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Cyber Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cyber Defense Analyst

Suitland, MD · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Cyber Defense Analyst Location: Suitland, MD Clearance: Active TS/SCI Leidos is seeking a Cyber Defense Analyst to join a mission focused team supporting the Navy's cybersecurity environment at the ...

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software ...

Cyber Defense IAM

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$165K - $190K/yr

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

Cyber Defense Analyst

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Description SAIC is seeking a candidate to fill a Cyber Defense Analyst position on a joint Contractor-Government Cyber Protection Team with our customer at Ft. Meade, MD . Job Duties:

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a candidate to fill a Cyber Defense Analyst position on a joint Contractor-Government Cyber Protection Team with our customer at Ft. Meade, MD . Job Duties:

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a candidate to fill a Cyber Defense Analyst position on a joint Contractor-Government Cyber Protection Team with our customer at Ft. Meade, MD . Job Duties:

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software ...

Cyber Defense Analyst

Helena, MT · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

- Cyber Defense Analyst (26142149) Position Title: Cyber Defense Analyst - ( 26142149 ) Why should you keep reading and consider working here? We know you have other work options, but we ask you to ...

Cyber Defense Analyst

Clearfield, UT · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

As a Cyber Defense Analyst, you will be a member of the Security Operations Center (SOC) team supporting a Department of Defense program of record. The position will be based in Clearfield, UT. This ...

Cyber Defense Analyst

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a candidate to fill a Cyber Defense Analyst position on a joint Contractor-Government Cyber Protection Team with our customer at Ft. Meade, MD . Job Duties:

Cyber Defense Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a candidate to fill a Cyber Defense Analyst position on a joint Contractor-Government Cyber Protection Team with our customer at Ft. Meade, MD . Job Duties:

Cyber Defense Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a candidate to fill a Cyber Defense Analyst position on a joint Contractor-Government Cyber Protection Team with our customer at Ft. Meade, MD . Job Duties:

Showing results 21-40

Cyber Defense information

See salary details

$29.5K

$122.1K

$197.5K

How much do cyber defense jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber defense in the United States is $122,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,500.00 and $149,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cyber defense?

Cyber defense refers to the strategies, technologies, and processes used to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber attacks and unauthorized access. Professionals in this field work to detect, prevent, and respond to threats such as hacking, malware, and phishing. Cyber defense involves monitoring systems for vulnerabilities, implementing security protocols, and regularly updating defenses to stay ahead of evolving threats. It is a critical component of information security for businesses, governments, and individuals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cyber defense, and why are they important?

To thrive in Cyber Defense, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, and relevant qualifications such as a degree in computer science or information security. Familiarity with security tools like SIEM systems, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and certifications such as CISSP or CEH are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial to proactively identify vulnerabilities, respond to threats, and ensure the ongoing protection of organizational assets.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in cyber defense roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Cyber Defense often face challenges such as rapidly evolving cyber threats, managing large volumes of security alerts, and ensuring timely incident response. Keeping up with new attack techniques requires continuous learning and regular training. To address these challenges, teams typically leverage advanced security tools, participate in threat intelligence sharing, and collaborate closely with IT and other business units. Maintaining effective communication and fostering a culture of continuous improvement are also crucial to staying ahead of cyber threats.

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

AspectCyber DefenseCyber Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentDefense teams, security operations centers (SOCs)Security teams, incident response units
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, military, large corporationsPrivate sector companies, consulting firms
Primary FocusProtecting networks from attacks, active defenseMonitoring, analyzing, and responding to security threats

Cyber Defense and Cyber Security Analyst roles share many certifications and work environments, but Cyber Defense typically emphasizes active protection and threat mitigation within defense teams, while Cyber Security Analysts focus on monitoring and analyzing security incidents. Both are vital in safeguarding digital assets, often working together within security operations centers.

What can you do with a cyber defense degree?

A cyber defense degree prepares individuals for roles such as cybersecurity analyst, security engineer, or incident responder, focusing on protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats. Graduates often work with security tools, protocols, and certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+ to enhance their skills and job prospects.
More about Cyber Defense jobs

What cities are hiring for Cyber Defense jobs?

Cities with the most Cyber Defense job openings:

What states have the most Cyber Defense jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Cyber Defense job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,108 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Cyber Defense Analyst

Leidos

Suitland, MD • On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Monitor security tools and analyze alerts for TS/SCI networks, including JWICS and ATLAS.

  • Investigate cybersecurity alerts, perform initial technical analysis, and escalate potential incidents as needed.

  • Create, update, and manage incident and event tickets within the approved ticketing system.


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 500 rated business services


Job description

Cyber Defense Analyst

Location: Suitland, MD
Clearance: Active TS/SCI

Leidos is seeking a Cyber Defense Analyst to join a mission focused team supporting the Navy's cybersecurity environment at the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) Hopper Global Communications Center (HGCC) in Suitland, MD.

In this role, you will serve on the front line of cyber defense, helping protect critical TS/SCI networks by monitoring and investigating cybersecurity alerts, identifying potential threats, and supporting proactive threat hunting activities. You will apply your experience in the Certified Network Defender (CND) discipline and knowledge of IT systems and networks to analyze security events, manage incident tickets, support intelligence gathering and analysis, and communicate findings to key stakeholders.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Perform first line monitoring of security tools and conduct initial analysis of alerts for TS/SCI networks, including JWICS, ATLAS, and other networks for which HGCC is responsible.
  • Monitor organizational cybersecurity tools for alerts, anomalies, and indicators of compromise.
  • Investigate and perform initial technical analysis of cybersecurity alerts and events, escalating potential incidents to Tier 2 as appropriate.
  • Create, update, and manage incident and event tickets within the approved ticketing system.
  • Conduct proactive threat hunting activities to identify potential malicious activity and emerging threats.
  • Perform wireless security scans of facilities and document and report findings.
  • Correlate alerts and security events across multiple platforms to identify patterns, trends, and potential threats.
  • Prepare and deliver operational and situational awareness briefings.
  • Support annual cyber defense exercises.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Information Assurance, or a related area of study desired, with 5+ years of experience.
  • 8+ years of relevant professional experience in lieu of a degree.
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance.
  • 5+ years of concentrated experience in the CND discipline, regardless of degree.
  • 3+ years of professional experience monitoring and investigating alerts from cybersecurity tools.
  • Experience with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems such as Splunk and Elastic.
  • Experience with Network Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (NIDPS), such as Cisco FirePower and Palo Alto NGFW, as well as host based tools such as Trellix ePO, Microsoft Defender, and Tanium.
  • Knowledge of scripting and coding languages such as Python, Perl, Ruby, JavaScript, PowerShell, C, C++, and Java.
  • Knowledge of penetration testing and red team tactics, techniques, and procedures, as well as tools such as Kali, SamuraiWTF, Nmap, Burp Suite, sqlmap, and Metasploit.
  • Knowledge of ticketing systems, report writing, and intelligence gathering, analysis, and dissemination techniques specific to cybersecurity.
  • Strong analytical, conceptual, and problem solving skills.

Required Certifications

  • Must possess one of the following certifications: CompTIA CySA+, CompTIA PenTest+, CompTIA Cloud+, EC Council CEH, GIAC GCIA, GIAC GCIH, GICSP, or Cisco CyberOps.

NITESONI

DABAOPP1

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:August 20, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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