Microsoft Defender Implementation Specialist

Microsoft Defender Implementation Specialist (6-12 Month Contract)
Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Waterford

Are you a seasoned cybersecurity professional with deep expertise in Microsoft Defender? Join our client's dynamic team across Ireland on a 6-12 month contract, delivering best-in-class endpoint protection and threat-hunting solutions. With competitive rates of €600-€750 per day, this role is perfect for a highly motivated specialist who thrives in diverse environments, from Dublin and Malahide to Cork, Waterford, and Portlaoise.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end deployment of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Office 365, and Cloud Apps across Windows and macOS estates

• Design and implement advanced threat protection rules, custom detection analytics, and automated response playbooks

• Conduct workshops and handover sessions with IT operations and security teams to ensure smooth adoption

• Perform proactive threat hunting, incident investigation, and root-cause analysis using Defender's advanced hunting queries

• Develop and maintain operational documentation, runbooks, and best-practice guidelines

• Collaborate closely with network, infrastructure, and application teams to optimize security posture and minimize business disruption

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven track record implementing Microsoft Defender solutions at enterprise scale

• Deep understanding of Microsoft 365 Defender portal, SIEM integration (e.g., Sentinel), and EDR/MDR concepts

• Hands-on experience with PowerShell scripting to automate response and remediation tasks

• Solid knowledge of Windows security architecture, Active Directory, Azure AD, and Group Policy

• Familiarity with macOS endpoint protection and cross-platform security integration

• Excellent communication skills and ability to lead technical workshops and stakeholder briefings

• Relevant certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst or comparable

What's On Offer

• Daily contract rate of €600-€750, dependent on experience and location

• Hybrid and remote working options from our offices in Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Waterford, or Portlaoise

• Exposure to cutting-edge Microsoft security technologies and senior security architects

• Opportunity to shape and mature the client's security operations center (SOC) capabilities

• Flexible contract duration (6-12 months) with potential for extension

How to Apply
To be considered, please submit your CV and a brief cover note highlighting your Microsoft Defender achievements to Chris Prendergast with the subject line "Defender Specialist - Ireland Contract." Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within five working days.

DCS Recruitment and all associated companies are committed to creating a working environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated fairly, regardless of gender, gender identity, disability, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or transgender status, age, or nationality