Security Specialist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Security Specialist roles attract H-1B visa and other work visa sponsorship, particularly in government contracting, cybersecurity, and physical security sectors. Many positions require or prefer security clearances, which can complicate sponsorship timelines but doesn't make it impossible for qualified international candidates. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced System Security Specialist at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
JOB PURPOSE
The System Security Analyst is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Information Security and access management team. This role works closely with both the Identity Management (IDM) and Operations Team Leads to support various aspects of information security functions provided for the University and within a collaborative and multifaceted team environment. This position reports to the Senior Director, Chief Information Security Officer.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(Essential functions are the primary duties/major job responsibilities that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation. The essential functions are listed in order of importance.)
Firewall Change Requests
- Analyze requested changes to existing firewall rulesets. Prove demonstrated need for rule changes and accuracy of addressed changes, obtaining proof and documentation where needed. Identify specific firewalls to be modified and creation of rule elements with least-privilege concepts in mind. Accurately create and deploy changes appropriate for each firewall device. Log and document all changes to firewall configurations and rulesets.
Access Management
- Act as the first responder to Enterprise System access and de-provisioning request. Triage and address any low-level inquiries related to identity and system access. Maintain documentation of the Enterprise System Access Process.
Operate University Security Tools
- Configure, maintain and provide daily operations of the tools that provide information security services such as vulnerability management scanning and issuing SSL certificates. Light system management of other SaaS based tools that provide services such as 2FA, Password management and Security Training.
Triage Incoming Operations Incidents
- Monitor incoming incident queue and act as first responder. Identify relevance, credibility, and criticality of reported events. Gather additional logs or information to verify incident claims. Escalate critical or important incidents to senior staff.
Address, Investigate, Document, and Resolve Low Level Security Incidents
- Act as primary responder for identified low-level incidents. Gather and analyze system logs, network captures, and external data during investigative process. Resolve and respond to incident per established procedures. Document and log all aspects of investigation.
Identify Issues and Work on Security Projects
-
Understand current security landscape in relation to existing Information Security Program. Identify areas of improvement where organizational risks can be minimized or existing risks can be dealt with in a more efficient manner. Work on security projects at the direction and guidance of the Information Security Officer.
-
Perform other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Bachelor's degree
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience: Experienced (minimum 2 years of job-related experience)
Minimum 2 years’ experience in supporting technology, application development or security administration in an enterprise environment. Experience in a broad range of technologies is preferred. Experience in a higher education environment is a plus.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Technology Skills:
- Intermediate understanding of networking concepts, such as routing and TCP/IP.
- Intermediate understanding of the Windows Operating System, preferred knowledge of Linux and Mac OS.
- Intermediate understanding of firewall functionality, including VPNs and encryption.
- Basic understanding of identity and directory services concepts such as RBAC and MFA.
- Basic understanding of information security threats and controls for managing those threats.
Analytical Skills:
- Analyzes the impact of potential actions.
- Demonstrates the ability to apply analytical and logical thinking to gather and analyze information.
- Capable of analyzing large volumes of data and summarizing results.
- Proposes, evaluates alternative solutions to achieve organizational goals.
Problem Solving Skills:
- Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner.
- Anticipates the implications and consequences of situations and takes appropriate action to be prepared for contingencies.
- Leads groups in problem analysis and process improvement initiatives.
Interpersonal Skills:
- Relates to people in an open, friendly, and acceptable manner.
- Effectively balances the interests and needs of own group with the broader organization.
- Resolves conflicts and disagreements and builds consensus.
Teamwork and Peer Relationships:
- Ability to work through and with others at all organizational levels to ensure work is completed and objectives are met.
- Ability to be a contributing and constructive member of University committees and task forces.
- Demonstrates the ability to build a collaborative or team environment within responsible or assigned areas.
Customer Focus:
- Establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and gains their trust and respect.
- Proactively identifies customer issues and quickly and effectively resolves customer problems.
- Establishes customer service standards and objectives.
Communication Skills:
- Ability to provide direction and guidance in information security matters to departments across campus.
- Expresses oneself clearly in conversations and interactions with others.
- Expresses oneself clearly and concisely in writing.
- Concisely summarizes large or complex issues both verbally and in writing.
