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Cyber Operations Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operations Planner

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

This role integrates cyber dependency analysis and risk findings into operational planning, helping translate technical cyber risks into mission impacts and recommended courses of action.

Cyberspace Operations Planner

Odenton, MD · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Conduct and support future operations (FUOPS) planning and defensive cyber operations execution and support to the DCDC mission areas. * Understand product linkages and dependencies of the Joint ...

Conduct and support future operations (FUOPS) planning and defensive cyber operations execution and support to the DCDC mission areas. * Understand product linkages and dependencies of the Joint ...

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Cyber Operations Planner information

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$44

$67

How much do cyber operations planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cyber operations planner in the United States is $44.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.58 and $58.89 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.

More about Cyber Operations Planner jobs
What cities are hiring for Cyber Operations Planner jobs? Cities with the most Cyber Operations Planner job openings:
What states have the most Cyber Operations Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Cyber Operations Planner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cyber Operations Planner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, and 55% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,272 per year, or $44.8 per hour.
Cyberspace Operations Planner, Senior

Cyberspace Operations Planner, Senior

Leidos

Odenton, MD

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

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 sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

The Leidos Intelligence Sector combines technology-enabled services and mission software capabilities in the areas of cyber, logistics, security operations, and decision analytics to support our defense and intel customers' mission to defend against evolving threats around the world.

Your greatest work is ahead!

The Intelligence Sector seeks highly qualified and trained Cyberspace Operational Planners to support Department of Defense Joint Planning processes that underpin United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) operations. Individuals will engage in Cyberspace Operational Planning activities supporting Leidos on-site contract support to USCYBERCOM J3 (Operations), Cyber National Mission Force (CNMF), and Joint Task Force-Ares (JTF-ARES).

This opportunity is in anticipation of a potential future contract award.

What you'll be doing:

  • Provide subject matter expertise in Joint plans development and staffing processes within collaborative environment to enable range of Cyberspace Operations (CO) according to USCYBERCOM planning guidance and applicable Joint publications.
  • Lead targeting selection, validation, synchronization, and enable integration during the execution of activities within Cyber Warfare domain.
  • Draft and staff foundational planning documents such as Operational Plans (OPLANS), Operational Orders (OPORDs), and Fragmentary Orders (FRAGOs).
  • Lead and support Joint Operational Planning Groups and Teams (OPG/OPT), and develop and integrate Cyberspace capabilities into plans.
  • Develop concepts of support, courses of action, integrate command and external capabilities, coordinate and document comprehensive plans.
  • Engage in, and provide situational awareness to, range of projects, Crisis Action Teams, and current operations activities supporting OPTs.
  • Develop and review specific CO plans and guidance for integration into broader planning activities and to ensure that execution and resource allocation decisions align with organization objectives.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of cyber threats and attack methods and techniques emanating from state and non-state adversaries and tiered vulnerabilities within Blue Space as focus of threats.
  • Develop and execute comprehensive programs for assessing CO and validating operational performance characteristics.
  • Review, approve, prioritize, and submit operational requirements for research, development, and/or acquisition of cyber capabilities.
  • Develop and maintain deliberate and/or CO crisis plans
  • Analyze and assess internal and external partner CO capabilities and tools.
  • Transition operational planning efforts to current operations
  • Navigate organizational structure as it pertains to full spectrum CO, including the functions, responsibilities, and interrelationships among distinct internal elements.
  • Integrate and synchronize intelligence planning activities with operational planning timelines.
  • Conduct long-range, strategic planning efforts with internal and external partners in cyber activities.
  • Interpret and apply laws, regulations, policies, and guidance relevant to organization cyber objectives.
  • Communicate complex information, concepts, or ideas in a confident and well-organized manner through verbal, written, and/or visual means.

What does Leidos need from me?

  • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility and Polygraph required.
  • BA/BS degree or higher within STEM field, National Security Studies, or field of study supporting operational art & science, or ability to complete degree within one year of hire.
  • 12 years or greater recent (since 2010) work experience as CO Planner or combined experience in planner position and other CO support positions: can waive two years of experience requirement for every year spent on a Combat Mission Team (CMT) in any work role; can waive two two years work experience requirement for every year spent in an Offensive Cyberspace Operations planner role within a Joint Force Headquarters - Cyber (JFHQ-C) command; OR four years recent (since 2013) work experience in offensive cyberspace capabilities development; can waive two years of experience requirement for every year spent on a CMT in any work roles; can be concurrent with CO Planner or other CO support role.
  • Familiarity with military operations including phases of planning, approval, and execution.
  • Intimate familiarity with applicable Joint Publications such as JP 3-12 Joint Cyberspace Operations and JP 5-0 Joint Operational Planning.
  • Formal training as Cyber Operational Planner within Department of Defense or Intelligence Community.
  • Broad knowledge of Blue-space Cyber capabilities and demonstrate understanding of available Cyber infrastructure or platforms to conduct OCO.
  • Knowledge of the range of CO and their underlying intelligence support needs, topics, and focus areas.
  • Knowledge of computer networking fundamentals as well as concepts, terminology, and operations of a wide range of communications media (computer and telephone networks, satellite, fiber, wireless).
  • Ability to support timely, accurate, relevant analytical production, to include documents, summaries, issue papers, talking points, and briefings.
  • Demonstrated proficiency working in a fast-paced collaborative environment, ability to proactively multi-task and meet short deadlines.
  • Able to work across Department of Defense and Intelligence Community agencies to support organizational goals.

Favorable if you have:

  • Masters degree or higher within STEM field, National Security Studies, or field of study supporting operational art & science.
  • Intimate familiarity with USCYBERCOM organizational structure and mission.
  • Prior experience supporting Joint operations across multiple warfighting domains.
  • Demonstrated experience incorporating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning into operations at any level to increase efficiency and effectiveness of operational outcomes.
  • Experience with Space-enabled CO.
  • Joint Professional Military Education, Phase II (JPME II) graduate, or civilian equivalency.
  • Formal training within field of Cyber Warfare and Joint Operations.
  • Completion of Service-specific or Joint Cyberspace Operational Planning courses, such as Army Cyberspace Operations Planners Course or Joint Cyberspace Operations Planners Course.
  • Familiar with art of Data Science and applicability to CO.
  • Familiar with Microsoft Power BI data visualization software.
  • Desired Certifications: DoD 8570 IAT Level II (CCNA Security, COMPTIA CySA+, COMPTIA Security + CE, GICSP, GSEC, SSCP).

COSS

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:May 19, 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 $116,350.00 - $210,325.00

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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