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Cyber Operations Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This role blends operational cyber expertise with organizational effectiveness, ensuring that ... Lead the planning, deployment, and execution of cyber efforts focused on AI-enhanced capabilities

This role blends operational cyber expertise with organizational effectiveness, ensuring that ... Lead the planning, deployment, and execution of cyber efforts focused on AI-enhanced capabilities

Cyber Operations Officer Job Locations US-VA-McLean Job ID 2026-13898 # of Openings 1 Benefit Type ... Key Responsibilities Lead the planning, deployment, and execution of cyber efforts focused on AI ...

ICF is seeking a Cyber Operations Specialist for a program responsible for ensuring critical ... Help develop processes used for internal and external planning and collaboration * Participate in ...

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Cyber Operations Planner information

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$5

$44

$66

How much do cyber operations planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cyber operations planner in Virginia is $44.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.29 and $58.37 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, and why are they important?

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 Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Operations Planner jobs in Virginia are:
Cyber Operations, Technical, & Acquisition SME

Cyber Operations, Technical, & Acquisition SME

Systems Planning and Analysis

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.  

The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity.  We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense.  Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.

The Strategic Technology Analysis Group, part of SPA's Space and Intelligence Division, offers sophisticated capabilities (people, process & tools) to resolve unique problems in space, cyber, and special operations in support to military services, Secretary of Defense offices (OSD) and theater warfighters.  Our portfolio includes the Assistant Secretary of Air Force for Space Acquisition & Integration (SAF/SQ), Joint Warfare Analysis Center (JWAC), Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP), National Space Defense Center (NSDC), Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC), Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO), US Space Command (USSPACECOM) and US Space Force (USSF).  Come be a part of a high-speed low-drag organization providing unique and tailored solutions for our National Defense!

SPA has a need for a Cyber Operations, Technical, & Acquisition SME.

Responsibilities

This position directly supports a DoW R&D rapid prototyping development program and a federated team of military, civilian, and contracted personnel which develops accesses, discovers vulnerabilities, and engineers cyber tools and develops tactics, techniques, and procedures for the potential use of these assets and capabilities in offensive cyber operations.

  • Generate, validate, and oversee contract performance, testing evaluation, and/or operational acceptance.
  • Plan and lead DoW Cyber acquisition/development activities.
  • Budget and develop cyber task direction letters, SOWs, key tasks, critical milestones, progress reports, project schedule, and revise documents to meet program objectives.
  • Abandon development efforts (fail fast) to redistribute resources and reallocate efforts while simultaneously keeping multiple stakeholders informed.
  • Write requirements for cyber capability development and operations planning.
  • Analyze organizational cyber policy, determine the validity of technology trend data, define and integrate current and future mission environments, establish and maintain communication channels and seek consensus with stakeholders, and transition partners.
  • Review monthly progress reports from performers both fiscal and technical.
  • Draft spend plans, track funding requests and expenditures, coordinate quarterly Technical Exchange Meetings (TEMS) including security, attendance / invitations, agendas, and reports / due outs.
  • Assist in maintaining program schedule and meeting program fiscal goals, along with enforcing security protocols and principles.
  • Ensure capabilities being developed meet DoW / USCYBERCOM requirements and R&D Office programmatic schedules.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Active TS/SCI security clearance at time of application
  • 10+ years of technical and operational leadership experience including leading teams or units at tactical, operational, Combatant Command, and national levels to include relevant intelligence community experience (Cryptology, SIGINT, Computer Network Operations)
  • Experience in planning and leading DoW Cyber acquisition/development activities
  • Experience budgeting and developing cyber task direction letters, statements of work, progress reports, project schedules, etc.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication (oral and written) skills
  • Experience using critical thinking to prepare written reports and presentations for senior decision makers
  • Demonstrated knowledge and familiarity with writing requirements for cyber capability development and operations planning
  • Demonstrated initiative and ability to plan, work, and deliver leading a diverse team focused on delivering critical cyber capabilities
  • Demonstrated experience supporting IC or DoD Compartmented/Special Access Programs (CAPs/SAPs)
  • Knowledge of current and emerging cyber technologies
  • Knowledge of risk management processes (e.g., methods for assessing and mitigating risk)
  • Knowledge of emerging technologies that have potential for exploitation
  • Knowledge of external organizations and academic institutions with cyber focus (e.g., cyber curriculum/training and Research & Development)
  • Leadership and soft skills to include the ability to work independently and lead a team, good communication, attention to detail, and mentoring skills
  • Ability to travel 10% of the time
  • Able to work full time in a Chantilly VA office within SCIF/SAPF spaces; NO or very limited remote work

Desired Qualifications

  • Program Management certification (PMP or DAWIA Level II/III)

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain the top talent.  Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.  Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only.  Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.  Salary pay range:  200k - 225k

Pay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $200,000.00/Yr. - USD $225,000.00/Yr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME