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Counterterrorism Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Mid-Level Counterterrorism Watchlist Analyst will leverage numerous analytic tools and databases to evaluate information that bolsters the U.S. Government's response to and prevention of ...

Supporting continuous mission operations and evolving counterterrorism requirements, including shift-based coverage and rapidly changing operational priorities. Required Qualifications * Experience ...

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Counterterrorism information

See Virginia salary details

$21.3K

$81.7K

$148.7K

How much do counterterrorism jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for counterterrorism in Virginia is $81,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $102,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is counterterrorism?

Counterterrorism refers to the practices, strategies, and tactics that governments, military, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies use to prevent, deter, and respond to acts of terrorism. This field involves identifying potential threats, disrupting terrorist networks, and protecting citizens and critical infrastructure. Counterterrorism professionals may work in analysis, operations, policy development, or fieldwork, collaborating both domestically and internationally. The goal is to reduce the risk and impact of terrorist activities while upholding laws and human rights.

What are the qualifications to get a job in counterterrorism?

A bachelor's or master's degree in national security studies or international affairs is needed to obtain a job in counterterrorism. Specialization in a specific world region is beneficial. You must be aware of the United States national security interest and have research expertise in regards to international affairs. You also need to pass a background check, polygraph interview, and psychological and medical exams. Being bilingual or having foreign language capability is preferred. Other qualifications include an interest in international affairs, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking skills to analyze evidence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in counterterrorism, and why are they important?

To thrive in counterterrorism, you need a background in criminal justice, international relations, or security studies, often supplemented with relevant law enforcement or military experience. Familiarity with intelligence analysis tools, surveillance technologies, and sometimes security clearances or specialized certifications such as Certified Counter Terrorism Practitioner (CCTP) are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, cultural awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for anticipating threats and collaborating across agencies. These skills and qualifications enable professionals to identify, prevent, and respond to complex security threats effectively.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in counterterrorism roles?

Professionals in counterterrorism often encounter the challenge of responding quickly to evolving threats while managing large amounts of sensitive information. The work is highly collaborative, frequently requiring coordination with law enforcement agencies, intelligence organizations, and international partners. Additionally, maintaining confidentiality and operating under high-pressure situations are common aspects of the role. Adapting to rapidly changing security landscapes and staying updated with the latest tactics used by adversaries are also crucial for success.

What is the difference between Counterterrorism vs Intelligence Analyst?

AspectCounterterrorismIntelligence Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, specialized training in terrorism and securityDegree in political science, international relations, or related fields; security clearances often required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, military, law enforcement, field operationsIntelligence agencies, government offices, data analysis settings
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies like DHS, FBI, militaryIntelligence agencies, defense contractors, government sectors

Counterterrorism focuses on preventing and responding to terrorist threats through specialized operations and security measures. Intelligence analysts gather, interpret, and analyze data to support national security efforts. While both roles require security clearances and analytical skills, counterterrorism is more operational and field-oriented, whereas intelligence analysis emphasizes data interpretation and strategic planning.

How do you get a job in counterterrorism?

To work in counterterrorism, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, security studies, or a related field, along with relevant experience in law enforcement, intelligence, or military service. Security clearances and specialized training, such as in intelligence analysis or cybersecurity, are often required. Building skills in analysis, communication, and understanding of national security issues can improve job prospects in this field.

Is counterterrorism a good career?

Counterterrorism is a specialized field within national security that involves identifying and preventing terrorist threats, often requiring skills in intelligence analysis, law enforcement, and security operations. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public safety and national security, but it may involve high stress, irregular hours, and rigorous background checks. Success in this field often depends on relevant education, experience, and security clearances.

What jobs can you get with a counterterrorism degree?

