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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 Host Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.

Responsibilities: - Correlate forensic findings to network events in support of developing an ... relevant to cyber defense practices - Receive and analyze network & host alerts from various ...

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

ECS is seeking a Cyber Forensics Analyst to work in our Portland, OR office. The Forensics Analyst Mid performs hands-on forensic analysis and malware investigation activities in support of SOC ...

ECS is seeking a Cyber Forensics Analyst to work in their Portland, OR office. The role involves performing hands-on forensic analysis and malware investigation activities in support of security ...

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Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst information

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$69.5K

$101.6K

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

As of Jun 16, 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 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 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.

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 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.
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 job categories do people searching Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $101,608 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Cyber Host Forensic Analyst III

Nwis

Sterling, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 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.

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 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 Host Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.


Responsibilities:

- Assisting Federal leads with overseeing and leading forensic teams at onsite engagements by coordinating evidence collection operations

- Providing technical assistance on digital evidence matters and forensic investigative techniques to appropriate personnel when necessary

- Writing in-depth reports, supports with peer reviews and provides quality assurance reviews for junior personnel- Supporting forensic analysis and mentoring/providing guidance to others on data collection, analysis and reporting in support of onsite engagements.

- Assisting with leading and coordinating forensic teams in preliminary investigation- Planning, coordinating and directing the inventory, examination and comprehensive technical analysis of computer related evidence

- Distilling analytic findings into executive summaries and in-depth technical reports

- Serving as technical forensics liaison to stakeholders and explaining investigation details to include forensic methodologies and protocols

- Tracking and documenting on-site incident response activities and providing updates to leadership throughout the engagement

- Evaluating, extracting and analyzing suspected malicious code

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 cyber forensic investigations using leading edge technologies and industry standard forensic tools

- Ability to create forensically sound duplicates of evidence (forensic images)

- Able to write cyber investigative reports documenting digital forensics findings

- Experience with the analysis and characterization of cyber attacks

- Experience with proper evidence handing procedures and chain of custody protocols

- Skilled in identifying different classes of attacks and attack stages

- Knowledge of system and application security threats and vulnerabilities

- Knowledgeable in proactive analysis of systems and networks, to include creating trust levels of critical resources

- Must be able to work collaboratively across physical locations.

Desired Skills:

- Experience with or knowledge of two or more of the following tools:

--- EnCase

--- FTK

--- SIFT

--- X-Ways

--- Volatility

--- WireShark

--- Sleuth Kit/Autopsy

--- Splunk

--- Snort

--- Other EDR Tools (Crowdstrike, Carbon Black, Etc)

- Proficiency with conducting all-source research.

Required Education:

BS Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering or related degree; or HS Diploma and 10+ years of host or digital forensics experience

Desired Certifications:- GCFA, GCFE, EnCE, CCE, CFCE, CISSP
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.