... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
... operating systems of a network device based on network traffic - Reconstruct a malicious attack or activity based off network traffic - Identify network mapping and operating system (OS ...
... operating systems of a network device based on network traffic - Reconstruct a malicious attack or activity based off network traffic - Identify network mapping and operating system (OS ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
They are seeking Cyber Network Defense Analysts (CNDA) to support this critical customer mission ... Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
Quick apply
They are seeking Cyber Network Defense Analysts (CNDA) to support this critical customer mission ... Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
Perform cyber defense trend analysis and reporting * Perform event correlation using information ... Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
Quick apply
Perform cyber defense trend analysis and reporting * Perform event correlation using information ... Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
Cyber Network Defense Analyst II
Arlington, VA · On-site +1
They are seeking Cyber Network Defense Analysts (CNDA) to support this critical customer mission ... Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
Cyber Network Defense Analyst II
Arlington, VA · On-site +1
They are seeking Cyber Network Defense Analysts (CNDA) to support this critical customer mission ... Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
... and operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities • Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or ...
... and operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities • Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or ...
... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
... and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic • Reconstruct a malicious ... on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network ...
Director, Cyber Defense Principal Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site +1
$199K - $270K/yr
Establish scalable security standards, architectures, and operating principles across Cyber Defense and enterprise teams. * Drive an engineering-first approach to detection and response, leveraging ...
Director, Cyber Defense Principal Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site +1
$199K - $270K/yr
Establish scalable security standards, architectures, and operating principles across Cyber Defense and enterprise teams. * Drive an engineering-first approach to detection and response, leveraging ...
Director, Cyber Defense Principal Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$199K - $270K/yr
Establish scalable security standards, architectures, and operating principles across Cyber Defense and enterprise teams. * Drive an engineering-first approach to detection and response, leveraging ...
Director, Cyber Defense Principal Engineer
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$199K - $270K/yr
Establish scalable security standards, architectures, and operating principles across Cyber Defense and enterprise teams. * Drive an engineering-first approach to detection and response, leveraging ...
Cyber Defense Training Lead
Cincinnati, OH · On-site
$106K - $143K/yr
Experience configuring networking devices, cloud environments, and operating systems including ... Cyber Defense audiences - including curriculum design, hands-on lab development, and live ...
Cyber Defense Training Lead
Cincinnati, OH · On-site
$106K - $143K/yr
Experience configuring networking devices, cloud environments, and operating systems including ... Cyber Defense audiences - including curriculum design, hands-on lab development, and live ...
Cyber Defense Training Lead
$106K - $143K/yr
Experience configuring networking devices, cloud environments, and operating systems including ... Cyber Defense audiences - including curriculum design, hands-on lab development, and live ...
Cyber Defense Training Lead
$106K - $143K/yr
Experience configuring networking devices, cloud environments, and operating systems including ... Cyber Defense audiences - including curriculum design, hands-on lab development, and live ...
Manager, Cyber Defense
New York, NY · On-site
Global Cyber Defense is a highly talented and globally distributed team that covers response ... You are comfortable working with global partners in a follow-the-sun operating model. * You are an ...
Manager, Cyber Defense
New York, NY · On-site
Global Cyber Defense is a highly talented and globally distributed team that covers response ... You are comfortable working with global partners in a follow-the-sun operating model. * You are an ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
Director, Cyber Defense
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$106K - $144K/yr
The Role The Director, Cyber Defense, leads Kyndryl's operational defense mission across a globally ... than operating in isolation from it. * Strong command of incident response methodologies and ...
Director, Cyber Defense
Atlanta, GA · On-site
$106K - $144K/yr
The Role The Director, Cyber Defense, leads Kyndryl's operational defense mission across a globally ... than operating in isolation from it. * Strong command of incident response methodologies and ...
Director, Cyber Defense
Dallas, TX · On-site
$109K - $148K/yr
The Role The Director, Cyber Defense, leads Kyndryl's operational defense mission across a globally ... than operating in isolation from it. * Strong command of incident response methodologies and ...
Director, Cyber Defense
Dallas, TX · On-site
$109K - $148K/yr
The Role The Director, Cyber Defense, leads Kyndryl's operational defense mission across a globally ... than operating in isolation from it. * Strong command of incident response methodologies and ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
... operating system (OS) fingerprinting/other baselining activities - Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed ...
