Threat Researcher vs. Security Operations Engineer

Threat Researcher vs Security Operations Engineer: A Comprehensive Comparison

5 min read · Dec. 6, 2023

Career

Threat Researcher vs. Security Operations Engineer

In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, two roles stand out as critical to the protection of organizations' digital assets: Threat Researchers and Security Operations Engineers. While both roles are essential in ensuring the security of an organization, they have different responsibilities, required skills, educational backgrounds, tools and software used, and career outlooks. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two roles, and provide practical tips for those interested in pursuing a career in either one.

Definitions

A Threat Researcher is responsible for identifying and analyzing potential security threats and Vulnerabilities in an organization's systems, networks, and applications. They use a variety of tools and techniques to investigate and understand the nature of these threats, and provide recommendations for mitigating or eliminating them.

A Security Operations Engineer, on the other hand, is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of an organization's security infrastructure. They work closely with other IT professionals to ensure that the organization's security policies and procedures are effective, and that any security incidents are detected and resolved quickly.

Responsibilities

While both roles are focused on ensuring the security of an organization, their specific responsibilities differ significantly.

Threat Researcher

A Threat Researcher's responsibilities typically include:

Conducting research and analysis on emerging threats and Vulnerabilities
Developing and testing new security tools and techniques
Providing recommendations for improving an organization's security posture
Investigating security incidents and breaches
Collaborating with other IT professionals and security teams to share information and best practices

Security Operations Engineer

A Security Operations Engineer's responsibilities typically include:

Designing and implementing security policies and procedures
Configuring and maintaining security infrastructure, such as Firewalls, Intrusion detection systems, and anti-virus software
Monitoring security systems for potential threats and vulnerabilities
Responding to security incidents and breaches
Conducting regular security Audits and assessments

Required Skills

Both roles require a strong foundation in IT and cybersecurity, as well as specific skills that are unique to each role.

Threat Researcher

A Threat Researcher should have the following skills:

Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Knowledge of programming languages, such as Python or C++
Familiarity with security tools and techniques, such as penetration testing and vulnerability scanning
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong attention to detail

Security Operations Engineer

A Security Operations Engineer should have the following skills:

Strong knowledge of network protocols and infrastructure
Familiarity with security tools and techniques, such as firewalls, IDS/IPS, and SIEMs
Knowledge of Scripting languages, such as PowerShell or Bash
Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment

Educational Backgrounds

Both roles require a solid foundation in IT and cybersecurity, but the specific educational backgrounds may differ.

Threat Researcher

A Threat Researcher typically has a degree in Computer Science, information security, or a related field. They may also have relevant certifications, such as the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or the Offensive security Certified Professional (OSCP).

Security Operations Engineer

A Security Operations Engineer typically has a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. They may also have relevant certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).

Tools and Software Used

Both roles require the use of various tools and software to perform their responsibilities effectively.

Threat Researcher

A Threat Researcher may use the following tools and software:

Penetration testing tools, such as Metasploit or Nmap
Vulnerability scanners, such as Nessus or OpenVAS
Malware analysis tools, such as IDA Pro or OllyDbg
Network analysis tools, such as Wireshark or tcpdump

Security Operations Engineer

A Security Operations Engineer may use the following tools and software:

Firewall software, such as Cisco ASA or Palo Alto Networks
Intrusion detection/prevention systems, such as Snort or Suricata
Security information and event management (SIEM) tools, such as Splunk or IBM QRadar
Anti-virus software, such as McAfee or Symantec Endpoint Protection

Common Industries

Both roles are in high demand across various industries that require robust cybersecurity measures.

Threat Researcher

A Threat Researcher may work in the following industries:

Technology and software development
Financial services
Government and defense
Healthcare
Retail and E-commerce

Security Operations Engineer

A Security Operations Engineer may work in the following industries:

Technology and software development
Financial services
Healthcare
Government and defense
Energy and utilities

Outlook

Both roles have a positive career outlook, with strong demand for skilled professionals in the cybersecurity industry.

Threat Researcher

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of information security analysts, which includes Threat Researchers, is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Security Operations Engineer

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of network and computer systems administrators, which includes Security Operations Engineers, is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.