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Cyber Capability Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Parsons

Systems Engineer (Cyber)

Alexandria, VA · On-site

As a Systems Engineer (Cyber), you will support the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy ... Cyber Command's Capabilities Integration and Development System (CCIDS), the Command Acquisition ...

Parsons

Systems Engineer (Cyber)

Arlington, VA · On-site

As a Systems Engineer (Cyber), you will support the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy ... Cyber Command's Capabilities Integration and Development System (CCIDS), the Command Acquisition ...

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All JobsCyber Capability Developer JobsCyber Capability Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Cyber Capability Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$19

$59

$96

How much do cyber capability developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cyber capability developer in Washington, DC is $59.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.93 and $68.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cyber Capability Developer vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectCyber Capability DeveloperCyber Security Analyst
Required CredentialsCertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH; relevant degrees in cybersecurity or computer scienceCertifications such as CompTIA Security+, GIAC, CISSP; degree in cybersecurity, IT, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDevelops and tests cybersecurity tools, software, and capabilities in labs or development settingsMonitors networks, investigates incidents, and implements security measures in operational environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, defense contractors, and cybersecurity firms to build security solutionsCommonly employed by organizations to protect systems, detect threats, and respond to incidents

The Cyber Capability Developer focuses on creating and enhancing cybersecurity tools and capabilities, while the Cyber Security Analyst primarily monitors and defends existing systems. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the same industry sectors, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cyber capability developer?

To thrive as a Cyber Capability Developer, you need strong programming skills, a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with security testing tools, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and certifications like CISSP or OSCP are typically valuable. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for designing robust cyber defenses, identifying vulnerabilities, and collaborating with teams to protect organizational assets.

What is a cyber capability developer?

Cyber Capability Developers are professionals who design, build, and implement tools, systems, and solutions to enhance an organization's cybersecurity posture. They focus on developing both defensive and offensive cyber capabilities, often creating custom software, automating security tasks, and integrating advanced technologies to protect against cyber threats. Their work may include vulnerability assessments, penetration testing tools, and security automation frameworks. Cyber Capability Developers typically collaborate with security analysts, engineers, and IT teams to ensure robust cyber defense mechanisms.

What are some common challenges faced by cyber capability developers when integrating new security solutions into existing systems?

Cyber Capability Developers often encounter challenges when integrating new security solutions, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems and minimizing disruptions to ongoing operations. Balancing robust security enhancements with system performance and user accessibility can be complex, requiring careful planning and cross-team collaboration. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving cyber threats means developers must continuously adapt their solutions and coordinate closely with IT, network, and compliance teams to maintain effective protection.
What are popular job titles related to Cyber Capability Developer jobs in Washington, DC? For Cyber Capability Developer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cyber Capability Developer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Capability Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Cyber Capability Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cyber Capability Developer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,008 per year, or $59.6 per hour.

AI-Enabled Cyber Capabilities Developer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about building AI-enabled capabilities that accelerate reverse engineering and vulnerability research?
Do you want to design systems that can reason, plan, use tools, and rapidly demonstrate mission impact?
If so, we want you to join our group of offensive cyber experts! We are seeking reverse engineers, vulnerability researchers, and cyber capability developers who know how to leverage modern AI technology to solve complex cyber challenges. This is not a traditional software development role! It requires designing AI-native architectures, orchestrating tool-using agents, and rapidly iterating on prototypes that demonstrate functional, outcome-driven impact. We work in a dynamic, mission-driven environment where our efforts have real-world impact. Collaboration is at the heart of our culture, and we value multidisciplinary perspectives, curiosity, and continuous learning. We encourage our staff to explore emerging technologies, share knowledge, and deepen their expertise as they take on some of the nation's toughest challenges.
As a member of our group, you will...
  • Reverse engineer mission-relevant systems and develop innovative exploits
  • Design and implement agentic AI systems to automate vulnerability research, reverse engineering, and capability development workflows
  • Collaborate with government sponsors and operators to build mission-aligned capabilities
  • Integrate large language models, AI services, external tools, and data sources into full-stack applications for cyber use cases
  • Propose groundbreaking ideas for internal and external funding opportunities
  • Mentor teammates in the art and science of using AI to enhance offensive cyber capability development
  • Share knowledge by clearly articulating ideas through papers and presentations to team members, APL management, and government decision makers

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • At least 5 years of relevant experience
  • Have experience developing agentic AI systems including planning, memory, tool use, and multi-step reasoning workflows
  • Are skilled with software debuggers and static analysis tools such as Ghidra
  • Have experience with modern AI development platforms such as Claude Code, Gemini, Codex, or Copilot
  • Are proficient with one or more programming languages
  • Understand Unix/Linux operating systems
  • Love solving puzzles and have experience persevering through technical challenges
  • Hold an active TS/SCI clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+Polygraph clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information; eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Previously held dynamic technical leadership roles and have demonstrated mentoring experience
  • Have experience applying AI systems to reverse engineering, vulnerability research, or exploit development
  • Have experience designing production-grade agent workflows, including orchestration, evaluation, guardrails, observability, and reliability testing
  • Have familiarity with virtualization, emulation, sandboxing, or automated analysis environments
  • Have knowledge of advanced vulnerability discovery tools
  • Possess an active TS/SCI clearance with full scope polygraph

#LI-AG1
About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually

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