What is Okta?

Okta is a cloud-based identity and access management (IAM) platform that helps organizations securely manage and streamline user authentication and authorization across applications, devices, and services.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what Okta does:

Core Functions:

  1. Single Sign-On (SSO): Allows users to log in once and access multiple applications without needing to log in again.
  2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification beyond just a password.
  3. User Lifecycle Management: Automates user provisioning and deprovisioning across apps based on role changes, onboarding, or offboarding.
  4. Directory Integration: Connects with existing identity sources like Microsoft Active Directory or LDAP.
  5. Access Management: Provides granular access control policies and visibility into who accessed what and when.
  6. API Access Management: Secures access to APIs and supports OAuth and OpenID Connect standards.

Use Cases:

  • Enabling secure access to cloud and on-premise apps.
  • Supporting Zero Trust security models.
  • Managing workforce identity and customer identity (CIAM).

Popular Among:

  • Enterprises of all sizes.
  • Organizations embracing cloud/SaaS ecosystems.
  • Companies with hybrid IT environments.

What does an Okta engineer do?

An Okta engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing identity and access management (IAM) solutions using the Okta platform.

Their goal is to ensure secure, seamless access to systems and applications for users across the organization.

Here’s a breakdown of what an Okta engineer typically does:

Core Responsibilities:

1. Okta Integration & Configuration

  • Set up and configure Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
  • Integrate Okta with enterprise applications (e.g., Salesforce, Office 365, ServiceNow, AWS).
  • Connect Okta with directories like Active Directory or LDAP.

2. Identity Lifecycle Management

  • Automate user provisioning/deprovisioning across systems.
  • Implement Just-In-Time (JIT) provisioning and SCIM integrations.
  • Create workflows for onboarding, offboarding, and role changes.

3. Access Policies & Security

  • Define and enforce access control policies, including conditional access.
  • Implement Zero Trust principles using Okta’s capabilities.
  • Monitor and respond to security incidents related to identity.

4. API & Developer Support

  • Use Okta APIs and SDKs to extend functionality or integrate with custom apps.
  • Support OAuth2.0, OpenID Connect, and SAML implementations.

5. Governance & Compliance

  • Work with compliance teams to meet audit and regulatory requirements.
  • Generate reports and logs for user activity and access reviews.

6. Ongoing Maintenance & Support

  • Monitor the health and performance of Okta services.
  • Handle support tickets and user issues related to authentication.
  • Stay updated with new Okta features and security best practices.

Skills & Tools Often Required:

  • Okta Admin/Developer experience.
  • SAML, OAuth2, OpenID Connect.
  • PowerShell, Python, or REST APIs.
  • Experience with Active Directory, Azure AD.
  • IAM best practices and Zero Trust principles.

Sample Okta engineer job description 

Here’s a sample job description for an Okta Engineer role, tailored for an enterprise environment:

Job Title: Okta Engineer

Location: [City, State or Remote]

Department: IT Security / Identity & Access Management

Employment Type: Full-time

Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Okta Engineer to join our Identity & Access Management (IAM) team. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, and ongoing support of our Okta platform, enabling secure, efficient, and user-friendly access to enterprise systems and applications. This role is critical to our Zero Trust architecture and broader cybersecurity strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, deploy, and maintain Okta Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) integrations across SaaS and on-prem applications.
  • Implement and manage lifecycle management processes including user provisioning, deprovisioning, and role-based access control (RBAC).
  • Integrate Okta with internal identity providers like Active Directory, LDAP, and cloud platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS).
  • Develop and enforce access control policies, ensuring compliance with internal security policies and industry standards.
  • Collaborate with application owners and business units to onboard apps into Okta.
  • Work with developers to enable secure authentication for internal/external apps using SAML, OAuth, and OIDC protocols.
  • Support security audits, compliance initiatives, and generate reports on authentication activity.
  • Monitor system health, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements to the IAM environment.
  • Stay current with Okta feature updates, security trends, and recommend best practices.

Qualifications:

Required:

  • 3+ years of experience with Okta administration and integration.
  • Hands-on experience with SAML 2.0, OAuth 2.0, OIDC, and SCIM.
  • Proficiency in scripting and automation (e.g., PowerShell, Python, or Okta Workflows).
  • Strong knowledge of IAM concepts, Zero Trust, and least privilege access.
  • Experience integrating with cloud applications (e.g., Office 365, Salesforce, ServiceNow).
  • Familiarity with directory services like Active Directory and LDAP.

Preferred:

  • Okta Certified Professional or Okta Certified Administrator.
  • Experience with API access management, custom login pages, and Okta SDKs.
  • Experience with security tools like SIEMs, CASB, and endpoint protection.

Soft Skills:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate in a team setting.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary and performance bonus.
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Remote work flexibility.
  • Training & certification reimbursement.