tools, and industry trends.
• Drive the design, refinement, and adoption of R&D processes, workflows, and internal standards.
• Own the creation and quality of high-impact research deliverables, including reports, playbooks, frameworks, and knowledge base content.
• Ensure data accuracy and integrity across R&D systems, research repositories, and reporting artifacts.
• Provide project leadership across multiple R&D initiatives, including timeline management, prioritization, and cross-team coordination.
• Translate complex technical findings into clear, actionable insights for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Perform advanced data analysis to identify trends, patterns, and strategic implications within research findings.
• Serve as a subject-matter resource and mentor for junior analysts, providing guidance, review, and knowledge sharing.
• Leverage Microsoft 365 tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint) to support collaboration, analysis, and communication at scale.
• Use Generative AI tools thoughtfully to accelerate research, enhance content quality, and improve analytical efficiency.

What we're looking for

• 5+ years of experience in cybersecurity research, analysis, IT, or a closely related field.
• Strong working knowledge of cybersecurity tools, frameworks, and industry standards.
• Demonstrated ability to independently research complex technical topics and synthesize them into clear, well-structured written content.
• Proven experience developing, improving, and documenting repeatable processes.
• Advanced organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Strong data analysis skills, including working with large datasets, identifying trends, and validating findings.
• Programming experience (e.g., Python) for automation, data analysis, or tooling support.
• Experience writing and optimizing SQL queries.
• Familiarity with reporting, visualization, or analytics platforms.
• Experience mentoring or guiding less-experienced team members.
• Background in cybersecurity through professional experience, education, or certifications.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Practical experience using Generative AI tools to responsibly support research, analysis, or content creation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and inform stakeholders.
• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Analytics, or a related field (Master's degree a plus).

Skills that will set you apart

• Experience supporting or partnering with sales or go-to-market teams.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to frame cybersecurity insights in a business context.
• Prior experience in consulting, enterprise IT, or complex cybersecurity environments.
• Relevant cybersecurity certifications.

#LI-KG1 What you can expect from Optiv

• A company committed to our inclusive value through our Employee Resource Groups
• Work/life balance
• Professional training resources
• Creative problem-solving and the ability to tackle unique, complex projects
• Volunteer Opportunities. "Optiv Chips In" encourages employees to volunteer and engage with their teams and communities.
• The ability and technology necessary to productively work remotely/from home (where applicable)

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