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Computer Network Defense Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... Computer Network Defense incidents - Analyzes identified malicious network activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information - Collects network ...

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... Computer Network Defense incidents - Analyzes identified malicious network activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information - Collects network ...

... Computer Network Defense guidance and reports on incident findings to appropriate constituencies - Collects network intrusion artifacts (e.g., PCAP, domains, URI's, certificates, etc.) and uses ...

... Computer Network Defense guidance and reports on incident findings to appropriate constituencies; - Collects network intrusion artifacts (e.g., PCAP, domains, URI's, certificates, etc.) and uses ...

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Computer Network Defense information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Computer Network Defense, and why are they important?

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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Computer Network Defense job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 18% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Cyber Network Forensic Analyst III

Nightwing

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is supporting a U.S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government agencies and critical asset owners who experience cyber-attacks, providing immediate investigation and resolution. Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop mitigation plans, and assist with the restoration of services. Nightwing is seeking a Network Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.
Responsibilities:
- Assists the Government lead in coordinating teams in preliminary incident response investigations
- Assists the Government lead with interfacing with the customer while on site
- Determines appropriate courses of actions in response to identified and analyses anomalous network activity
- Assesses network topology and device configurations identifying critical security concerns and providing security best practice recommendations
- Assists with the writing and publishing of Computer Network Defense guidance and reports on incident findings to appropriate constituencies
- Collects network intrusion artifacts (e.g., PCAP, domains, URI's, certificates, etc.) and uses discovered data to enable mitigation of potential Computer Network Defense incidents
- Analyzes identified malicious network activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information
- Collects network device integrity data and analyze for signs of tampering or compromise
- Assists with real-time CND incident handling (i.e., forensic collections, intrusion correlation and tracking, threat analysis, and advising on system remediation) tasks to support onsite engagements
Required Skills:
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must have an active TS/SCI clearance
- Must be able to obtain DHS Suitability
- 8+ years of directly relevant experience in network investigations
- In depth knowledge of CND policies, procedures and regulations
- In depth knowledge of TCP/IP protocols
- In depth knowledge of standard protocols - ICMP, HTTP/S, DNS, SSH, SMTP, SMB, NFS, etc.
- In depth knowledge and experience of Wifi networking
- In depth knowledge and experience of network topologies - DMZ's, WAN's, etc.
- Substantial knowledge of Splunk (or other SIEM's)
- Understanding of MITRE Adversary Tactics, Techniques and Common Knowledge (ATT&CK)
- Knowledge of Computer Network Defense policies, procedures, and regulations
- Knowledge of defense-in-depth principles and general attack stages with respect to network security architecture
- Ability to characterize and analyze network traffic to identify anomalous activity and potential threats to network resources
- Ability to identify and analyze anomalies in network traffic using metadata
- Experience with reconstructing a malicious attack or activity based on network traffic
- Experience examining network topologies to understand data flows through the network
- Must be able to work collaboratively across physical locations
Desired Skills:
- Substantial knowledge of network device integrity concepts and methodologies
- Proficiency with network analysis software (e.g. Wireshark)
- Proficiency with carving and extracting information from PCAP data
- Proficiency with non-traditional network traffic (e.g. Command and Control)
- Proficiency with preserving evidence integrity according to standard operating procedures or national standards
- Proficiency with designing cyber security systems and environments in a Linux and/or Windows environment
- Proficiency with virtualized environments
Required Education:
BS Computer Science, Cyber Security, Computer Engineering, or related degree; or HS Diploma & 10+ years of network investigations experience.
Desired Certifications:
- DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, CSSP Analyst
- DoD 8140.01 GCIA, GCIH, CSSP Analyst/CSSP Incident Responder
- DoD 8140.01 CEH, CSSP Analyst
- SANS GIAC GNFA preferred
Arlington, VA
At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.