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Cryptic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cryptic Vector

Inventory Specialist

West Chester, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We understand that ...

Cryptic Vector

Inventory Specialist

Liberty Township, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Description At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We ...

Cryptic Vector

Full Stack Developer

Miamisburg, OH · On-site

Description At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We ...

Cryptic Vector

Full Stack Developer

Miamisburg, OH · On-site

At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We understand that ...

Cryptic Vector

Full Stack Developer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Description At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We ...

Cryptic Vector

Full Stack Developer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We understand that ...

Cryptic Vector

Full Stack Developer

West Chester, OH · On-site

At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We understand that ...

Cryptic Vector

Offensive Cyber Engineer

Miamisburg, OH · On-site

At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We understand that ...

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Cryptic information

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$26

$61

How much do cryptic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cryptic in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cryptic Crossword Setter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cryptic Crossword Setter, you need excellent command of the English language, strong logical reasoning, and a creative approach to wordplay, often supported by a background in writing or editing. Familiarity with crossword construction software and style guides is typically required. Attention to detail, patience, and an ability to anticipate solver perspectives are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the creation of engaging, fair, and challenging puzzles that appeal to and satisfy crossword enthusiasts.

What are some common challenges faced by cryptic crossword setters and how can they be addressed?

Cryptic crossword setters often face the challenge of balancing difficulty with fairness, ensuring clues are both inventive and solvable. Crafting clues that adhere to established conventions while remaining original can also be demanding. Collaboration with editors and test solvers is vital to refine clues and maintain quality. Setters benefit from regularly reviewing feedback and studying successful puzzles to continually improve their craft.

What is the difference between Cryptic vs Cryptanalyst?

AspectCrypticCryptanalyst
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of ciphersBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cryptography, or related field; often certifications
Work EnvironmentPuzzle design, game development, entertainmentIntelligence agencies, cybersecurity firms, government agencies
Industry UsageGaming, entertainment, puzzle creationSecurity, intelligence, military
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding puzzle or game designUnderstanding security or intelligence roles

Cryptic typically refers to puzzles, riddles, or code-based games designed for entertainment or brain teasers. In contrast, a Cryptanalyst is a professional who analyzes and breaks cryptographic codes, often working in security or intelligence sectors. While both involve code and ciphers, Cryptic is more related to puzzle creation, whereas Cryptanalyst focuses on decoding and security analysis.

What are cryptics?

Cryptics, often referred to as cryptic crossword setters or compilers, are individuals who create cryptic crossword puzzles. These puzzles are known for their clever and challenging clues, which often involve wordplay, double meanings, and anagrams. Cryptic crossword setters must have a strong command of language and creativity to design engaging and solvable puzzles. Their work is featured in newspapers, magazines, and online platforms for crossword enthusiasts. The role requires both puzzle-solving skills and the ability to craft intricate clues that are satisfying for solvers.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A cryptic or similar high-paying freelance or entrepreneurial role can generate $10,000 a month without a degree, often through skills in digital marketing, sales, or online business. Success typically depends on experience, skill level, and market demand, with many professionals leveraging online platforms and self-education to achieve such income levels.
More about Cryptic jobs
What job categories do people searching Cryptic jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cryptic jobs are:
Cryptic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cryptic job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

System Administrator

Cryptic Vector

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description

At Cryptic Vector, we are dedicated to mission success. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, delivering products that perform when our nation needs them most. We understand that properly supporting the most unique missions of the United States government requires the nation's best. Our focus is on creating a culture where the best and brightest want to grow, learn, and stay. If producing out-of-the-box solutions is your specialty, then you'll feel right at home at Cryptic Vector. We are solving the country's most unique problems in an environment where problem solvers and hard workers thrive. We've replaced corporate red tape with transparency and servant leadership. Honestly, it's hard not to love this culture!


System Administrator


Cryptic Vector is seeking a sharp, hands-on System Administrator to support mission-critical applications for classified programs at Fort Meade. You will play a key role in keeping high-stakes, high-side systems reliable and secure - managing Linux and Windows servers, virtualization platforms, Docker-based services, directory services, and endpoint compliance - so our teams can execute mission-essential classified programs without interruption or compromise.


We need an organized, proactive team player who thrives on taking full ownership of complex secure environments. If you excel in fast-paced, high-security settings and want real responsibility supporting national defense programs, this role is for you.


Responsibilities:


  • Maintain and support applications deployed in AWS and Kubernetes (K8s) environments in support of multiple classified programs at Fort Meade. 
  • Manage Docker-based services and containerized applications across production AWS and Kubernetes clusters. 
  • Perform application deployments, scaling, patching, monitoring, and troubleshooting in AWS and Kubernetes environments. 
  • Manage AWS cloud infrastructure and services required to support mission applications. 
  • Perform system and application-level auditing, logging, and compliance monitoring to meet customer security requirements. 
  • Support high-side networks and mission systems (NSANet, JWICS, and SIPRNet) in secure classified environments. 
  • Work hands on with users to meet objectives and collaborate on solutions and problem resolutions
  • Stay current with cloud-native technologies and implement improvements to enhance performance, reliability, and security of program applications.

Requirements

  • 3+ years of experience managing Docker-based applications and containerized environments in production. 
  • Hands-on experience with AWS cloud services (EC2, EKS, RDS, S3, IAM, etc.) and Kubernetes. 
  • Strong Linux and Windows administration skills. 
  • Current active TS clearance. 
  • Experience supporting high-side classified networks (NSANet, JWICS, and/or SIPRNet). 
  • Familiarity with PKI, SSH, access control policies, and secure configuration best practices. 
  • Security+ certification (or ability to obtain) preferred 


Benefits & Perks


As an Employee First company, we offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package:


  • 100% Company-paid medical insurance for employees
  • 100% Company-paid dental and vision insurance
  • Competitive salary and bonus
  • 25% 401k company contribution
  • Generous PTO, parental leave, bereavement leave, and volunteer time
  • Flexible work hours
  • Tuition reimbursement, training allowance, internal mobility opportunities


This role requires use of technical data subject to U.S. Government contract restrictions; therefore, this posting is only for U.S. Citizens.


Cryptic Vector is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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