Cyber Defense Operator information
See salary details
$34K - $46.9K
4% of jobs
$46.9K - $59.8K
0% of jobs
$59.8K - $72.7K
4% of jobs
$72.7K - $85.6K
7% of jobs
$96.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$85.6K - $98.5K
11% of jobs
$98.5K - $111.5K
5% of jobs
The median wage is $116.7K / yr.
$111.5K - $124.4K
44% of jobs
$124.4K - $137.3K
10% of jobs
$137.3K - $150.2K
11% of jobs
$150.2K - $163.1K
2% of jobs
$163.1K - $176K
0% of jobs
$34K
$112.9K
$176K
How much do cyber defense operator jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber defense operator 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 is the difference between Cyber Defense Operator vs Cyber Security Analyst?
| Aspect | Cyber Defense Operator | Cyber Security Analyst |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | CompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP (preferred) | CompTIA Security+, CISSP, GIAC certifications |
| Work Environment | Operational security teams, SOCs, incident response centers | Security teams, risk management departments, consulting firms |
| Primary Focus | Monitoring, detecting, and responding to cyber threats in real-time | Analyzing security data, assessing vulnerabilities, developing security policies |
While both roles focus on cybersecurity, a Cyber Defense Operator primarily handles real-time threat detection and incident response, working within security operations centers. In contrast, a Cyber Security Analyst often focuses on analyzing security data, assessing risks, and developing security strategies. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their day-to-day responsibilities differ in scope and focus.
What skills and qualifications are needed to be a cyber defense operator?
To thrive as a Cyber Defense Operator, you need expertise in network security, threat analysis, and incident response, often supported by a degree in cybersecurity or computer science and relevant certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and malware analysis platforms is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital for detecting, mitigating, and communicating about cyber threats to protect organizational assets.
What is a cyber defense operator?
Cyber Defense Operators are professionals responsible for protecting an organization’s digital infrastructure from cyber threats, such as hacking, malware, and unauthorized access. They monitor network activity, investigate security incidents, and implement measures to prevent cyberattacks. These specialists use various tools and techniques to detect vulnerabilities and respond quickly to security breaches, ensuring the safety and integrity of sensitive information. Cyber Defense Operators often work as part of a larger cybersecurity team and are essential for maintaining robust information security in today’s digital world.
What challenges does a cyber defense operator face when responding to security incidents?
Cyber Defense Operators often navigate challenges such as rapidly evolving threats, incomplete or ambiguous data, and the need to coordinate with multiple teams under time pressure. Responding effectively requires balancing thorough investigation with swift action to contain threats and minimize damage. Clear communication with IT, management, and sometimes external stakeholders is essential, as is the ability to adapt to new attack vectors and technologies. Continual learning and staying updated on the latest threat intelligence are key to success in this dynamic environment.
More about Cyber Defense Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Cyber Defense Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Defense Operator jobs are:
Full-time
Re-posted 6 days ago
Job description
Job Summary:
Nightwing is a company that provides advanced cyber and data operations services to meet the needs of its customers. They are seeking a Cyber Network Defense Analyst II to support U.S. Government customers by providing incident response to cyber-attacks, monitoring network activity, and analyzing threats to protect vital information systems.