Normal office environment.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
School/College/Division:
H25 - Computing & Info Technology
Primary department:
H25 Computing & Info Technology
Employment type:
- Regular Employee
- Job type: Full Time
- Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
- Compensation type: Annual Salary
- Hourly rate:
- Salary minimum:
- Salary hire maximum: $88,811
WORKING CONDITIONS
Job openings:
- Number of openings: 1
- Reposted position: No
- Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
- Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
INTRODUCTION
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced System Security Specialist at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
JOB PURPOSE
The System Security Analyst is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Information Security and access management team. This role works closely with both the Identity Management (IDM) and Operations Team Leads to support various aspects of information security functions provided for the University and within a collaborative and multifaceted team environment. This position reports to the Senior Director, Chief Information Security Officer.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(Essential functions are the primary duties/major job responsibilities that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation. The essential functions are listed in order of importance.)
Firewall Change Requests
- Analyze requested changes to existing firewall rulesets. Prove demonstrated need for rule changes and accuracy of addressed changes, obtaining proof and documentation where needed. Identify specific firewalls to be modified and creation of rule elements with least-privilege concepts in mind. Accurately create and deploy changes appropriate for each firewall device. Log and document all changes to firewall configurations and rulesets.
Access Management
- Act as the first responder to Enterprise System access and de-provisioning request. Triage and address any low-level inquiries related to identity and system access. Maintain documentation of the Enterprise System Access Process.
Operate University Security Tools
- Configure, maintain and provide daily operations of the tools that provide information security services such as vulnerability management scanning and issuing SSL certificates. Light system management of other SaaS based tools that provide services such as 2FA, Password management and Security Training.
Triage Incoming Operations Incidents
- Monitor incoming incident queue and act as first responder. Identify relevance, credibility, and criticality of reported events. Gather additional logs or information to verify incident claims. Escalate critical or important incidents to senior staff.
Address, Investigate, Document, and Resolve Low Level Security Incidents
- Act as primary responder for identified low-level incidents. Gather and analyze system logs, network captures, and external data during investigative process. Resolve and respond to incident per established procedures. Document and log all aspects of investigation.
Identify Issues and Work on Security Projects
-
Understand current security landscape in relation to existing Information Security Program. Identify areas of improvement where organizational risks can be minimized or existing risks can be dealt with in a more efficient manner. Work on security projects at the direction and guidance of the Information Security Officer.
-
Perform other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Bachelor's degree
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience: Experienced (minimum 2 years of job-related experience)
Minimum 2 years’ experience in supporting technology, application development or security administration in an enterprise environment. Experience in a broad range of technologies is preferred. Experience in a higher education environment is a plus.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Technology Skills:
- Intermediate understanding of networking concepts, such as routing and TCP/IP.
- Intermediate understanding of the Windows Operating System, preferred knowledge of Linux and Mac OS.
- Intermediate understanding of firewall functionality, including VPNs and encryption.
- Basic understanding of identity and directory services concepts such as RBAC and MFA.
- Basic understanding of information security threats and controls for managing those threats.
Analytical Skills:
- Analyzes the impact of potential actions.
- Demonstrates the ability to apply analytical and logical thinking to gather and analyze information.
- Capable of analyzing large volumes of data and summarizing results.
- Proposes, evaluates alternative solutions to achieve organizational goals.
Problem Solving Skills:
- Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner.
- Anticipates the implications and consequences of situations and takes appropriate action to be prepared for contingencies.
- Leads groups in problem analysis and process improvement initiatives.
Interpersonal Skills:
- Relates to people in an open, friendly, and acceptable manner.
- Effectively balances the interests and needs of own group with the broader organization.
- Resolves conflicts and disagreements and builds consensus.
Teamwork and Peer Relationships:
- Ability to work through and with others at all organizational levels to ensure work is completed and objectives are met.
- Ability to be a contributing and constructive member of University committees and task forces.
- Demonstrates the ability to build a collaborative or team environment within responsible or assigned areas.
Customer Focus:
- Establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and gains their trust and respect.
- Proactively identifies customer issues and quickly and effectively resolves customer problems.
- Establishes customer service standards and objectives.
Communication Skills:
- Ability to provide direction and guidance in information security matters to departments across campus.
