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Cyber Capability Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer (Cyber)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150 - $180K/hr

The Systems Engineer (Cyber) provides technical analysis, capability integration support, and program coordination for senior cyber leadership across ASW Cyber, the Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor ...

Systems Engineer (Cyber)

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $220K/yr

As a Systems Engineer (Cyber), you will provide technical analysis, capability integration, and ... Conduct capability analyses by evaluating emerging technologies and mapping solutions to Principal ...

Showing results 41-60

Cyber Capability Developer information

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How much do cyber capability developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cyber capability developer in the United States is $52.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.31 and $60.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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Infographic showing various Cyber Capability Developer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,490 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Full Spectrum Cyber Capability and Operations Expert

Lexington, MA

MIT Lincoln Laboratory
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and implement novel cyber capabilities on unconventional devices and networks.

  • Test and evaluate cyber capabilities and concepts of employment for operational suitability and survivability.

  • Work with DoD processes including acquisition, planning, and operations.


Job description

The Cyber Physical Systems Group tackles key problems in the convergence of cybersecurity and the physical world in an interdisciplinary research and development environment. We conduct research to understand and leverage the cybersecurity implications of cyber-physical phenomena and develop first-of-their-kind prototypes for the Department of Defense, intelligence community, and federal agencies.  We focus on cyber-physical sensing, cyber-physical effects, and red-teaming using techniques like building or applying advanced and novel sensors, digital processing, side-channel analysis, AI/ML, reverse engineering, system exploitation, and RF communications.

Job Overview:

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is seeking an experienced Full Spectrum Cyber Capability and Operations Expert to join our Cyber Physical Systems group within the Cyber Security and Information Sciences Division. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in core computing technical disciplines including software, hardware, and networks, with a strong emphasis on embedded systems development and security, wireless communications, applied cryptography, and applied networking. In addition, they will be familiar with DoD and/or IC capability development, acquisitions, and operations processes.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement novel cyber capabilities on unconventional devices and networks.
  • Test and evaluate cyber capabilities and concepts of employment for operational suitability and survivability.
  • Work with DoD processes including acquisition, planning, and operations.
  • Clearly focus on the big picture while taking appropriate lower-level technical details into account.
  • Explain highly technical concepts succinctly to senior audiences.
  • Self-direct efforts and lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams to achieve project goals.
Qualifications:
  • PhD or equivalent education plus experience in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Cyber Security, or a related field. 
  • Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret level DoD security clearance. 
  • High-level scripting languages, such as Python
  • Low-level languages, such as C or assembly
  • Computing architecture design, instruction set architectures, and operating system internals
  • Familiarity with DoD processes including acquisition, planning, and operations.
  • Familiarity with computer network operations, both offensive and defensive.
  • Exceptional ability to rapidly assimilate understanding of novel systems or cyber techniques
  • Strong communication skills, especially in explaining technical concepts to high-level decision-makers.
  • Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive projects to completion.
  • Experience with embedded systems development and security
  • Familiarity with binary reverse engineering and exploitation

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200-$170,000

Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200-$220,000

 

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including-but not limited to-the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: 

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
  • MIT-funded pension
  • Matching 401K
  • Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
  • Mentorship programs
  • A range of work-life balance options
  • ... and much more!  

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

 

Requisition ID: 42202 

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