Ready to make a real impact in cybersecurity? At Critical Start, we're not just protecting organizations; we're redefining how it's done. We're a team united by an inspiring purpose: to stop breaches, simplify security, and shape the future of cyber defense. If you're passionate about cutting-edge technology, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want your work to truly matter, you've found your home.
We deliver 24x7 AI-accelerated, human-validated detection, investigation, and response across IT and OT. This means we cut through the noise, investigate real threats, and take trusted, SLA-backed action—all powered by the brightest minds and the latest AI. Since 2012, we've been helping organizations outpace evolving attacks with faster response, fewer escalations, and measurable risk reduction.
Innovation isn't just a buzzword here; it's our DNA. We pioneered the first MOBILESOC app for on-the-go detection and response, infused AI into automated alert resolution to eliminate noise, and slashed investigation time by an astounding 99.3%. We're transforming how security teams work, and you could be a part of it. From AI-assisted triage to analyst copilots that elevate human expertise, we combine machine intelligence with human judgment to deliver outcomes our customer’s trust.
If you're looking for a high-trust, high-impact team where your ideas are amplified by AI and valued by colleagues and customers alike, Critical Start is the place for you. Come build the future of cybersecurity with us.
Want to hear from our team? Watch these videos to gain insights into life at Critical Start or check out our Glassdoor reviews for an inside look.
As the go-to expert for Microsoft Security, you confidently address customer questions and provide practical solutions. You have deep knowledge of Microsoft security products, can optimize configurations for complex requirements, and balance business needs with security best practices.
You act as a trusted advisor, delivering exceptional value through clear guidance, effective project execution, and strategic recommendations that resonate with both technical teams and organizational leaders. You stay ahead of the curve by continuously researching Microsoft technologies and cybersecurity trends, applying that knowledge to help customers stay secure and successful.
Essential Functions:
Drive high-quality Microsoft Security project delivery by building strong relationships with customer stakeholders and understanding their requirements.
Manage the full project lifecycle from exploration to deployment and operationalization of Microsoft Security solutions.
Deploy Microsoft Security solutions hands-on, including Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Sentinel, and Purview.
Assess client environments and provide actionable Microsoft security recommendations.
Develop deployment models and templates for Microsoft Security projects.
Engage with clients to present Microsoft Security solutions, demonstrate Azure Security capabilities, and create proposals and Statements of Work (SOWs).
Build and maintain trusted, long-term customer relationships.
Continuously update knowledge of Microsoft 365 and Azure security features and evolving customer needs.
Primary Responsibilities:
Collaborate with customers and project managers to define and manage project delivery expectations and outcomes.
Scope and estimate Microsoft Security-focused professional services projects.
Contribute to writing Statements of Work (SOWs).
Provide architecture reviews and milestone sessions for project sponsors.
Communicate effectively with technical and business stakeholders.
Keep customers informed of new Microsoft 365 and Azure security capabilities and scenarios.
Secondary Responsibilities:
Serve as a delivery lead for Microsoft Security engagements.
Document and share technical best practices and insights with customers and the community.
Present solution demonstrations and virtual whiteboard sessions to executive stakeholders (CIO/CISO/CTO).
Tertiary Responsibilities:
Create content such as blog posts, datasheets, and webinars focused on Microsoft Security.
Collaborate with Microsoft technical teams.
Act as a Technical Specialist for Microsoft sellers (AE, ATS, MW SSP, ESE).
Demonstrate Microsoft security product functionality.
Required Qualifications:
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 Defender, Microsoft Sentinel, or Purview.
Experience designing, deploying, and administering Microsoft solutions, including Entra, Intune, Microsoft 365 Defender (MDO, MDE, MDCA, MDI), and Purview (MIP, DLP, IRM).
Competency in security monitoring for Microsoft cloud technologies.
Strong skills in Entra, including Conditional Access, RBAC, and PIM.
Ability to follow established processes, adapt to ambiguity, learn quickly, and take initiative.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including technical documentation and presentations.
Proven track record in troubleshooting complex issues and executing test plans integrating Microsoft technologies.
Deep technical experience with two or more Microsoft technologies: Microsoft Defender XDR (Entra, Entra ID, MDO, MDE, MDCA, MDI, Defender for Cloud), Intune, Microsoft Sentinel, Purview.
Preferred Qualifications:
Microsoft Certifications such as AZ-500 or SC-200; SC-100, SC-300, or SC-401 a plus.
Prior consulting experience preferred.
Familiarity with security standards (e.g., NIST, CIS) and compliance standards (e.g., PCI, HIPAA).
Strong understanding of risk assessment, security assessment, and vulnerability management using Microsoft solutions.
Imagine a dynamic, enjoyable, and rewarding work environment. We are professionals, and the work we do holds immense significance, like saving our customers from potential disasters. However, we believe in not taking ourselves too seriously.
Prefer a casual dress code every day? No problem, as we find comfort enhances our thinking.
Our workplace in Plano, TX offers open offices, collaborative meeting spaces, phone rooms, and wellness rooms. In the breakroom, friendly competition arises with games like ping-pong, bubble hockey machine, foosball, or the gaming machine. What harm does a little healthy competition among friends do?
What does our Compensation and Benefits package entail?
We prioritize your privacy and security. Please note that Critical Start will never request financial information or sensitive personal data during the interview process. If you encounter any suspicious requests, do not respond and contact us directly at recruiting@criticalstart.com. Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and trustworthy hiring experience.
Critical Start welcomes people from all backgrounds and walks of life. One of our core values is to “Do what’s best for our employees,” and that starts with the hiring process by finding the best candidates and providing an environment that upholds equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants, strictly prohibiting any form of discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy encompasses all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Mental and Physical Requirements
It's important to note that specific physical and mental requirements may vary depending on the nature of the office job, organization, and individual responsibilities.
Physical:
Mental:
For positions that can or will be performed, in whole or in part, remotely within the U.S., range and benefits information for this position are being included in accordance with requirements of various state/local pay transparency legislation. Please note that salaries may vary for different individuals in the same role based on several factors, including but not limited to location of the role, individual competencies, education/professional certifications, experience, performance in the role and potential for revenue generation (sales roles only).
Compensation:
The total compensation range (base) being offered for this role is [$120,000 - $150,000 USD].
Additional Compensation:
This role is eligible for the following: performance-based bonus compensation
Employment Benefits:
Comprehensive health benefits with generous employer contributions for medical, dental, and vision, unlimited PTO (Paid Time Off) policy, paid Parental and Military Leave, dental and vision plan, Employer-provided Life Insurance (up to $100K coverage), Long-Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability coverage, 401(k) Plan with Matching Program, 24/7/365 availability of Employee Assistance Program.
Application Deadline:
The application deadline for this position is January 31, 2026.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are invited to visit our career site and apply for the position: https://www.criticalstart.com/careers/
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