Cyber Security Engineer Onboarding Checklist

Cyber Security Engineer Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Cyber Security Engineer starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Technology onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Cyber Security Engineer, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Cyber Security Engineer onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Cyber Security Engineer Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The new Cyber Security Engineer should be provided with a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures related to cybersecurity. This includes understanding the acceptable use of technology resources, data protection guidelines, incident response protocols, and any other relevant policies. The Human Resources department or the IT department typically handles this task.

2. Familiarization with the company’s network infrastructure: The Cyber Security Engineer needs to become familiar with the company’s network infrastructure, including the various systems, servers, firewalls, and other security devices in place. This task involves working closely with the IT department or network administrators to understand the network architecture, access controls, and any existing security measures.

3. Review of existing security controls: The new Cyber Security Engineer should conduct a thorough review of the company’s existing security controls, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, antivirus software, and access controls. This task involves collaborating with the IT department or the security operations team to understand the effectiveness of these controls, identify any gaps or vulnerabilities, and propose improvements if necessary.

4. Understanding the company’s security policies and standards: The Cyber Security Engineer should review and understand the company’s security policies and standards, such as ISO 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, or any other relevant industry standards. This task involves studying the documentation provided by the company’s security team or compliance department and ensuring compliance with these standards.

5. Training on security tools and technologies: The new Cyber Security Engineer should receive training on the specific security tools and technologies used by the company. This includes learning how to operate and configure security software, such as vulnerability scanners, SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) systems, and penetration testing tools. The training may be conducted by the IT department, security operations team, or external vendors.

6. Collaboration with other teams: The Cyber Security Engineer should establish relationships and collaborate with other teams within the company, such as the IT department, software development teams, and operations teams. This task involves attending meetings, understanding their roles and responsibilities, and identifying areas where cybersecurity can be integrated into their processes.

7. Incident response training: The new Cyber Security Engineer should receive training on the company’s incident response procedures. This includes understanding how to detect, analyze, and respond to security incidents, as well as the escalation process and communication protocols. The training may be conducted by the security operations team or the company’s incident response team.

8. Review of security documentation: The Cyber Security Engineer should review and familiarize themselves with any existing security documentation, such as security policies, procedures, incident response plans, and disaster recovery plans. This task involves studying the documentation provided by the company’s security team or compliance department and ensuring they have a clear understanding of the company’s security posture.

9. Shadowing experienced team members: The new Cyber Security Engineer should have the opportunity to shadow experienced team members to gain practical knowledge and insights into the company’s cybersecurity operations. This task involves observing and assisting senior team members in their day-to-day tasks, such as vulnerability assessments, security audits, or incident response activities.

10. Continuous learning and professional development: The Cyber Security Engineer should be encouraged to engage in continuous learning and professional development activities to stay updated with the latest trends, threats, and technologies in the cybersecurity field. This task involves attending relevant conferences, webinars, and training sessions, as well as obtaining industry certifications. The company’s security team or the employee’s manager can guide and support them in this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Cyber Security Engineer checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Cyber Security Engineer up to speed and working well in your Technology team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.