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Cyber Operations Planner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cyberspace/Cyberwarfare Instructor

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Cyber Warfare (i.e. conduct and support for cyber mission planning, briefing, execution and debriefing; knowledge of defensive cyber operations, offensive cyber operations, and Cyber Mission Forces)

Cyber Warfare (i.e. conduct and support for cyber mission planning, briefing, execution and debriefing; knowledge of defensive cyber operations, offensive cyber operations, and Cyber Mission Forces)

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Cyber Operations Planner information

See California salary details

$5

$44

$66

How much do cyber operations planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cyber operations planner in California is $44.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.10 and $58.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Cyber Operations Planner do?

A Cyber Operations Planner is responsible for developing, coordinating, and executing plans for cyber missions and operations. They analyze threats, identify vulnerabilities, and design strategies to protect networks and information systems. Their role often involves collaborating with technical teams, military personnel, and leadership to ensure the success and security of cyber operations. In addition, they stay updated on the latest cyber threats and technologies to keep their organization resilient against attacks.

How does a Cyber Operations Planner typically collaborate with other teams during mission planning and execution?

Cyber Operations Planners work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including intelligence analysts, network engineers, and incident response units, to develop and coordinate cyber mission plans. Collaboration is essential, as planners must integrate technical capabilities, intelligence findings, and operational objectives to ensure successful outcomes. Regular briefings, joint planning sessions, and real-time communication tools are commonly used to maintain alignment and adapt plans as situations evolve. This collaborative approach helps ensure that cyber operations are effective, synchronized, and compliant with legal and security protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cyber Operations Planner?

To thrive as a Cyber Operations Planner, you need expertise in cybersecurity principles, network defense strategies, and operational planning, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like intrusion detection systems (IDS), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) platforms, and certifications such as CISSP or CEH are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, clear communication, and collaborative problem-solving are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing effective cyber operations and ensuring organizational resilience against evolving digital threats.

What is the difference between Cyber Operations Planner vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectCyber Operations PlannerCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field; certifications like CISSP, CEHBachelor's in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or related; certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP
Work EnvironmentMilitary, government agencies, defense contractors; strategic planning focusPrivate sector, IT firms, security teams; operational monitoring and incident response
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in defense, intelligence, governmentAcross industries including finance, healthcare, tech
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for strategic roles in cyber defense

While both roles involve cybersecurity, Cyber Operations Planners focus on strategic planning and coordination of cyber defense operations, often within government or military contexts. Cybersecurity Analysts typically handle operational security, monitoring, and incident response in various industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus.

What job categories do people searching Cyber Operations Planner jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Operations Planner jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Cyber Operations Planner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,050 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Information Operations (IO) Planner

Breakforth Solutions Inc

Twentynine Palms, CA • On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

BreakForth Solutions is seeking an Information Operations (IO) Planner to join our team of dynamic professionals. We offer 100% paid medical benefits for the employee and a host of other amazing benefits. Please apply today!   

Essential Functions

  • Supervise the conduct of the MCTOG IO program; oversee, conduct, and produce assignments requiring “performance” to “expert” level knowledge of principles associated with the integration of electronic warfare, operations security, Military Information Support Operations, deception, cyber operations targeting, civil military operations, social media, and public affairs concepts into the MCTOG program as aligned by the MCIOC doctrinal principles.
  • Provide direct support to and coordinate with MCTOG Exercise Design, Intel (HUMINT, SIGINT, Ground), Cyberspace, Social Media Analysis and News Media Replication, Network Engagement, Threat Emulation, Operational Logistics, and simulation SMEs/teams for the planning, preparation, and design of courses and exercises.
  • Provide white cell role-playing in a realistic, simulated environment primarily to members of the United States Marine Corps during exercises in support of the Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG) mission.
  • Maintain and sustain knowledge of current military, political-military, scientific, psychological, cyber, and technical developments within the IO community through liaison with MCIOC, message traffic, intelligence information, data analysis, other sources of information, and/or communication with other identified joint IO staff organizations.
  • Commence long-range plan to institute unique and highly classified programs supporting sensitive activities and special access programs (SAPs) requiring a knowledge of USMC, Joint, DoD, Federal, and non-federal organizations, tactics, policies, and processes. Include, but do not limit to, dealing with sensitive intelligence collection programs and other sensitive activities primarily supporting the USMC, but also DoD in general.
  • Ensure that detailed coordination for sensitive activities and SAPs does not disclose National Security intent, capabilities, or vulnerabilities, and be prepared to brief selected portions to Senior USMC, Joint, and DoD officials, both verbally or in writing.
  • Contribute to exercise orders, CONOPs, and operations process cycles across all six warfighter functions and social media.
  • Participate in curriculum development, teach classes, response cell development and instruction and exercise support for related IO functions.

Required Education/Skills/Experience:

  • Expert knowledge of Military Intelligence and/or Information Operations, with at least 5 years of intelligence/IO experience in any DoD component, or 4 years of IO, operations, policy, military planning, intelligence, or CI experience.
  • Intimately familiar with current MCIOC endeavors, processes, tactics, techniques, and procedures.
  • Graduate of one or more of the following professional military education institutions/programs, resident or non-resident: Expeditionary Warfare School, Command and Staff College, Staff Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Advanced Leadership School, or equivalent levels.
  • Graduate of a formal military Information Operations school, such as MCIOC or a DoD service equivalent.
  • Broad knowledge of information-related capabilities, including doctrine, policy, employment, and practical application of MISO, electronic warfare, operations security, military deception, cyber operations, civilian-military operations, public affairs, foreign area analysis, order of battle analysis, and their application to the MAGTF and GCE.
  • Knowledge of all-source intelligence capabilities and Marine Corps Intelligence Activity, DoD, and National Intelligence functions, including capabilities and limitations, requirement definition, analysis, collection management, operations, and the ability to review threat documents and studies to extract data that satisfies organizational requirements.
  • Knowledge of the Marine Corps Planning Process (MCPP), Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP), and Joint Operation Planning and Execution System (JOPES), with a strong understanding of the USMC, its component elements, established command and staff procedures, staff coordination, and chain of command.
  • Experience coordinating with senior representatives of Combatant and Component Commands, other Services, DoD, selected national intelligence community staff, contractors, and TECOM to exchange information and support mission objectives.
  • Advanced experience developing programs of instruction, course materials, training courses, training plans, training events, and evaluations in accordance withMarine Corps training policy and Formal Learning Center procedures, from platoon to division level.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to multitask efficiently, work in a fast-paced environment across multiple projects, and maintain strong attention to detail.

Desired Knowledge/Skills 

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred in applied sciences, electrical or engineering disciplines, information systems, military science, history, political science, or an equivalent area. A combination of education and experience sufficient to achieve the required abilities is critical for successful performance in this position.
  • Experience in military or equivalent (GS/GG/Contractor) at the operational level, headquarters staff, or Major Command equivalent is desired.
  • pertaining to information operations programs, to discuss major issues, operations, and goals in order to gain cooperation and concurrence to further MCTOG and MCIOC objectives.

Additional Requirements

  • Current Active Secret Clearance
  • Valid U.S Passport is required– Occasional Travel CONUS and OCONUS is required
  • Valid U.S Driver’s License

BreakForth Solutions Incorporated is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other basis covered by applicable law.