A counterterrorism degree can lead to roles such as counterterrorism analyst, intelligence officer, security consultant, or law enforcement officer. These positions often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of security protocols, and sometimes security clearances or specialized training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counterterrorism jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Counterterrorism jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Counterterrorism jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Counterterrorism jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Counterterrorism jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Counterterrorism job openings:

Infographic showing various Counterterrorism job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,746 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Counterterrorism (CT) Analyst with Security Clearance

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$109K - $171K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities Noblis is seeking WMD-CT Analyst(s) to work in dynamic mission-oriented environment within McLean, Virginia. Job Responsibilities: * Integrating and assessing Intelligence Community collection efforts against WMD and counterterrorism (WMD-CT) targets to evaluate collection effectiveness and mission coverage. * Evaluating collection capabilities, identifying intelligence gaps and emerging trends, and recommending improvements to collection strategies and priorities. * Analyzing HUMINT, SIGINT, OSINT, IMINT, and all-source intelligence reporting to develop comprehensive assessments of WMD-CT threats, activities, and capabilities. * Collaborating with counterterrorism analysts, Intelligence Community partners, and other mission stakeholders to address critical intelligence requirements and develop coordinated assessments. * Developing and maintaining collection strategies, requirements, and assessments that support counterterrorism, counterproliferation, and broader national security objectives. * Producing intelligence reports, trend analyses, collection assessments, metrics, and other analytical products to communicate findings and support mission decision-making. * Applying Intelligence Community analytic tradecraft, including ICD 203 and ICD 206, to ensure assessments and intelligence products are objective, accurate, well-supported, and analytically rigorous. * Supporting continuous mission operations and evolving WMD-CT requirements, including shift-based coverage, while maintaining timely and accurate intelligence analysis. Required Qualifications * Experience integrating and assessing Intelligence Community collection efforts against WMD-CT targets by evaluating collection capabilities, identifying trends and intelligence gaps, and recommending improvements to collection strategies. * Experience collaborating with CT analysts and IC partners to address critical intelligence requirements, analyze HUMINT, SIGINT, OSINT, IMINT, and all-source reporting, and develop coordinated assessments. * Experience producing reports, trend analyses, and collection posture metrics to support counterterrorism, counterproliferation, and national security objectives Required minimum skills and knowledge: * US Citizenship is required. * Active Top Secret/SCI clearance with Polygraph. Multiple levels can be accommodated. * Junior Level: * Bachelor's degree OR Master's OR PhD with 0 years of experience OR Associate's degree with 3 years of experience OR High-School with 6 years of experience. * Compensation: $82,500 - $128,925 * Journeyman: * Bachelor's degree with 3 years of experience OR Master's Degree with 1 year of experience OR PhD with 0 years of experience OR Associate's degree with 6 years of experience OR High-School with 9 years of experience * Compensation: $90,700 - $141,775 * Senior Level: * Bachelor's degree with 5 years of experience OR Master's Degree with 3 years of experience OR PhD with 1 year of experience OR Associate's degree with 8 years of experience OR High-School with 11 years of experience * Compensation: $109,800 - $171,525 Desired Qualifications * Prior experience working with an intelligence community department or agency. * Experience and application of Intelligence Community Directives (ICD) 203 and 206. * Experience supporting continuous mission operations with the ability to support shift differentials Overview Overview Noblis and our wholly owned subsidiaries, Noblis ESI and Noblis MSD, take on some of the nation's toughest challenges, delivering advanced solutions to our customers' most critical missions. We bring together leading scientific, engineering, and management expertise in a culture grounded in objectivity and collaboration, ensuring our work creates lasting impact across federal missions. We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. Learn more and find opportunities at careers.noblis.org Why Work at Noblis At Noblis, we share a passion for excellence and innovation, and we create an environment where people can do meaningful work while maintaining the balance that keeps them energized and fulfilled. We seek out individuals with a natural curiosity and desire to collaborate and learn. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we consistently seek exceptionally skilled, mission-driven professionals who care deeply about doing work that enriches lives and makes our nation safer. Noblis has earned numerous workplace awards for our culture, our commitment to employee well-being, and our dedication to meaningful, impactful work. We also maintain a drug-free workplace. Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, pregnancy/childbirth and related medical conditions, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us . EEO is the Law | E-Verify | Right to Work Total Rewards At Noblis we recognize and reward your contributions, provide you with growth opportunities, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, and work-life programs. Our award programs acknowledge employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our service standards. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs. Other offerings may be provided for employees not within this category. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Benefits page on our Careers site. Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on-call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it's just one component of Noblis' total compensation package. Posted Salary Range USD $82,500.00 - USD $171,525.00 /Yr.