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Cyber Security Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Cybersecurity Specialist

Fort Belvoir, VA

$80K - $120K/yr

Engage in cybersecurity defense activities addressing firewalls, electronic data traffic, and secure network architectures. * Support military cyberspace operations by applying deep engineering and ...

Trilyon, Inc.

Cybersecurity Specialist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$40 - $47/hr

The Cybersecurity Specialist 3 will play a key role in proactive cybersecurity defense, with a focus on threat hunting, incident response, vulnerability management, and security architecture. Job ...

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How much do cyber security defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for cyber security defense in the United States is $132,962.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $150,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Cyber Security Defense roles?

Professionals in Cyber Security Defense often encounter challenges such as staying ahead of rapidly evolving cyber threats, managing high alert volumes, and ensuring clear communication across departments. Balancing proactive threat hunting with reactive incident response can be demanding, especially in fast-paced environments. Additionally, coordinating with IT, management, and compliance teams is essential to implement effective security protocols and keep the organization protected.

How to get into cyber defense?

To enter cyber security defense, develop a strong understanding of network protocols, security principles, and threat detection. Obtain relevant certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and gain hands-on experience through internships or lab environments. Continuous learning and staying updated on emerging threats are essential in this field.

How much does the DOD pay cyber security?

Cyber security professionals working for the Department of Defense (DOD) are typically paid according to the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Higher-level positions or those requiring specialized skills and clearances can earn significantly more, and many roles include benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cyber Security Defense professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Cyber Security Defense, you need expertise in network security, threat analysis, vulnerability assessment, and a solid understanding of security frameworks, often backed by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and certifications such as CISSP, CEH, or CompTIA Security+ is common. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure proactive threat mitigation, rapid incident response, and robust protection of organizational assets.

What is cyber security defense?

Cyber security defense refers to the strategies, technologies, and processes used to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber attacks, unauthorized access, and damage. It involves implementing measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption, and regular security assessments to safeguard digital assets. Professionals in this field work to identify vulnerabilities, respond to incidents, and ensure that organizations remain secure against evolving threats.

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Cyber security professionals, especially those in senior roles such as security architects or managers, can earn $200,000 or more annually, particularly with extensive experience, advanced certifications like CISSP, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Entry-level positions typically have lower salaries, but with experience and specialized skills, reaching this income level is achievable.

What is the difference between Cyber Security Defense vs Network Security Specialist?

AspectCyber Security DefenseNetwork Security Specialist
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA Security, CISSP
Work EnvironmentSecurity operations centers, incident response teamsNetwork infrastructure, enterprise networks
Employer & Industry UsageIT security firms, government agencies, large corporationsTelecommunications, IT departments, service providers
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on overall security posture and threat mitigationFocuses on securing network hardware and traffic

Cyber Security Defense professionals primarily focus on protecting an organization from cyber threats through monitoring, incident response, and security strategies. In contrast, Network Security Specialists concentrate on securing network infrastructure, including firewalls, VPNs, and network traffic. While both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping environments, their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

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

Cyber security professionals, especially senior roles like security architects or chief information security officers, can earn $500,000 or more annually with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Achieving this level typically requires years of specialized experience, a strong skill set in threat management and security tools, and often working in high-demand industries or organizations with large security budgets.
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Cyber Security Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cyber Security Defense job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,962 per year, or $63.9 per hour.
Cybersecurity Specialist

Cybersecurity Specialist

Science Applications International Corporation

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 hours ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 213 rated it services

Job description


SAIC is seeking a highly skilled Cybersecurity Specialist to join our team at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
The Cyber Security Specialist will perform strategic planning and management, and other advanced and specialized cybersecurity functions. This position encompasses critical aspects of security, requiring expertise in areas such as cloud security architecture and enterprise cyber architecture.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the selection and deployment of hardware, software, and cloud service providers, including authoring and assessing Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
  • Implement application and data migration strategies, ensuring simplicity, efficiency, and adherence to short- and long-term security and capacity requirements.
  • Research, evaluate, recommend, and integrate new cybersecurity tools, techniques, and technologies to strengthen enterprise security architecture in alignment with IT security strategies.
  • Conduct vulnerability scanning, incident response, and remediation of physical and cybersecurity systems using both COTS/GOTS and custom tools.
  • Engage in cybersecurity defense activities addressing firewalls, electronic data traffic, and secure network architectures.
  • Support military cyberspace operations by applying deep engineering and cybersecurity knowledge to craft and integrate solutions consistent with enterprise architecture policies.
  • Prepare comprehensive technical reports summarizing security assessments, mitigating activities, and remedial actions.
  • Translate complex cybersecurity concepts and technical work into clear, concise documentation accessible to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and liaise with external customers to provide innovative cybersecurity solutions.

Qualifications
Required Education:
  • Bachelors and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience; PhD and zero (0) years or more experience; four (4) years of experience considered in lieu of degree.

Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated expertise in cloud security architecture, including securing cloud applications, designing and evaluating cloud service provider solutions, and data/application migration to cloud environments.
  • Proficiency in cybersecurity tools and techniques, including vulnerability scanning and incident response for enterprise IT infrastructures.
  • Proven ability to research, evaluate, and integrate modern cybersecurity technologies into organizational infrastructure.
  • Track record of creating highly technical and actionable cybersecurity documentation, including assessment reports and solution design.
  • Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, risk management frameworks, and incident response.
  • Hands-on proficiency with enterprise security tools and technologies, including firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEMs, and cloud-based solutions.
  • Expertise in cybersecurity standards such as NIST, NICE Framework, and other relevant guidelines.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Ability to effectively balance multiple projects, work independently under general direction, and meet outlined objectives with minimal oversight.

Clearance:
  • Must possess a TS/SCI security clearance and willing/able to obtain a CI Poly.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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