- Expresses oneself clearly in conversations and interactions with others.
- Expresses oneself clearly and concisely in writing.
- Concisely summarizes large or complex issues both verbally and in writing.
Normal office environment.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
School/College/Division:
H25 - Computing & Info Technology
Primary department:
H25 Computing & Info Technology
Employment type:
- Regular Employee
- Job type: Full Time
- Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
- Compensation type: Annual Salary
- Hourly rate:
- Salary minimum:
- Salary hire maximum: $88,811
WORKING CONDITIONS
Job openings:
- Number of openings: 1
- Reposted position: No
- Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
- Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Security Specialist
Target government contractors first
Federal contractors in defense and intelligence consistently sponsor Security Specialists for H-1B visas. They have established legal teams, predictable sponsorship budgets, and ongoing demand for qualified candidates that makes navigating the process more straightforward than smaller employers.
Clarify clearance eligibility early
Security clearances are generally only available to U.S. citizens, so roles requiring clearances are typically off-limits. Ask employers upfront whether clearance is required or just preferred, many unclassified security positions remain open to sponsored candidates with the right technical background.
Certifications carry more weight than degrees alone
Certifications like CISSP, CISM, CompTIA Security+, and CEH significantly strengthen both your candidacy and your H-1B specialty occupation case. Employers and USCIS both treat these credentials as evidence of specialized expertise that goes beyond generalist qualifications.
Lead with your technical specialization
Employers are far more likely to sponsor candidates with a defined niche, cloud security, OT/ICS security, penetration testing, or SOC operations, than generalists. Specificity signals expertise and makes the specialty occupation argument for your H-1B petition considerably stronger.
Understand the H-1B lottery timing for your offer
H-1B petitions are cap-subject, meaning offers need to align with the April filing window and October start date. Discuss timeline constraints with employers early so neither side is caught off guard, and ask whether cap-exempt options apply to their organization.
Australian citizens should explore the E-3 visa
The E-3 visa is an often-overlooked alternative with no lottery and a significantly faster path to approval. Security Specialist roles that meet the specialty occupation standard qualify, making it a practical option for Australian nationals already in conversations with U.S. employers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Security Specialist roles qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, but it depends on the specific role. H-1B visa eligibility requires the position to qualify as a specialty occupation, meaning it normally requires at least a bachelor's degree in a directly related field like cybersecurity, computer science, or information systems. Roles focused on physical security or general guard supervision are less likely to qualify. Cybersecurity-oriented Security Specialist roles, especially those requiring technical certifications, have a much stronger specialty occupation argument.
Can I be sponsored for a Security Specialist role if I don't have a U.S. security clearance?
Many Security Specialist positions, particularly in the private sector and unclassified areas of government contracting, don't require clearances. Security clearances are generally restricted to U.S. citizens, so employers actively sponsoring international candidates typically structure roles around non-classified work. Always confirm with the employer whether clearance is required or merely listed as a preference before investing time in the application process.
What degree does USCIS expect for a sponsored Security Specialist position?
USCIS typically expects a bachelor's degree or higher in a directly related field, most commonly cybersecurity, information assurance, computer science, or information systems management. Degrees in unrelated fields can work if paired with substantial relevant experience and professional certifications like CISSP or CISM, though a non-matching degree will require a stronger evidentiary case in the H-1B petition. An immigration attorney can assess your specific combination.
How do I find Security Specialist jobs that offer visa sponsorship?
Most job postings don't advertise sponsorship clearly, which makes filtering manually time-consuming and unreliable. Migrate Mate is built specifically to surface jobs that sponsor work visas, so you can browse Security Specialist openings without having to guess which employers are actually open to international candidates. Focusing on large defense contractors, tech companies, and financial institutions also improves your odds significantly.
Are Security Specialist roles harder to get sponsored for than other tech roles?
The specialty occupation determination can be trickier for Security Specialist roles than for pure software engineering positions, because the title covers a wide range of job functions. Roles with physical security responsibilities or generalist duties face more USCIS scrutiny. Cybersecurity-focused positions with technical depth, specialized tools, and degree requirements written into the job description are considerably easier to sponsor and less likely to receive a Request for Evidence.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Security Specialist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.