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Counterterrorism Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Counterterrorism information

See Boston, MA salary details

$23.4K

$89.6K

$163K

How much do counterterrorism jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for counterterrorism in Boston, MA is $89,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $111,900.00 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.
More about Counterterrorism jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Counterterrorism jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Counterterrorism jobs in Boston, MA are:

What job categories do people searching Counterterrorism jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Counterterrorism jobs in Boston, MA are:

Counterterrorism jobs near you
Infographic showing various Counterterrorism job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $89,578 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Tactical Scientist (Fort Belvoir, VA)

CSPC Solutions

Billerica, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

ABOUT CSPC SOLUTIONS

CSPC Solutions is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) delivering advanced security, technical, and mission-focused solutions in support of U.S. national security objectives. CSPC’s team draws on decades of special operations, intelligence, and technical program experience to close the gap between emerging capability and operational reality.

POSITION SUMMARY

CSPC Solutions is seeking a Tactical Scientist to serve as an embedded operational translator supporting a federal Counter-Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) research, development, test, and evaluation effort. The Tactical Scientist brings elite subject-matter expertise drawn from the highest levels of special operations to bridge the gap between operational needs and technical development, guiding scientists and engineers with authority so that technology investments are driven by operational viability, lethality, and survivability rather than theoretical perfection.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Serve as the operational voice in technical development efforts, translating mission requirements into actionable, precise technical specifications for scientists and engineers.
  • Conduct multi-source research and analysis, threat assessments, and operational environment modeling to identify risks and opportunities.
  • Develop and refine Concepts of Operations (CONOPS), mission threads, and courses of action through wargaming and effects-based planning.
  • Plan and execute controlled tests, field experiments, and exercise integrations to evaluate capability, performance and suitability, and to collect user feedback for iterative refinement.
  • Provide reach-back analytical support and real-time decision support and assist with direct integration of developed capabilities into live or planned operations.
  • Develop and apply Measures of Effectiveness (MOEs) and Measures of Performance (MOPs) to validate operational impact.
  • Support transition planning for mature prototypes to production, including development of training materials and sustainment models.
  • Guide and advise scientists and engineers with operational authority, ensuring technology investments remain grounded in real-world mission viability.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Background in the highest levels of U.S. special operations, with direct experience in counterterrorism, counter-WMD, or related sensitive operations.
  • Demonstrated ability to translate complex operational requirements into technical specifications, and to communicate effectively with both operators and technical staff.
  • Experience supporting or leading RDT&E efforts, capability development, or operational experimentation.
  • Working knowledge of CONOPS development, wargaming, and effects-based planning methodologies.
  • TS/SCI clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain eligibility for higher-level access as required.
  • Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally, including to austere or non-permissive environments, as mission requirements dictate.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Prior experience with Department of War (SOF, SMU, STO, or SAP background preferred), IC, or USG CWMD programs.
  • Experience developing Measures of Effectiveness (MOEs) and Measures of Performance (MOPs) for capability assessment.
  • Experience mentoring or advising technical teams in an operational advisory capacity.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & TRAVEL

This position is based on-site at Fort Belvoir, VA, with regular collaboration alongside government stakeholders, technical teams, and partner organizations. Travel is a core component of this role and is required for field experimentation, exercise integration, mission support, and stakeholder engagement. Travel may include time in operationally demanding or austere environments.

Please submit a resume and statement of relevant experience.