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Cyber Defense Contractor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Nwis

Deltek Costpoint Administrator

Sterling, VA

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... Prior Government Contracting Experience * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance * Hands-on ...

Nightwing

Deltek Costpoint Administrator

Sterling, VA · On-site

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... Prior Government Contracting Experience * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance * Hands-on ...

Nightwing

Project Manager

Sterling, VA · On-site

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... Communicate project status to government and contractor stakeholders * Support program reviews ...

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All JobsCyber Defense Contractor JobsCyber Defense Contractor Jobs in Reston, VA

Cyber Defense Contractor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$46.3K

$111.9K

$157.1K

How much do cyber defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber defense contractor in Reston, VA is $111,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $131,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Cyber Defense Contractors when working with multiple clients?

Cyber Defense Contractors often juggle the unique security requirements and protocols of different clients, which can be challenging when each organization uses distinct technologies and risk management approaches. Navigating varied compliance standards, staying current with evolving threats, and ensuring clear communication between internal and client teams are also key hurdles. Adaptability, strong organizational skills, and a proactive approach to learning are essential to successfully manage these challenges and deliver effective security solutions.

What is a Cyber Defense Contractor?

A Cyber Defense Contractor is a professional or organization hired to protect a company's or government agency's digital infrastructure from cyber threats. Their responsibilities include assessing vulnerabilities, implementing cybersecurity measures, monitoring networks for suspicious activity, and responding to cyberattacks. These contractors often work on a project or contract basis for public or private sector clients, and may specialize in areas like network security, incident response, or risk assessment. Due to the sensitive nature of their work, they often require security clearances and must stay updated on the latest threats and technologies.

What does a cybersecurity contractor do?

A cybersecurity contractor is responsible for protecting computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats by implementing security measures, conducting vulnerability assessments, and responding to security incidents. They often use tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption, and may hold certifications such as CISSP or CEH. Their work typically involves analyzing security risks and developing strategies to prevent cyber attacks.

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

To thrive as a Cyber Defense Contractor, you need in-depth knowledge of cybersecurity principles, risk assessment, and incident response, usually supported by a degree in computer science or cybersecurity and relevant industry certifications like CISSP or CEH. Expertise in tools such as SIEM platforms, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanners is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for proactively protecting critical assets, swiftly managing threats, and ensuring clear coordination within security teams.

What is the difference between Cyber Defense Contractor vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectCyber Defense ContractorCyber Security Analyst
CredentialsCertifications like CISSP, CEH, Security+Certifications like Security+, CISSP, GIAC
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often on-site or remote for clientsFull-time, in-house or remote within organizations
Employer & IndustryConsulting firms, government agencies, private companiesCorporations, government agencies, financial institutions
Search & Comparison IntentContract roles, cybersecurity consultingSecurity monitoring, incident response

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, a Cyber Defense Contractor typically works on short-term projects providing specialized defense services for clients, whereas a Cyber Security Analyst is a full-time employee responsible for ongoing security monitoring and incident response within an organization.

Can you make $200,000 in cyber security?

Cyber Defense Contractors and cybersecurity professionals can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications like CISSP or CISM, and experience in high-demand areas such as threat analysis or security architecture. Salaries vary based on location, employer, and level of expertise, with senior roles and specialized skills commanding higher pay.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Cyber Defense Contractors and senior cybersecurity professionals with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or consulting roles. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership, and strategic responsibilities, along with working in environments that value cybersecurity at a high level.

How much does a cyber defense operator make?

A cyber defense operator typically earns between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with certifications like CISSP or CEH can earn higher salaries, especially in government or defense sectors.
What job categories do people searching Cyber Defense Contractor jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Defense Contractor jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Cyber Defense Contractor jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Cyber Defense Contractor job openings:
Cyber Defense Contractor jobs near you
Information System Security Officer (ISSO)- Junior

Information System Security Officer (ISSO)- Junior

Cyber Defense Technologies

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$70K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview: CDT is looking to add a Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) to provide advice and assistance to secure configuration and operations to the customer's IT assets. This position will be onsite in Chantilly, VA.
Clearance: An active Top Secret/SCI clearance with CI Poly is required. Candidates who do not meet these clearance requirements will not be considered.
Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree and 2 years work experience, Bachelor's Degree and 3 years of work experience or equivalent, Associates Degree and 6 years of work experience or equivalent, High School/GED and 8 years of work experience or equivalent.
Responsibilities:
  • Performs assessments of systems and networks within the networking environment or enclave and identifies where those systems/networks deviate from acceptable configurations, enclave policy, or local policy. This is achieved through passive evaluations (compliance audits) and active evaluations (vulnerability assessments).
  • Establishes strict program control processes to ensure mitigation of risks and supports for obtaining certification and accreditation of systems. This includes process support, analysis support, coordination support, security certification test support, security documentation support, investigations, software research, hardware introduction and release, emerging technology research inspections, and periodic audits.
  • Assists in the implementation of required government policy (e.g.,, NISPOM, DCID 6/3), and makes recommendations on process tailoring.
  • Supports the formal Security Test & Evaluation (ST&E) required by each government accrediting authority through pre-test preparations, participation in the tests, analysis of the results, and preparation of required reports.
  • Performs analyses to validate established security requirements and recommends additional security requirements and safeguards where required.
  • Supports the formal Security Test & Evaluation (ST&E) required by each government accrediting authority through pre-test preparations, participation in the tests, analysis of the results, and preparation of required reports.
  • Periodically conducts a review of each system's audits and monitors corrective actions until all actions are closed.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Provide guidance on system security, assessment and authorization issues, and INFOSEC policy and security vulnerabilities.
  • Support comprehensive investigations into all related data spills and IT incidents at both government and contractor sites.
  • Ability to troubleshoot technical configurations and make recommendations on the protection of classified and sensitive data.
  • Development and maintenance of all SSP documentation and risk analysis.
  • Responsible reporting of security related incidents including development of protective or corrective measures to discover vulnerabilities.
  • Familiarity with conducting research and analysis, network and information system security principles and best practices, and controlling, labeling, virus scanning, and transferring data between information systems at varying classification levels.
Why Join Cyber Defense Technologies?
At CDT, we offer a collaborative and inclusive work environment where your expertise can help shape the future of cybersecurity and engineering solutions.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

CDT is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity employer making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
Apply Now:
If you are a proactive ISSO and thrive in dynamic environments, we encourage you to apply and join the CDT team!
Salary Range: $70,000- $88,000

Apply