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Computer Network Defense Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NewGen

Cyber Network Defense Analyst III

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

Must be able to obtain DHS Suitability * BS Computer Science, Cyber Security, Computer Engineering, or related degree; or HS Diploma & 7-9 years of network investigations experience * 5+ years of ...

Leidos

Cyber Network Defense Analyst

Arlington, VA

$57K - $104K/yr

Implement a Computer Network Defense (CND) team to respond to computer security incidents, Information Condition (INFOCON) level changes, and Classified Message Incidents (CMIs) * Work with entities ...

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Computer Network Defense information

What is computer network defense?

Computer Network Defense (CND) refers to the strategies, technologies, and processes used to protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and other security threats. CND professionals monitor network traffic, detect and respond to security incidents, and implement measures to prevent future attacks. Their work is critical for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems, especially in organizations that handle sensitive data. CND also involves regular vulnerability assessments, security policy enforcement, and incident response planning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in computer network defense?

To excel in Computer Network Defense, professionals need a strong understanding of network protocols, cybersecurity principles, and threat analysis, often supported by a degree in information security or computer science. Familiarity with intrusion detection systems (IDS), firewalls, SIEM platforms, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for proactively identifying vulnerabilities, responding to incidents, and safeguarding organizational networks from evolving cyber threats.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in computer network defense roles?

Professionals in Computer Network Defense often face the challenge of keeping up with rapidly evolving cyber threats and attack techniques. The role requires continuous learning and real-time problem-solving as new vulnerabilities and exploits emerge frequently. Team members must also balance proactive threat hunting with responding to immediate incidents, often collaborating closely with IT, security operations, and management to ensure a resilient defense posture. Adaptability, strong communication, and an analytical mindset are key to thriving in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Computer Network Defense vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectComputer Network DefenseCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentFocus on protecting network infrastructure, monitoring network traffic, and responding to network threatsBroader security analysis, including system vulnerabilities, incident response, and security policies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in government, military, and large enterprise networksAcross various industries including finance, healthcare, and technology

Computer Network Defense and Cybersecurity Analyst roles share similar certifications and work environments, but Network Defense specializes in protecting network infrastructure specifically, while Cybersecurity Analysts handle a broader range of security tasks across systems and applications.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Network Defense jobs in Virginia?

For Computer Network Defense jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Network Defense jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Network Defense jobs in Virginia are:

Computer Network Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Network Defense job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution.

Computer Network Defense Analyst (CNDA) III

NewGen

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Our Partner, as a prime contractor to a US Government Customer, performs investigations to develop a preliminary diagnosis of the severity of breaches. They provide remote and onsite advanced technical assistance, proactive hunting, rapid onsite incident response, and immediate investigation and resolution using host-based, network-based and cloud-based cybersecurity analysis capabilities. Contract personnel provide front line response for digital forensics/incident response (DFIR) and proactively hunting for malicious cyber activity.They are seeking Cyber Network Defense Analysts (CNDA) to support this critical customer mission.
The Computer Network Defense Analyst uses information collected from a variety of sources to monitor network activity and analyze it for evidence of suspicious behavior. Monitoring and analysis are performed to identify and report events that occur, or might occur, within the network, in order to protect information, information systems, and networks from threats. CNDAs review data collected to analyze cyber events, and the network environment, to find trends, patterns or anomaly correlations that indicate more serious attacks or future threats. The CNDAs will recommend proactive measures to contain the incident. These proactive measurers include, but are not limited to, identification of intruder local changes/suspect interactions, isolation, in-depth digital media analysis, consultation with law enforcement or counterintelligence organizations, development of signatures to detect this malicious behavior and development and deployment of eradication tools.
Hybrid work may be allowed for this role.
Responsibilities
The majority of the CNDA's time (75%) will be spent executing the following tasks:
  • Characterize and analyze network traffic to identify anomalous activity and potential threats to network resources
  • Coordinate with enterprise-wide cyber defense staff to validate network alerts
  • Document and escalate incidents (including event's history, status, and potential impact for further action) that may cause ongoing and immediate impact to the environment
  • Perform cyber defense trend analysis and reporting
  • Perform event correlation using information gathered from a variety of sources within the enterprise to gain situational awareness and determine the effectiveness of an observed attack
  • Provide daily summary reports of network events and activity relevant to cyber defense practices
  • Receive and analyze network alerts from various sources within the enterprise and determine possible causes of alerts
  • Provide timely detection, identification, and alerting of possible attacks/intrusions, anomalous activities, and misuse activities and distinguish these incidents and events from benign activities
  • Use cyber defense tools for continual monitoring and analysis of system activity to identify malicious activity
  • Analyze identified malicious activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information
  • Determine tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for intrusion sets
  • Examine network topologies to understand data flows through the network
  • Identify and analyze anomalies in network traffic using metadata
  • Conduct research, analysis, and correlation across a wide variety of all source data sets (indications and warnings)
  • Validate intrusion detection system (IDS) alerts against network traffic using packet analysis tools
  • Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
  • Reconstruct a malicious attack or activity based off network traffic
  • Identify network mapping and operating system (OS) fingerprinting activities
  • Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network environment or enclave
  • Notify designated managers, cyber incident responders, and cybersecurity service provider team members of suspected cyber incidents and articulate the event's history, status, and potential impact for further action in accordance with the organization's cyber incident response plan
Approximately 25% of the CNDA's time will be spent executing the following tasks:
  • Prepare and update manuals, instructions, and operating procedures
  • Evaluate established methods and procedures and prepare recommendations for changes in methods and practices where appropriate
  • Plan and carry out difficult and complex assignments and develop new methods, approaches, and procedures
  • Conduct analyses and recommend resolution of complex issues affecting the specialty area
  • Ensure optimal use of commercially available products
  • Prepare and present reports
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of installed systems and services
Requirements
  • U.S. Citizenship
  • Active TS/SCI Clearance
  • Ability to obtain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability
  • BS Computer Science, Cyber Security, Computer Engineering, or related degree; or HS Diploma & 7-9 years of network investigations experience
  • 5+ years of direct relevant experience in cyber defense analysis using leading edge technologies and industry standard cyber defense tools- Experience successfully developing and deploying signatures
  • Experience detecting host and network-based intrusions via intrusion detection technologies (e.g., Snort)
  • Experience implementing incident handling methodologies
  • Experience implementing protocol analyzers
  • Experience collecting data from a variety of cyber defense resources
  • Experience reading and interpreting signatures (e.g. snort)
  • Experience performing packet-level analysis
  • Experience conducting trend analysis
Desired Skills
  • One or more of the following professional certifications: GNFA, GCIH, GCIA, GSEC, CASP+, CySA+, PaLMS, FedVTE
  • GSEC (SANS401), Arcsight (or other SEIM solution), Network+, Security+ and Python programming experience would be ideal
  • Strong math and science background.
  • Experience with Carnegie Mellon SiLK tool suite

About Us
For more than 20 years, NewGen Technologies has solved our clients' toughest IT challenges with integrity, security, and outstanding service by delivering both technology and talent. We have helped secure borders, have used artificial intelligence (AI) to fight terror, aided the identification of criminals, and have helped to prevent crime through the introduction of biometrics. Our team of Highly Cleared Specialists have hard-to-find skills and expertise in a wide spectrum of technologies to provide solutions that transform business processes and solve problems of national significance. #CJ

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