Security Specialist Jobs in Ohio
Security Specialist jobs in Ohio are in steady demand, with concentrated hiring in information security, physical security operations, and corporate risk management roles that extend from entry-level security analyst positions through senior specialist and program lead roles. Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati anchor most of the hiring, where large employers such as Nationwide, Huntington Bancshares, and Procter and Gamble maintain ongoing security operations. The most sought-after specialties in Ohio include cybersecurity analysis, access control management, and compliance-focused security roles tied to the state's deep financial services and healthcare sectors. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Job Posting End Date
08-24-2026Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company!We’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Job Description
Support cybersecurity operations under senior guidance by monitoring, investigating, and documenting security events. Assess and test security controls, maintain high-quality standards, and demonstrate problem-solving and research skills.
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
What You'll Do:
Monitor security technologies for suspicious activity (e.g., malware, unauthorized access, network anomalies).
Analyze alerts and violations; respond to and mitigate threats in real time.
Collaborate with internal teams and external partners (e.g., Federal Agencies) on threat intelligence and incident response.
Communicate clearly in both written and verbal formats.
Maintain flexibility in a fast-paced, shift-based SOC/CIRC environment.
Ensure cybersecurity remains central to all tasks.
Participate in rotating shifts and be available for on-call duties (24x7x365).
Some travel and overtime may be required.
Additional Experience
Active or eligible for SECRET DoD clearance.
Experience with SIEM, firewalls, antivirus, and encryption tools.
Familiarity with network operations, incident response, and threat hunting.
Proficiency in scripting (Python, Bash, PowerShell, JavaScript).
Strong knowledge of Windows, Linux/UNIX, TCP/IP.
Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, GMON, GCIH, C|SA, CySA+, Sec+).
Ability to analyze threat patterns and assess enterprise impact.
Strong interpersonal, investigative, and critical thinking skills.
Adaptable to changing priorities and high-pressure environments.
What We're Looking For:
Security Spec (SG6)
Education requirements are listed below:
Bachelor's degree OR Associates degree with one year relevant experience in system administration/help desk/security (cyber or physical) OR High School Diploma/GED with 2 years relevant experience in IT system administration/help desk/security (cyber or physical); OR graduation from an approved Cybersecurity Program; alternatively may have non-degree qualifications (such as hands-on demonstrated ability in a technical interview/assessment).
Work Experience requirement listed below:
No additional experience required in addition to experience identified above.
Security Spec Sr. (SG7)
Education requirements are listed below:
Bachelor's degree OR Associates degree with 2 years relevant experience in system administration/help desk/security (cyber or physical) OR High School Diploma/GED with 4 years relevant experience in IT system administration/help desk/security (cyber or physical); OR graduation from an approved Cybersecurity Program; alternatively may have non-degree qualifications (such as hands-on demonstrated ability in a technical interview/assessment).
Work Experience requirement listed below:
2 or more years of Information Technology related experience; OR 1 or more years of security related experience, which may include military/government work experience in addition to any experience identified above.
Security Spec Prin (SG8)
Education requirements are listed below:
Bachelor's degree OR Associates degree with one year relevant experience in system administration/help desk/security (cyber or physical) OR High School Diploma/GED with 2 years relevant experience in IT system administration/help desk/security (cyber or physical); OR graduation from an approved Cybersecurity Program; alternatively may have non-degree qualifications (such as hands-on demonstrated ability in a technical interview/assessment).
Education requirements are listed below:
4 or more years of Information Technology related experience; OR 2 or more years of security related experience, which may include military/government work experience in addition to any experience identified above
Base Salary from $74,551.00 - $128,688.00/year. In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-006Compensation Range:
$74,551.00 - $128,688.00The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.See All 42 Security Specialist Jobs in Ohio
Find roles in Ohio that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Security Specialist JobsSecurity Specialist Jobs by City in Ohio
Where Ohio roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Security Specialist Job Market in Ohio
A snapshot from current Ohio openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Target10

- Allied Universal3

- NTT DATA2

- Amazon2

- P E Systems2

Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software
- Retail
- Airlines
- Insurance
What Ohio Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in security specialist jobs across Ohio.
- Active Ohio Security Guard License or OPOTC-recognized certification where applicable to the role
- Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, cybersecurity, information technology, or a related field
- Relevant certification such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CPP depending on specialization
- Demonstrated experience with security information and event management platforms or physical access systems
- Ability to pass a thorough background investigation and drug screening prior to hire
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for incident documentation and stakeholder reporting
Security Specialist Jobs in Ohio: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a security specialist in Ohio?
The path depends on your specialization. For physical security roles, Ohio requires a Security Guard Registration through the Ohio Department of Public Safety, which involves a background check and approved training hours. For cybersecurity and information security positions, employers typically look for a bachelor's degree in a technical field paired with industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Many Ohio employers also accept candidates who transition from law enforcement, IT support, or military backgrounds.
How much do security specialists make in Ohio?
Security specialists in Ohio earn a median of about $79,350 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $46,560 for the lowest 10% to over $132,720 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire security specialists in Ohio?
Employers hiring security specialists in Ohio right now include Target, Allied Universal, and NTT DATA, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Ohio's concentration of financial institutions, large healthcare systems, and government contractors creates consistent demand for both physical and information security specialists throughout the state.
Which Ohio cities have the most security specialist jobs?
Columbus, Dayton, and Ohio have the most security specialist openings in Ohio. Columbus leads due to its density of state government offices, financial services headquarters, and large technology employers, while Cleveland and Cincinnati contribute heavily through their healthcare systems, manufacturing operations, and regional corporate headquarters that maintain dedicated security teams.
Are there remote security specialist jobs in Ohio?
Yes, but they are more common on the cybersecurity and information security side than in physical or operational security roles. About 56% of security specialist openings tied to Ohio are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting the desk-based nature of analyst and compliance work. Roles focused on network monitoring, vulnerability assessment, and security policy are the most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements.
How can I get hired as a security specialist in Ohio with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry point is pursuing an Ohio Security Guard Registration first, which allows you to gain paid field experience while building toward more specialized roles. Large Ohio employers such as hospital systems, universities, and financial institutions regularly hire for security officer and security coordinator positions that serve as stepping stones. Completing a CompTIA Security+ certification while working in an IT helpdesk or facilities role is a common lateral move into information security. Associate degree programs at Columbus State, Cuyahoga Community College, and Cincinnati State offer security and criminal justice coursework that Ohio employers recognize.
Where can I find and apply to security specialist jobs in Ohio?
You can find and apply to security specialist jobs in Ohio on Migrate Mate, which lists current Ohio openings across industries and experience levels. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly to the employer through each listing.
See All 42 Security Specialist Jobs in Ohio
Find roles in Ohio that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Security Specialist Jobs