Security Operations Specialist

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That’s why we’re not just transforming cancer care—we’re changing lives.

We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: “What would I do if this patient were my mom?” That question drives everything we do.

But our mission doesn’t stop with cancer. We're pushing the frontiers of medicine and leading a revolution in healthcare—driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose.

Join us in our mission to improve the human condition across multiple diseases. If you're passionate about meaningful work and want to be part of something bigger than yourself, Caris is where your impact begins.

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly responsive Security Operations Center (SOC) Specialist to support 24/7 security operations in a dynamic, fast-growing public tech-bio environment.
The SOC Specialist is responsible for monitoring physical security systems, responding to alarms and incidents, and supporting laboratory and facility-related emergency coordination. This role serves as the first line of detection and response to protect employees, facilities, research environments, and intellectual property.

Job Responsibilities

• Monitor access control systems, CCTV platforms, intrusion detection systems, and environmental/life safety alarms.
• Respond to alarms and alerts in accordance with established SOPs and escalation protocols.
• Dispatch security personnel, facilities teams, or emergency responders as appropriate.
• Provide real-time situational awareness during incidents.
• Document all incidents accurately and thoroughly in incident management systems.
• Process badge access requests in accordance with company policy and approval workflows.
• Conduct access audits and ensure compliance with access governance standards.
• Deactivate access credentials in alignment with HR offboarding procedures.
• Troubleshoot access control issues and coordinate with technical teams when needed.
• Retrieve and review surveillance footage to support investigations or incident inquiries.
• Export and preserve video evidence following chain-of-custody procedures.
• Maintain awareness of camera functionality and report system issues.
• Monitor and escalate lab-related environmental alarms (e.g., temperature, freezer alerts, power interruptions, life safety systems).
• Coordinate with Facilities, EHS, and lab operations during emergencies.
• Support business continuity and emergency response procedures.
• Follow established playbooks, escalation matrices, and compliance standards.
• Participate in shift handoffs and provide detailed briefings to incoming operators.
• Identify potential security risks or process improvements and escalate appropriately.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive matters.

Required Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in a security operations center (SOC), physical security, dispatch, emergency communications, or a related operational field.
• Hands-on experience using access control systems, CCTV platforms, and alarm monitoring software.
• Ability to assess, triage, and prioritize multiple incidents simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong situational awareness and ability to identify potential risks or anomalies.
• Demonstrated technical aptitude and comfort learning new security systems and tools.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and general internet-based business applications.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proven sound judgment under pressure and during critical incidents.
• High levels of reliability, accountability, and professionalism.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as operational needs require.
• Able to work Friday-Saturday 6am-2pm and Sunday-Tuesday 2pm-10pm

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in biotech, life sciences, healthcare, or other regulated environments.
• Prior experience in a 24/7 operations environment.
• Knowledge of incident management systems and evidence handling procedures.
• Professional security training or certifications (e.g., ASIS certifications or similar).

Physical Demands

• Must possess ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to work extended hours during implementations and on-call rotations.

Training

• All job specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on the job functions associated with this employee.

Other

• Travel and Response
• This position requires local travel between Arizona sites and some evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Job may require after-hours response to emergency issues.
• Periodically scheduled on-call may require after-hours response for technical emergencies not explicitly related to assigned job responsibilities.

Conditions of Employment:  Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check ( applicable for certain positions) and reference verification.

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Caris Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.