Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: SSO • HSM • RBAC

OpenID Connect

Term from Information Security industry explained for recruiters

OpenID Connect is a security system that helps websites and apps verify who users are when they try to log in. Think of it like a digital ID card that lets users sign into multiple websites using one account (like signing in with Google or Facebook). It's an improved version of older login systems, making it easier and safer for users to access different services without creating new passwords for each one. When you see this on a resume, it usually means the person has experience with implementing secure login methods that work across multiple applications.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented OpenID Connect authentication system for enterprise applications serving 10,000+ users

Integrated OpenID Connect and OIDC solutions with existing security infrastructure

Led migration from legacy authentication systems to OpenID Connect protocols

Typical job title: "Identity and Access Management Engineers"

Also try searching for:

IAM Engineer Security Engineer Authentication Specialist Identity Management Developer Security Solutions Architect Access Management Specialist Security Integration Engineer

Where to Find Identity and Access Management Engineers

Online Communities

Professional Networks

Events & Conferences

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you explain the benefits of OpenID Connect to business stakeholders?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to explain technical concepts in business terms, focusing on improved user experience, reduced security risks, and lower maintenance costs. Should mention single sign-on benefits and regulatory compliance advantages.

Q: What considerations would you make when implementing OpenID Connect across multiple applications?

Expected Answer: Should discuss user experience, security requirements, compatibility with existing systems, and scalability needs. Should mention planning for different types of users and access levels.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main differences between OAuth2 and OpenID Connect?

Expected Answer: Should explain that OAuth2 is for authorization (giving permission) while OpenID Connect adds user authentication (proving identity). Should be able to explain this using simple examples.

Q: How do you handle security testing for OpenID Connect implementations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic security testing approaches, including checking for common vulnerabilities, testing user login flows, and verifying proper token handling.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is Single Sign-On and how does OpenID Connect enable it?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of logging in once to access multiple services, and how OpenID Connect facilitates this process.

Q: Can you explain what an ID Token is in simple terms?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe an ID Token as a secure digital passport that contains verified information about a user, like their name and email.