What You'll Do

Are you passionate about identifying security risks and strengthening defenses across applications, cloud environments, and third party vendors?

As a Cybersecurity Assessment and Test Analyst II, you'll play a critical role within the Cybersecurity Investigations & Response organization, helping safeguard the firm against evolving cyber threats. You'll partner with teams across multiple Security, and Technology teams and the broader business to assess risk, validate controls, and drive remediation. Reporting into a security governance function led by the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), this role offers high visibility and the opportunity to directly influence the firm's security posture while ensuring compliance with legal, contractual, and ethical obligations.
• Conduct and support cybersecurity risk assessments across applications, infrastructure, cloud services internally and by leveraging third party vendors.
• Partner with internal technology teams and external vendors to coordinate assessments and ensure timely remediation. Review and validate key security controls including data protection, Identity and Access Management (IAM), logging, encryption, and incident response readiness.
• Ensure assessments align with firm policies and industry frameworks such as ISO 27001, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800 53, Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), and Center for Internet Security (CIS).
• Document, communicate, and track security risks, gaps, and remediation recommendations in a clear, actionable format.
• Conduct security testing to verify configurations and remediated findings.
• Help develop structured approaches to ensure consistent assessment of all critical production systems.
• Leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and automation tools to streamline workflows such as intake, scheduling, reporting, and evidence packaging.
• Contribute to cross-functional security projects, providing status updates, documentation, and insights.
• Translate complex security concepts into clear guidance for both technical and non technical stakeholders, enabling informed decision-making.

What You'll Bring
• Education & Certifications: Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Systems, or a related field preferred; certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) are a plus.
• Relevant Experience: At least 5 years of experience in Information Technology (IT), including 3+ years in security, risk, or compliance roles.
• Security Framework Expertise: Working knowledge of frameworks like ISO 27001, NIST 800 53, CSF, CIS, and MITRE ATT&CK.
• Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with penetration testing and risk assessment tools, (e.g., RSA Archer, Vectr, Metasploit, Cobalt Strike, Cymulate, SafeBreach),
• Testing & Assessment Skills: Understanding of red team and purple team concepts, and experience validating security controls and remediation.
• Analytical Thinking & Judgment: Ability to assess risk, apply sound judgment, and produce practical, business-aligned recommendations.
• Collaboration & Communication: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and clearly communicate findings and recommendations.
• Attention to Detail & Professionalism: High level of accuracy, discretion, and accountability when handling sensitive information.

If you're ready to strengthen enterprise security, collaborate with high-impact teams, and make a measurable difference as a Cybersecurity Assessment and Test Analyst II, we'd love to hear from you!

Compensation

The base salary range below represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position in Chicago. This range may differ based on your geographic location and cost of living considerations. At Kirkland & Ellis, we consider compensation more than just a base salary. We offer an exceptional range of flexible benefits including comprehensive healthcare, paid time off, and retirement. We also offer personal support and tailored learning and development opportunities all designed to help you realize your full potential both in life and at work.

Compensation Range:

Chicago: $116,000 - $144,000

How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in Kirkland & Ellis LLP. To complete an application and submit your resume, please click "Apply Now."

Don't meet every job requirement? That's okay! If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly fit every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right person for this role or others at Kirkland.