ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cyber Security Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Cybersecurity Specialist

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$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 ...

SevenAI

Principal Security Engineer - AI

Boston, MA · On-site

We are seeking a Principal Security Engineer to join our team and lead the evolution of AI cybersecurity defense, including incident response strategy and AI-driven security automation. As a senior ...

SAIC

Cybersecurity Analyst

San Antonio, TX

Performs network security, cybersecurity defense & analysis, incident response, threat analysis, exploitation analysis, vulnerability analysis, and incident investigations. * Work is performed in a ...

SAIC

Cybersecurity Analyst

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Performs network security, cybersecurity defense & analysis, incident response, threat analysis, exploitation analysis, vulnerability analysis, and incident investigations. * Work is performed in a ...

SAIC

Cybersecurity Analyst

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Performs network security, cybersecurity defense & analysis, incident response, threat analysis, exploitation analysis, vulnerability analysis, and incident investigations. * Work is performed in a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCyber Security Defense Jobs

Cyber Security Defense information

See salary details

$57K

$133K

$186K

How much do cyber security defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 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.
More about Cyber Security Defense jobs
What cities are hiring for Cyber Security Defense jobs? Cities with the most Cyber Security Defense job openings:
What states have the most Cyber Security Defense jobs? States with the most job openings for Cyber Security Defense jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cyber Security Defense jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cyber Security Defense jobs are:
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 1% Internship, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,962 per year, or $63.9 per hour.
Senior Cyber Security Engineer - Border Protection Programs

Senior Cyber Security Engineer - Border Protection Programs

Elbit Systems of America

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Elbit Systems of America is a leading provider of high-performance products and solutions in defense and security. They are seeking a Senior Cyber Security Engineer to lead cybersecurity engineering efforts, focusing on integrating cybersecurity requirements into the system lifecycle and supporting the development of advanced systems for the US Department of Defense.
Responsibilities:
• You will perform various duties related to the day-to-day operations of the Cyber Security Engineering team, including:
• Be a part of a program cybersecurity risk mitigation effort using the Risk Management Framework (RMF)
• Evaluate new and existing systems and architects the software, firmware, and hardware requirements from an IT system engineering perspective
• Participate in development efforts to ensure cybersecurity controls are integrated to meet platform security posture and the Department of Defense (DoD) Authorizing Officials program requirements such as Authority to Connect (ATC), Authority to Operate (ATO), and Authority to Test (ATT).
• Participate in the formal Security Test and Evaluation process required by each government acceptance and approval authority through pre-test preparations, participation in the tests, analysis of the results, and preparation of required reports
• Perform product security reviews with the ability to communicate issues and risks in business terms and make recommendations that balance risk/reward tradeoffs
• Recommend cybersecurity defense and countermeasures for avionics product designs
• Research, evaluate, and assess emerging cyber security threats and technologies
• Evaluate and test new cybersecurity tools and capabilities such as but not limited to vulnerability management, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Network Management Systems (NMS), Incident Responses, Disaster Recovery, and Security Operations.
• You may also conduct research and prepare reports based on findings, to include recommendations or alternative proposals for action.
• Provides general guidance or training to lower-level staff. Assists in cost/scope estimation. May lead small tasks.
• Provides solutions to a variety of technical problems of moderate scope and complexity as part of a project team.
• Provides technical solutions to a wide range of difficult problems. Solutions are creative, thorough, and practical.
• Install and Maintain Hardware, Storage and Integration for Computer Systems
• Design the hardware, storage needs, integration requirements, etc. to meet the needs of the program. This may also include configuring components, and troubleshooting any issues during and after implementation.
• Responsible for design, development and implementation of IT Infrastructure for engineering programs. Participate in overall IT planning, bringing a current knowledge and future vision of technology and systems to meet customer needs.
• You will be expected to continually monitor systems and make necessary adjustments and minor repairs to keep these systems operating smoothly. You may also perform scheduled maintenance on systems to avoid any down time due to system issues. Included in the IT System Engineer’s responsibilities are diagnosing production problems and providing technical, strategic and procedural support to their organizations.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Hold an accredited Bachelor in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or other related engineering degrees with a cumulative GPA of over 3.2 and with a minimum of 5 years of experience in cyber security.
• Hold an accredited Master in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or other related engineering degrees with a cumulative GPA of over 3.2 and with a minimum of 3 years of experience in cyber security.
• Hold an accredited Ph.D. in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or other related engineering degrees with a cumulative GPA of over 3.2.
• Experience with the Risk Management Framework (RMF).
• Knowledge of system security architectures and engineering approaches to building system security solutions.
• Experience with Department of Defense, Government Certification and Authorizing Officials, or federal customer base.
• Understanding of security vulnerabilities found via security tools (i.e., Nessus/Tenable, NMAP, Infrastructure devices, and others).
• Strong understanding of system and infrastructure security.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to understand and follow complex, detailed instructions.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to approach technical problems logically and scientifically.
• Flexibility and ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Ability to work for short to moderate periods without direct supervision.
• Proficient in Linux and Windows operating systems.
• Proficient in Windows Active Directory, VMWare and VCenter (ESXI), and Windows workstations.
• Familiarity with Milestone digital video recorders.
• Working knowledge administering Microsoft SQL Servers.
• Any of the IA certifications identified in DoD 8570 Approved Baseline Certifications.
• Able to travel domestically and internationally up to 20% to support projects.
• Must be able to acquire a Secret Security clearance.
Company:
Elbit Systems of America is an Defense Electronics, Homeland Security, Commercial Aviation, and Medical Instrumentation providing company. It is a sub-organization of Elbit Systems. Founded in 1983, the company is headquartered in Fort Worth, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Apply