1

Cyber Network Defender Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cyber Network Defender information

See Washington, DC salary details

$33.4K

$138.3K

$223.7K

How much do cyber network defender jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber network defender in Washington, DC is $138,301.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,800.00 and $169,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cyber Network Defender, you need a strong understanding of network security principles, threat analysis, and incident response, often backed by a degree in cybersecurity or a related field. Experience with intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), firewalls, SIEM tools, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CEH, or CISSP are highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with IT teams and conveying security risks clearly. These abilities are critical to proactively safeguard organizational networks, rapidly respond to threats, and maintain robust cybersecurity defenses.

What is a cyber network defender?

A Cyber Network Defender is responsible for protecting military and government networks from cyber threats. They monitor network activity, analyze security risks, and respond to cyber incidents to prevent breaches. Their duties include threat detection, vulnerability assessment, and implementing defensive measures to strengthen network security. This role requires knowledge of cybersecurity tools, protocols, and incident response procedures. Typically, Cyber Network Defenders work in military or government settings to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of critical systems.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a cyber network defender?

As a Cyber Network Defender, your daily responsibilities often involve monitoring network activity, analyzing security logs, and investigating potential threats or vulnerabilities. You may perform regular system audits, update security protocols, and respond to real-time incidents to prevent or mitigate cyberattacks. Collaboration is common, as you will frequently work alongside systems administrators, IT staff, and other security professionals to ensure the organization's digital assets are protected. Staying current with emerging threats and updating defense strategies is also an important part of the role.

What job categories do people searching Cyber Network Defender jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Cyber Network Defender jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Cyber Network Defender job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,301 per year, or $66.5 per hour.

Cyber Network Defense Analyst with Security Clearance

Agensys Corporation

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Leidos is seeking a Cyber Network Defense Analyst to support the Air Force National Capital Region IT Services (AFNCRIT) program. The position is located at the Pentagon and will augment the 844th Communications Group in implementing DoD, Air Force, and AFDW cybersecurity policies, programs, and initiatives. Primary Responsibilities: * Facilitate Assessment and Authorization efforts for AFDW enclaves. * Support the AFDW Mission Defense Team (MDT) in performing DCO-IDM for the AFDW portion of the AFIN. * Conduct active and passive DCO-IDM to monitor, audit, detect, report, analyze, and mitigate cyber threats. * Support cybersecurity policy, programs, and compliance. * Support CND operations responding to security incidents, INFOCON changes, and Classified Message Incidents (CMIs). * Review and validate SAAR (DD Form 2875) documentation for Air Force compliance. * Coordinate firewall rule changes and DLP waivers. * Perform 8140 compliance auditing. Basic Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant experience; additional applicable experience may substitute for the degree. * Active DoD Secret clearance. * CompTIA Security+ CE or higher / DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification meeting 8140 ISSM role qualification. * ACAS and HBSS experience. * STIG Viewer and STIG auditing experience. * POA&M experience. * Proficiency with Excel, PowerShell, Python, and/or JavaScript. * Ability to brief status to senior Government leadership and stakeholders. Preferred Qualifications: * Experience supporting USAF, DISA, or other DoD mission systems. * Familiarity with eMASS, SCAP Compliance Checker (SCC), or HBSS. * Active Directory management experience. * Experience addressing and assessing RMF security controls. * Ability to communicate risk-based recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders. * EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND) and/or CompTIA CySA+ certification.