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Cybersec Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

DoD 8140 - CSSP Incident Responder certification: • CyberSec First Responder (CFR) • Cisco Cert. Network Assoc. CyberOps (CCNA CyberOps) • CompTIA Pen Test+ • CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst ...

Penetration Tester

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $195K/yr

DoD 8140 - CSSP Incident Responder certification: • CyberSec First Responder (CFR) • Cisco Cert. Network Assoc. CyberOps (CCNA CyberOps) • CompTIA Pen Test+ • CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst ...

CFR - CyberSec First Responder * CHFI - Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator * Cloud+ AND * Computing Environment: Certified in Microsoft Windows Server 2016 or 2019 AND * RSA Archer Certified ...

Cybersec information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$75

$87

How much do cybersec jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cybersec in Virginia is $75.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68.03 and $77.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cybersec vs Network Security Specialist?

AspectCybersecNetwork Security Specialist
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA Security
Work EnvironmentOrganizations' security teams, cybersecurity firmsIT departments, network teams in various industries
Industry UsageBroad cybersecurity roles including threat analysis, incident responseFocus on securing network infrastructure and protocols

Cybersecurity (Cybersec) professionals have a broader scope, including threat detection and incident response, while Network Security Specialists focus specifically on protecting network infrastructure. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in overlapping environments, but their primary responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cybersecurity specialist?

To thrive as a Cybersecurity Specialist, you need a strong understanding of network security, risk assessment, and threat mitigation, often supported by a degree in IT or computer science and relevant certifications. Familiarity with tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, SIEM platforms, and certifications such as CISSP, CEH, or CompTIA Security+ is highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for anticipating threats and collaborating with teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for protecting organizational assets and ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in cybersecurity roles, and how can they be managed?

Cybersecurity professionals often contend with rapidly evolving threats and the pressure to protect sensitive data in real time. Staying updated with the latest security trends and attack vectors is crucial, which can be challenging due to the fast-paced nature of the field. Additionally, balancing proactive security measures with user accessibility and business operations requires strong communication and collaboration with other departments. Building a habit of continuous learning and participating in cross-functional teams can help manage these challenges and contribute to both individual and organizational success.

What is a cybersecurity professional?

Cyber security professionals, often called 'cybersec' specialists, are experts who protect computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and damage. Their responsibilities include monitoring for potential threats, securing sensitive information, and responding to security breaches. They work across various industries to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital assets. Their roles can range from analyzing vulnerabilities to implementing security protocols and educating users about safe online practices.
What are popular job titles related to Cybersec jobs in Virginia? For Cybersec jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cybersec jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cybersec job openings:
Infographic showing various Cybersec job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,795 per year, or $75.4 per hour.

Senior Microsoft Power Applications Developer | Active Secret Clearance | San Diego, CA

ARES Enterprise

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description:

Ares Enterprise is seeking a Senior Microsoft Power Applications Developer to support technical and engineering services for the Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific (NIWC PAC). The Senior Microsoft Power Applications Developer will provide senior-level engineering support for computer systems, software applications, networked environments, and mission/business systems supporting Navy operations.

The ideal candidate will bring advanced technical education and substantial hands-on experience in computer design, software development, or computer networks. This role requires the ability to analyze complex technical requirements, develop practical engineering solutions, support system modernization, and collaborate effectively with government and contractor teams.


Key Responsibilities:

• Provide senior technical support for the design, development, testing, evaluation, integration, and sustainment of computer systems, software applications, and network-enabled solutions.

• Analyze system, software, and network requirements and translate them into technical designs, implementation plans, and engineering recommendations.

• Support software development, systems engineering, integration, troubleshooting, testing, deployment, and operational sustainment activities.

• Evaluate computer system and network performance, identify issues, and recommend improvements to increase reliability, security, and maintainability.

• Support architecture, configuration, and modernization efforts across Navy mission and business systems.

• Develop and maintain technical documentation, system design artifacts, engineering notes, test plans, implementation guides, and operational support materials.

• Collaborate with government stakeholders, engineers, developers, cybersecurity personnel, analysts, and program leadership to deliver reliable technical solutions.

• Support Agile, DevSecOps, or iterative development activities, including requirements refinement, sprint planning, solution design, testing, and release support.

• Mentor junior technical staff and provide engineering input to improve team delivery, quality, and technical consistency.

• Ensure assigned work aligns with applicable government, cybersec

Requirements:

• Demonstrated experience supporting technical engineering tasks in a government, defense, Navy, or enterprise IT environment.

• Strong understanding of computer systems, software development practices, system integration, and networked environments.

• Ability to analyze complex technical issues, develop recommendations, and communicate solutions clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary technical team environment.

• Active Secret clearance or higher.

• Ability to work on-site in San Diego, CA


Typical Education:

• Master’s degree in a quantitative field such as engineering or mathematics (e.g. Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or Information Systems)


Typical Experience:

• 10 years of professional experience with software engineering


Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting NIWC PAC, Navy, DoD, or federal IT/engineering programs.

• Experience with application development, systems support, engineering analysis, software sustainment, or technical modernization activities.

• Experience with applying modern software development methodologies (e.g. agile, DEVOPS/DEVSECOPS) in a professional or academic setting

• Agile Developer certification or Certified Scrum Developer certification

• Experience with one or more programming/scripting languages such as Python, Java, JavaScript, C#, C++, PowerShell, SQL, or similar.

• Familiarity with computer networking concepts, system administration, cloud environments, cybersecurity practices, or configuration management.

• Experience using Jira, Confluence, Microsoft Power Platform, ServiceNow, Git, or similar enterprise tools.


Salary: $140,000.00


About Ares Enterprise:

Adaptability | Reliability | Excellence | Synergy

At Ares, our people are our greatest strength. We foster a collaborative, agile, and growth-oriented culture where employees are empowered to innovate, lead, and make a meaningful impact in support of critical government missions. Whether supporting national defense, enterprise modernization, or emerging technology initiatives, our team is committed to excellence, integrity, and customer success.

Ares Enterprise is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome qualified applicants from all backgrounds. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, business needs, and applicable contract requirements.