As a Principal Network Detection & Response Engineer within our Cyber Operations Group team, you will lead the architecture, deployment, and continuous optimization of enterprise-wide Network Detection and Response (NDR) capabilities. In this role, you will be instrumental in protecting critical enterprise assets by analyzing network telemetry, developing advanced threat detection logic, and orchestrating rapid response strategies against sophisticated cyber threats. You will collaborate closely with threat intelligence, incident response, and infrastructure teams to design resilient, cutting-edge security monitoring solutions across hybrid-cloud and on-premises environments.
You'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely * from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges. For all hires in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. area, you will be required to work in the office a minimum of four days per week.
Primary Responsibilities:- Lead the strategy, architectural design, and optimization of Network Detection & Response (NDR) and network security monitoring platforms across hybrid enterprise environments
- Develop, test, and tune high-fidelity detection signatures, behavioral rules, and anomaly detection models to identify advanced persistent threats (APTs) and zero-day vulnerabilities
- Analyze complex network traffic, packet captures (PCAP), flow data, and encrypted telemetry to uncover evasive malicious activity and lateral movement
- Drive automated response workflows and integration between NDR tools, SIEM, SOAR, and Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) platforms to minimize Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Respond (MTTR)
- Partner with Threat Hunting, Threat Intelligence, and Incident Response teams to translate emerging cyber threat tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) into actionable detections
- Conduct technical reviews, risk assessments, and architectural evaluations of proposed network infrastructure changes to ensure alignment with security detection objectives
- Mentor senior and junior security engineers, providing technical guidance, rule reviews, and subject matter expertise in network defense and threat hunting
You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.
Required Qualifications:- 5+ years of professional experience in cybersecurity engineering, network security, or intrusion detection/prevention
- 3+ years of hands-on experience deploying, configuring, and tuning Network Detection & Response (NDR) or Network Traffic Analysis (NTA) platforms (e.g., Corelight, Darktrace, ExtraHop, Zeek/Bro, Suricata)
- 3+ years of experience analyzing network protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, DNS, TLS, BGP) and conducting deep packet inspection using tools such as Wireshark, Zeek, or Suricata
- 3+ years of experience integrating network telemetry and security alerts into enterprise SIEM (e.g., Splunk, Sentinel) and SOAR tools
Preferred Qualifications:- Industry certifications in information security or network security (e.g., CISSP, GCIA, GCIH, GNFA, CCNP Security)
- Experience engineering security detections for cloud networks and cloud-native services (e.g., AWS VPC Traffic Mirroring, Azure Network Watcher, GCP Packet Mirroring)
- Knowledge of the MITRE ATT&CK framework with demonstrated success mapping network detections to adversary techniques
- Solid background in decrypting or inspecting SSL/TLS traffic and analyzing encrypted network sessions
- Proven ability to communicate complex technical security risks and detection strategies to senior engineering and leadership stakeholders
*All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy
Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $112,700 - $193,200 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.
Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.