John Garcia Jr

GRC Analyst | Compliance & Risk Management | NIST CSF · ISO 27001 · SOC 2 · Python | Open to Entry-Level Roles

Greater Houston

About

You don't need another analyst who only knows the theory. You need someone who's already managed risk at scale, before they ever opened a security textbook. --- Here's my turning point. Nineteen years at Starbucks. Not as a barista who stayed too long. As a leader who ran compliance-driven operations, trained cross-functional teams, and troubleshot complex systems in real time, every single shift. The moment I realized ops risk and security risk are the same discipline with different vocabulary, I went all in. --- What that means for you: I bring 19 years of real-world incident triage, reframed for GRC. I've documented workflows for 100+ person teams. I've rebuilt broken processes under live-broadcast pressure. I've applied NIST CSF, risk frameworks, and compliance controls to hands-on labs, internships, and an active GRC portfolio. I don't just know what a risk assessment looks like. I know what it feels like when one fails at 5am with no backup plan. --- I work best with: Teams that need a junior analyst who hits the ground running, someone who asks sharp questions, documents everything, and doesn't need hand-holding on professional accountability. I'm not the right fit for: Organizations looking for a traditional straight-from-college hire with no operational context and no sense of urgency. --- GRC toolkit: Frameworks: NIST CSF · ISO 27001 · SOC 2 · NIST AI RMF Documentation: Risk Registers · BIA · Gap Assessments · Audit Checklists · Policy Writing Technical: Python · Linux · SQL · GitHub Certs: Google Cybersecurity · ISO 27001 (LinkedIn) · SOC 2 (LinkedIn) · Splunk · ISC2 Candidate --- If you're building a GRC or compliance team and want someone who's been accountable at scale before the job title said so - Let's connect. My GitHub portfolio and calendar are open.

Experience

  • AI Trainer (Contract) at Handshake
    Feb 2026 - Present · 5 mos

    Conduct structured evaluations of AI-generated outputs to ensure accuracy, consistency, and adherence to project guidelines. Apply analytical judgment, documentation skills, and quality standards to support model improvement and safe system behavior.

  • Beta Tester for an AI Cybersecurity Assistant at Askeal
    Feb 2026 - Present · 5 mos

  • Graphic Developer at TV GRAPHICS, LLC
    Jun 2025 - Present · 1 yr 1 mo

    Develop, manage, and execute graphics systems for real-time on-air broadcasts in dynamic and high-pressure production environments. Collaborate with producers, directors, and technical teams to ensure all graphics are correct, timely, and on-brand. Adapt quickly to changing production needs and be prepared to troubleshoot issues in real time. Support pre-production setup, rehearsals, and live monitoring for technical integrity. Display strong attention to detail and a commitment to broadcast quality at all times, and maintain organization of templates, files, and production workflows.

  • Founder • GG Labs (Garcia Group Labs) at GG Labs (Garcia Group Labs)
    Feb 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 5 mos

    GG Labs (Garcia Group Labs) is my independent studio where I design, build, and deliver digital solutions for individuals and small businesses. What started as a design-focused brand has grown into a broader technical practice blending creativity, documentation, and problem‑solving. Key Work & Responsibilities: - Build and launch websites, branding systems, and digital assets for clients - Develop clean, functional web experiences using modern tools and workflows - Create documentation, requirements, and project scopes for client deliverables - Manage communication, timelines, and end‑to‑end project ownership - Apply technical thinking to improve processes, structure, and user experience - Expand into cybersecurity/GRC foundations and technical systems work

  • Python Development Intern at Synet Technologies
    Apr 2026 - May 2026 · 2 mos