Responsibilities:
• Characterize and analyze network traffic to identify anomalous activity and potential threats to network resources
• Coordinate with enterprise-wide cyber defense staff to validate network alerts
• Document and escalate incidents (including event's history, status, and potential impact for further action) that may cause ongoing and immediate impact to the environment
• Perform cyber defense trend analysis and reporting
• Perform event correlation using information gathered from a variety of sources within the enterprise to gain situational awareness and determine the effectiveness of an observed attack
• Provide daily summary reports of network events and activity relevant to cyber defense practices
• Receive and analyze network alerts from various sources within the enterprise and determine possible causes of alerts
• Provide timely detection, identification, and alerting of possible attacks/intrusions, anomalous activities, and misuse activities and distinguish these incidents and events from benign activities
• Use cyber defense tools for continual monitoring and analysis of system activity to identify malicious activity
• Analyze identified malicious activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information
• Identify and analyze anomalies in network traffic using metadata
• Validate intrusion detection system (IDS) alerts against network traffic using packet analysis tools
• Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
• Reconstruct a malicious attack or activity based off network traffic
• Identify network mapping and operating system (OS) fingerprinting activities
• Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network environment or enclave
Qualifications:
Required:
• U.S. Citizenship
• Active TS/SCI clearance
• Ability to obtain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability
• 5+ years of direct relevant experience in cyber defense analysis using leading edge technologies and industry standard cyber defense tools
• Experience successfully developing and deploying signatures
• Experience detecting host and network-based intrusions via intrusion detection technologies (e.g., Snort)
• Experience implementing incident handling methodologies
• Experience implementing protocol analyzers
• Experience collecting data from a variety of cyber defense resources
• Experience reading and interpreting signatures (e.g. snort)
• Experience performing packet-level analysis
• Experience conducting trend analysis
• BS Computer Science, Cyber Security, Computer Engineering, or related degree; or HS Diploma & 7+ years of network investigations experience
Preferred:
• Python programming experience
• Strong math and science background
• Experience with Carnegie Mellon SiLK tool suite
• One or more of the following professional certifications: GNFA, GCIH, GCIA, GSEC, CASP+, CySA+, PaLMS, FedVTE, GSEC (SANS401), Arcsight (or other SEIM solution), Network+, Security+
Company:
Nightwing provides cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence services for government and commercial customers. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Sterling, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.
Nightwing is a company that provides advanced cyber and data operations services to meet the needs of its customers. They are seeking a Cyber Network Defense Analyst II to support U.S. Government customers by providing incident response to cyber-attacks, monitoring network activity, and analyzing threats to protect vital information systems.
Responsibilities:
• Characterize and analyze network traffic to identify anomalous activity and potential threats to network resources
• Coordinate with enterprise-wide cyber defense staff to validate network alerts
• Document and escalate incidents (including event's history, status, and potential impact for further action) that may cause ongoing and immediate impact to the environment
• Perform cyber defense trend analysis and reporting
• Perform event correlation using information gathered from a variety of sources within the enterprise to gain situational awareness and determine the effectiveness of an observed attack
• Provide daily summary reports of network events and activity relevant to cyber defense practices
• Receive and analyze network alerts from various sources within the enterprise and determine possible causes of alerts
• Provide timely detection, identification, and alerting of possible attacks/intrusions, anomalous activities, and misuse activities and distinguish these incidents and events from benign activities
• Use cyber defense tools for continual monitoring and analysis of system activity to identify malicious activity
• Analyze identified malicious activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information
• Identify and analyze anomalies in network traffic using metadata
• Validate intrusion detection system (IDS) alerts against network traffic using packet analysis tools
• Identify applications and operating systems of a network device based on network traffic
• Reconstruct a malicious attack or activity based off network traffic
• Identify network mapping and operating system (OS) fingerprinting activities
• Assist in the construction of signatures which can be implemented on cyber defense network tools in response to new or observed threats within the network environment or enclave
Qualifications:
Required:
• U.S. Citizenship
• Active TS/SCI clearance
• Ability to obtain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability
• 5+ years of direct relevant experience in cyber defense analysis using leading edge technologies and industry standard cyber defense tools
• Experience successfully developing and deploying signatures
• Experience detecting host and network-based intrusions via intrusion detection technologies (e.g., Snort)
• Experience implementing incident handling methodologies
• Experience implementing protocol analyzers
• Experience collecting data from a variety of cyber defense resources
• Experience reading and interpreting signatures (e.g. snort)
• Experience performing packet-level analysis
• Experience conducting trend analysis
• BS Computer Science, Cyber Security, Computer Engineering, or related degree; or HS Diploma & 7+ years of network investigations experience
Preferred:
• Python programming experience
• Strong math and science background
• Experience with Carnegie Mellon SiLK tool suite
• One or more of the following professional certifications: GNFA, GCIH, GCIA, GSEC, CASP+, CySA+, PaLMS, FedVTE, GSEC (SANS401), Arcsight (or other SEIM solution), Network+, Security+
Company:
Nightwing provides cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence services for government and commercial customers. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Sterling, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.