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Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... Nightwing is seeking a Network Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... digital forensics findings- Experience with the analysis and characterization of cyber attacks ...

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Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst information

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$154.5K

How much do cyber defense forensics analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber defense forensics analyst in the United States is $101,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst do?

A Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst investigates cyberattacks and security breaches to determine how they occurred and who was responsible. They collect, analyze, and preserve digital evidence from computers, networks, and other digital devices. Their findings help organizations understand vulnerabilities, prevent future incidents, and support legal actions if necessary. These professionals work closely with IT teams, law enforcement, and legal experts to ensure accurate and secure handling of sensitive data.

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

To thrive as a Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst, you need a solid understanding of computer networks, operating systems, incident response, and digital investigation techniques, often supported by degrees in cybersecurity or computer science. Familiarity with forensic analysis tools (like EnCase, FTK, or Autopsy), SIEM systems, and certifications such as GCFA or CHFI is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial to accurately identify, investigate, and mitigate cyber threats while clearly documenting findings for legal or organizational response.

What are some typical challenges faced by Cyber Defense Forensics Analysts when investigating security incidents?

Cyber Defense Forensics Analysts often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving attack techniques, encrypted or obfuscated data, and incomplete digital evidence. Analysts must be able to work efficiently under pressure, as time is often critical when responding to incidents. Collaboration with IT, legal, and law enforcement teams is common, requiring strong communication skills to ensure evidence is properly preserved and investigations are thorough. Staying up to date with the latest forensic tools and methodologies is also essential for success in this dynamic field.

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

AspectCyber Defense Forensics AnalystCyber Security Analyst
CertificationsGCFA, GCFE, CISSPCISSP, Security+, CEH
Work EnvironmentIncident response teams, forensic labsSecurity operations centers, risk assessment teams
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, cybersecurity firmsCorporations, financial institutions, tech companies

While both roles focus on cybersecurity, a Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst specializes in investigating cyber incidents and analyzing digital evidence, often working in forensic labs or incident response teams. In contrast, a Cyber Security Analyst has a broader role in monitoring security systems, assessing risks, and implementing preventive measures across organizations.

More about Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst jobs

What states have the most Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst jobs?

For Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,608 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Cyber Network Forensic Analyst III

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is supporting a U.S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government agencies and critical asset owners who experience cyber-attacks, providing immediate investigation and resolution. Contract personnel perform investigations to characterize of the severity of breaches, develop mitigation plans, and assist with the restoration of services. Nightwing is seeking a Network Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.
Responsibilities:
- Assists the Government lead in coordinating teams in preliminary incident response investigations
- Assists the Government lead with interfacing with the customer while on site
- Determines appropriate courses of actions in response to identified and analyses anomalous network activity
- Assesses network topology and device configurations identifying critical security concerns and providing security best practice recommendations
- Assists with the writing and publishing of Computer Network Defense guidance and reports on incident findings to appropriate constituencies
- Collects network intrusion artifacts (e.g., PCAP, domains, URI's, certificates, etc.) and uses discovered data to enable mitigation of potential Computer Network Defense incidents
- Analyzes identified malicious network activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information
- Collects network device integrity data and analyze for signs of tampering or compromise
- Assists with real-time CND incident handling (i.e., forensic collections, intrusion correlation and tracking, threat analysis, and advising on system remediation) tasks to support onsite engagements
Required Skills:
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must have an active TS/SCI clearance
- Must be able to obtain DHS Suitability
- 8+ years of directly relevant experience in network investigations
- In depth knowledge of CND policies, procedures and regulations
- In depth knowledge of TCP/IP protocols
- In depth knowledge of standard protocols - ICMP, HTTP/S, DNS, SSH, SMTP, SMB, NFS, etc.
- In depth knowledge and experience of Wifi networking
- In depth knowledge and experience of network topologies - DMZ's, WAN's, etc.
- Substantial knowledge of Splunk (or other SIEM's)
- Understanding of MITRE Adversary Tactics, Techniques and Common Knowledge (ATT&CK)
- Knowledge of Computer Network Defense policies, procedures, and regulations
- Knowledge of defense-in-depth principles and general attack stages with respect to network security architecture
- Ability to characterize and analyze network traffic to identify anomalous activity and potential threats to network resources
- Ability to identify and analyze anomalies in network traffic using metadata
- Experience with reconstructing a malicious attack or activity based on network traffic
- Experience examining network topologies to understand data flows through the network
- Must be able to work collaboratively across physical locations
Desired Skills:
- Substantial knowledge of network device integrity concepts and methodologies
- Proficiency with network analysis software (e.g. Wireshark)
- Proficiency with carving and extracting information from PCAP data
- Proficiency with non-traditional network traffic (e.g. Command and Control)
- Proficiency with preserving evidence integrity according to standard operating procedures or national standards
- Proficiency with designing cyber security systems and environments in a Linux and/or Windows environment
- Proficiency with virtualized environments
Required Education:
BS Computer Science, Cyber Security, Computer Engineering, or related degree; or HS Diploma & 10+ years of network investigations experience.
Desired Certifications:
- DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, CSSP Analyst
- DoD 8140.01 GCIA, GCIH, CSSP Analyst/CSSP Incident Responder
- DoD 8140.01 CEH, CSSP Analyst
- SANS GIAC GNFA preferred
Arlington, VA
At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.