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Cyber Network Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... standard operating procedures or national standards - Proficiency with designing cyber security ... network investigations experience. Desired Certifications: - DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, ...

... standard operating procedures or national standards - Proficiency with designing cyber security ... network investigations experience. Desired Certifications: - DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, ...

... standard operating procedures or national standards - Proficiency with designing cyber security ... network investigations experience. Desired Certifications: - DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, ...

... standard operating procedures or national standards - Proficiency with designing cyber security ... network investigations experience. Desired Certifications: - DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, ...

... standard operating procedures or national standards - Proficiency with designing cyber security ... network investigations experience. Desired Certifications: - DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, ...

... standard operating procedures or national standards - Proficiency with designing cyber security ... network investigations experience. Desired Certifications: - DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cyber Network Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$46.1K

$131.5K

$186.9K

How much do cyber network operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber network operator in Virginia is $131,503.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $146,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cyber Network Operator vs Network Security Analyst?

AspectCyber Network OperatorNetwork Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNACompTIA Security+, CISSP
Work EnvironmentNetwork operations centers, IT departmentsSecurity teams, cybersecurity departments
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom, government, large enterprisesFinancial, healthcare, government agencies
Primary FocusMaintaining network operations and performanceIdentifying and mitigating security threats

While both roles involve network-related tasks, a Cyber Network Operator primarily focuses on maintaining and managing network infrastructure, ensuring smooth operations. In contrast, a Network Security Analyst concentrates on protecting networks from security threats and vulnerabilities. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers align skills and expectations accordingly.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Cyber Network Operators typically earn salaries ranging from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, with top-tier professionals in specialized roles or with extensive experience potentially earning higher salaries. Achieving a $500,000 annual income usually requires advanced positions, leadership roles, or consulting work, often supplemented by certifications like CISSP or CEH and experience in high-demand environments. Such earnings are uncommon for standard roles but possible at senior levels or through entrepreneurial ventures in cybersecurity.

What is a cyber network operator?

A cyber network operator is a professional responsible for managing, monitoring, and securing computer networks to ensure their reliable and safe operation. They often work with network hardware, security tools, and protocols, and may hold certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA. The role typically requires strong technical skills and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cyber Network Operator, and why are they important?

Cyber Network Operators require a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, cybersecurity principles, and often a degree or certification such as CompTIA Network+ or Security+. Familiarity with network monitoring tools, intrusion detection systems, and common operating systems is crucial in this role. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators identify, resolve, and report security incidents. These skills are vital for ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of critical network infrastructure in dynamic environments.

Is SOC an entry level job?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst role is often considered entry level, especially for positions requiring basic knowledge of cybersecurity tools, network monitoring, and incident response. However, some SOC roles may require prior experience or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA, depending on the complexity of the environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Cyber Network Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Cyber Network Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to rapidly evolving security threats, managing complex network infrastructures, and maintaining high operational readiness. Staying updated on the latest cyber threats and regularly participating in training exercises can help operators remain vigilant and prepared. Additionally, collaborating closely with IT teams and other cybersecurity professionals ensures prompt identification and resolution of vulnerabilities, making teamwork and continuous learning essential for success in this role.

What are Cyber Network Operators?

Cyber Network Operators are professionals responsible for maintaining, monitoring, and defending computer networks against cyber threats. They configure, manage, and troubleshoot network systems, ensuring their security and operational integrity. These operators often work in military, government, or large organizational settings, where they play a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive information. Their duties can include detecting intrusions, responding to incidents, and implementing cybersecurity protocols. They must stay updated on the latest cyber threats and network technologies to effectively protect their organization's digital infrastructure.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Cyber Network Operator can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month through experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA. These roles often involve managing network security, troubleshooting, and monitoring systems in high-demand environments, sometimes with on-the-job training rather than formal degrees.
What are popular job titles related to Cyber Network Operator jobs in Virginia? For Cyber Network Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cyber Network Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Network Operator jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Cyber Network Operator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,503 per year, or $63.2 per hour.

Cyber Network Forensic Analyst II

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 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.
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 Network Forensics Analyst to support this critical customer mission.
Responsibilities:
- Assists the Government lead in coordinating teams in preliminary incident response investigations;
- Assists the Government lead with interfacing with the customer while on site;
- Determines appropriate courses of actions in response to identified and analyses anomalous network activity;
- Assesses network topology and device configurations identifying critical security concerns and providing security best practice recommendations;
- Assists with the writing and publishing of Computer Network Defense guidance and reports on incident findings to appropriate constituencies;
- Collects network intrusion artifacts (e.g., PCAP, domains, URI's, certificates, etc.) and uses discovered data to enable mitigation of potential Computer Network Defense incidents;
- Analyzes identified malicious network activity to determine weaknesses exploited, exploitation methods, effects on system and information;
- Collects network device integrity data and analyze for signs of tampering or compromise;
- Assists with real-time CND incident handling (i.e., forensic collections, intrusion correlation and tracking, threat analysis, and advising on system remediation) tasks to support onsite engagements.
Required Skills:
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must have an active TS/SCI clearance
- Must be able to obtain DHS Suitability
- 5+ years of directly relevant experience in network investigations- In depth knowledge of CND policies, procedures and regulations
- In depth knowledge of TCP/IP protocols
- In depth knowledge of standard protocols - ICMP, HTTP/S, DNS, SSH, SMTP, SMB, NFS, etc.
- In depth knowledge and experience of Wifi networking
- In depth knowledge and experience of network topologies
- DMZ's, WAN's, etc.- Substantial knowledge of Splunk (or other SIEM's)
- Understanding of MITRE Adversary Tactics, Techniques and Common Knowledge (ATT&CK)
- Knowledge of Computer Network Defense policies, procedures, and regulations
- Knowledge of defense-in-depth principles and general attack stages with respect to network security architecture
- Ability to characterize and analyze network traffic to identify anomalous activity and potential threats to network resources
- Ability to identify and analyze anomalies in network traffic using metadata- Experience with reconstructing a malicious attack or activity based on network traffic
- Experience examining network topologies to understand data flows through the network
- Must be able to work collaboratively across physical locations
Desired Skills:
- Substantial knowledge of network device integrity concepts and methodologies
- Proficiency with network analysis software (e.g. Wireshark)
- Proficiency with carving and extracting information from PCAP data
- Proficiency with non-traditional network traffic (e.g. Command and Control)
- Proficiency with preserving evidence integrity according to standard operating procedures or national standards
- Proficiency with designing cyber security systems and environments in a Linux and/or Windows environment
- Proficiency with virtualized environments
Required Education:
BS Computer Science, Cyber Security, Computer Engineering, or related degree; or HS Diploma & 7-9 years of network investigations experience.
Desired Certifications:
- DoD 8140.01 IAT Level II, IASAE II, CSSP Analyst- DoD 8140.01 GCIA, GCIH, CSSP Analyst/CSSP Incident Responder- DoD 8140.01 CEH, CSSP Analyst- SANS GIAC GNFA preferred
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.