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Cyber Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sphinx LLC

Cyber Analyst

Reston, VA · Remote

$165K - $175K/yr

These missions include identifying, analyzing, neutralizing, and exploiting foreign intelligence cyber actors, defending critical infrastructure from cyber threats and ransomware campaigns, and ...

Analygence

Cyber Readiness Analyst

Hampton, VA · On-site

FOC signifies that the MDT has achieved a state of sustained and comprehensive operational effectiveness and is fully capable of defending critical Air Force missions from cyber threats. * Support ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Defense Cyber Analyst

Honolulu, HI

$115K - $130K/yr

The candidate is required to assist and execute on mission assurance strategies regarding protecting and defending cyber terrain, which identifies with a mission set. * The candidate personnel shall ...

Analygence

Cyber Readiness Analyst

Hampton, VA · On-site

FOC signifies that the MDT has achieved a state of sustained and comprehensive operational effectiveness and is fully capable of defending critical Air Force missions from cyber threats. * Support ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Cyber Defense Analyst

Monterey, CA · On-site

$96K - $108K/yr

Summary: The Cyber Defense Analyst is responsible for using data collected from various cyber ... EXP w/ Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, ACAS, Palo Alto, GitLab, BurpSuite, MacOS, iPadOS, Windows ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Cyber Defense Analyst

Monterey, CA · On-site

$96K - $108K/yr

Summary: The Cyber Defense Analyst is responsible for using data collected from various cyber ... EXP w/ Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, ACAS, Palo Alto, GitLab, BurpSuite, MacOS, iPadOS, Windows ...

Nisga'a Ciops

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

We are looking for a Cyber Operations Planner in the Colorado Springs, CO area. Responsibilities Essential Job Functions: * Overlays top priority USSF missions and assets cyber terrain requiring ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

We are looking for a Cyber Operations Planner in the Colorado Springs, CO area. Responsibilities Essential Job Functions: * Overlays top priority USSF missions and assets cyber terrain requiring ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Cyber Defense Analyst

Monterey, CA · On-site

$96K - $108K/yr

Summary: The Cyber Defense Analyst is responsible for using data collected from various cyber ... EXP w/ Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, ACAS, Palo Alto, GitLab, BurpSuite, MacOS, iPadOS, Windows ...

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Cyber Defender information

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$34K

$112.9K

$176K

How much do cyber defender jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber defender in the United States is $112,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cyber Defender, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cyber Defender, you need a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, network security, and threat analysis, often backed by a degree in information security or a related field. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help Cyber Defenders respond to threats and collaborate with teams. These abilities are crucial for protecting organizational assets and ensuring robust defense against evolving cyber threats.

How does a Cyber Defender typically collaborate with other departments to enhance organizational security?

Cyber Defenders regularly work with IT, risk management, and compliance teams to identify and address vulnerabilities across systems. They participate in cross-functional meetings to share threat intelligence, coordinate response plans, and ensure security policies are consistently applied. This collaborative approach helps to quickly detect and respond to incidents, while also promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness throughout the organization.

What are Cyber Defenders?

Cyber Defenders are professionals who protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats such as hacking, malware, and unauthorized access. They monitor security systems, investigate suspicious activities, and respond to incidents to prevent data breaches or damage. Their work involves implementing security measures, conducting vulnerability assessments, and staying updated on the latest cyber threats. Cyber Defenders play a critical role in ensuring the safety and integrity of digital assets for organizations.

What is the difference between Cyber Defender vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectCyber DefenderCyber Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP (preferred)CompTIA Security+, CISSP, GIAC certifications
Work EnvironmentSecurity operations centers, incident response teamsSecurity teams, risk assessment, monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageIT security firms, government agencies, large corporationsCorporate IT departments, consulting firms, government

Both roles focus on protecting information systems, but Cyber Defenders primarily respond to active threats and incidents, while Cyber Security Analysts analyze security data to prevent future attacks. The roles often overlap, with certifications and work environments closely aligned, making them key positions in cybersecurity teams.

More about Cyber Defender jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cyber Defender jobs? The most popular types of Cyber Defender jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Cyber Defender jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Defender jobs are:
Cyber Defender jobs near you
Cyber Analyst

Cyber Analyst

Sphinx LLC

Reston, VA • Remote

$165K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Cyber Analyst

Clearance: Active TS/SCI Clearance Required (CI Polygraph Eligible)

Job Type: Full-Time

Location: Reston, VA

Position Overview

Senior Cyber Analysts at Sphinx support a wide range of mission areas on behalf of government and private sector clients. These missions include identifying, analyzing, neutralizing, and exploiting foreign intelligence cyber actors, defending critical infrastructure from cyber threats and ransomware campaigns, and supporting national security cyber operations.

The Senior Cyber Analyst will conduct advanced cyber threat analysis, cyber intelligence production, and technical analysis in support of operational and strategic objectives. Analysts are expected to leverage all-source intelligence, cyber threat intelligence (CTI), network analysis, and investigative methodologies to identify adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) and provide actionable intelligence to customers.

Successful candidates will be highly motivated, adaptable, and capable of operating in fast-paced mission environments requiring continuous learning and technical proficiency.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct cyber threat intelligence (CTI) analysis supporting national security and cyber operations missions
  • Identify, analyze, aggregate, and disseminate Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) associated with Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), nation-state actors, cyber criminals, and ransomware groups
  • Perform All-Source Intelligence analysis in support of cyber threat intelligence production
  • Analyze network traffic, system logs, and cyber artifacts to identify adversary activity and document findings
  • Conduct technical cyber analysis related to intrusion activity, malware, attack infrastructure, and adversary TTPs
  • Produce intelligence reports, analytical products, briefings, and operational assessments
  • Support cyber investigations, incident response, and cyber operations activities
  • Maintain awareness of emerging cyber threats, technologies, vulnerabilities, and attack methodologies
  • Collaborate with intelligence, cybersecurity, and law enforcement professionals across multiple mission areas
  • Rapidly adapt to changing operational priorities and evolving threat environments
Required Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance required; ability to obtain CI Polygraph after hire
  • 10+ years of experience performing Cyber Analysis, Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI), All-Source Intelligence Analysis, or related technical analysis
  • Experience identifying and analyzing cyber threats, adversary infrastructure, and Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)
  • Experience supporting cyber operations, cyber investigations, intelligence analysis, or incident response missions
  • Knowledge of Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), nation-state cyber actors, ransomware groups, and cyber criminal methodologies
  • Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and within mission-focused analytical teams
  • Industry-recognized cybersecurity or cyber analysis certifications required
Preferred Certifications
  • GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
  • GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA)
  • GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence (GCTI)
  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • CySA+
  • DC3 Cyber Analysis Course or equivalent cyber investigative training
Desired Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, intelligence studies, information technology, engineering, or related discipline
  • Completion of Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA) courses
  • Advanced certifications in cybersecurity, cyber threat intelligence, digital forensics, or cyber operations
  • Current or former Federal Law Enforcement, Counterintelligence (CI), or military cyber experience
  • Graduate of federal LE/CI credentialing programs such as CISAC (35L/97B), AFOSI, NCIS, USMC CI/HUMINT, or equivalent 1811 qualification programs
  • Experience supporting Intelligence Community (IC), DoD, federal law enforcement, or national security missions