ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cyber Defense Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VTG

Cyber Defense Project Integrator

Springfield, VA

$170K - $205K/yr

Overview VTG is looking for a Cyber Defense Project Integrators in multiple locations. (Note ... Document processes, standard operating procedures, and other artifacts supporting cybersecurity ...

AIG

Senior Cyber Defense Incident Responder

Reston, VA · On-site

The Senior Cyber Defense Incident Responder will execute a range of threat discovery and incident ... operating systems, networking, malware defenses, and perimeter controls. • Knowledge of TCP/IP ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsCyber Defense Operator Jobs

Cyber Defense Operator information

See salary details

$34K

$112.9K

$176K

How much do cyber defense operator jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cyber Defense Operator, and why are they important?

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 are some common challenges a Cyber Defense Operator faces 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.

What are Cyber Defense Operators?

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 is the difference between Cyber Defense Operator vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectCyber Defense OperatorCyber Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP (preferred)CompTIA Security+, CISSP, GIAC certifications
Work EnvironmentOperational security teams, SOCs, incident response centersSecurity teams, risk management departments, consulting firms
Primary FocusMonitoring, detecting, and responding to cyber threats in real-timeAnalyzing 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.

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:
Cyber Defense Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cyber Defense Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,871 per year, or $54.3 per hour.
Cyber Defense Project Integrator

Cyber Defense Project Integrator

VTG

Springfield, VA

$170K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Overview

VTG is looking for a Cyber Defense Project Integrators in multiple locations. (Note: position is contingent upon program award and the postions are located in Chantilly VA, Auroro CO & Springfield VA.)


What will you do?

The sponsor’s office is responsible for the integration, application, and implementation of cybersecurity programs. The Sponsor provides computer and network defense and malware solutions for classified, unclassified, networked, and stand-alone systems. The Sponsor provides technical analysis and correlation of threats to the Sponsor’s networks by monitoring all sensors and audit logs for any malicious code, intrusion detection, suspicious network activity, denial of service, or user misuse of resources.

The Sponsor requires project integration support to coordinate across the customer organization, levels above, and with IC mission partners with a focus on cybersecurity information standardization, as well as the development and standardization of cyber defense programs and support.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Provide support to the staff manager to manage a strategic communication effort
  • Draft advisories related to cyber threats, tailored for audiences ranging from senior executives to the teams required to act
  • Document processes, standard operating procedures, and other artifacts supporting cybersecurity operations, including supporting incident response activities
  • Gather, organize, and review evidence in support of cybersecurity standard operating procedure creation and maintenance
  • Track, draft, and respond to data calls
  • Coordinate with organizations as necessary to respond to actions, with ability to further prioritize action response with stakeholders. Coordinate the information flow between all programs, branch managers, and division leadership
  • Gather information from across the Sponsor organization, other components of the office, internal IT customers, and external Sponsor(s)
  • Draft responses appropriate for intended audience
  • Submit response drafts to management for approval and release in accordance with established due dates
  • Analyze trends and identify new opportunities and challenges for Sponsor office's effectiveness to reach a larger audience
  • Coordinate project schedules including participation in meetings, documentation and distribution of action items and tracking for successful completion
 
 

Do you have what it takes?
Requirements:
  • Must possess and maintain a TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph. 
  • A degree (or equivalent experience) in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Business, or a scientific or technical discipline
  • BS 10-12, MS 8-10, PhD 5-7
  • A minimum of 3 years supporting the Customer Domain
  • Demonstrated experience briefing various audiences, including senior leadership, and technical experts
  • Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking and experience resolving complex problems including organizing and structuring solutions
  • Demonstrated experience building rapport and networking with other PMs and Sis to maintain open lines and proactive communication
  • Demonstrated experience collecting, compiling, evaluating, and organizing comments, information, and statistical data on documents/briefings for Sponsor’s review or for publication
  • Demonstrated experience researching cyber-related technical materials
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, and to multitask in a dynamic and challenging environment
  • Excellent writing skills
  • Data-driven thinking
  • Demonstrated experience identifying inconsistencies in program plans
  • Ability to fully coordinate project schedules or agile tasks
  • Ability to coordinate program management process activities such as Program Reviews and Control Gate Reviews including scheduling of meetings and preparation of briefings/presentations
  • Ability to assist in preparation of management plans and reports
  • Ability to maintain correspondence suspense files, records, files for reports, operating procedures, internal memorandums, and compose correspondence
  • Ability to compose technical documents including user manuals, training material, installation guides, proposals, and reports
  • Ability to fully perform tasks requiring the collection, compiling, evaluating, and publishing of information and statistical data

Pay Range: VTG’s estimated starting pay range is $170,000 - 205,000 annually, which is a general guideline for and depending on the geographic location. When extending an offer, VTG also considers work experience, education, skill level, market considerations and may possibly include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range

Qualifications:
Requirements:
  • Must possess and maintain a TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph. 
  • A degree (or equivalent experience) in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Business, or a scientific or technical discipline
  • BS 10-12, MS 8-10, PhD 5-7
  • A minimum of 3 years supporting the Customer Domain
  • Demonstrated experience briefing various audiences, including senior leadership, and technical experts
  • Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking and experience resolving complex problems including organizing and structuring solutions
  • Demonstrated experience building rapport and networking with other PMs and Sis to maintain open lines and proactive communication
  • Demonstrated experience collecting, compiling, evaluating, and organizing comments, information, and statistical data on documents/briefings for Sponsor’s review or for publication
  • Demonstrated experience researching cyber-related technical materials
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, and to multitask in a dynamic and challenging environment
  • Excellent writing skills
  • Data-driven thinking
  • Demonstrated experience identifying inconsistencies in program plans
  • Ability to fully coordinate project schedules or agile tasks
  • Ability to coordinate program management process activities such as Program Reviews and Control Gate Reviews including scheduling of meetings and preparation of briefings/presentations
  • Ability to assist in preparation of management plans and reports
  • Ability to maintain correspondence suspense files, records, files for reports, operating procedures, internal memorandums, and compose correspondence
  • Ability to compose technical documents including user manuals, training material, installation guides, proposals, and reports
  • Ability to fully perform tasks requiring the collection, compiling, evaluating, and publishing of information and statistical data
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply