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Cybersecurity Co Op Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Information Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$75K - $175K/yr

Progressive internship, co-op, or academic project experience centered on cyber security engineering or threat analysis. * Technical Mastery: Hands-on programming or scripting experience in one or ...

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Internship, research, co-op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ... Interest in cybersecurity, DevSecOps, automation, or data engineering. * Experience with Python ...

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Internship, research, co-op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ... Interest in cybersecurity, DevSecOps, automation, or data engineering. * Experience with Python ...

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Internship, research, co-op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ... Interest in cybersecurity, DevSecOps, automation, or data engineering. * Experience with Python ...

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Showing results 21-40

Cybersecurity Co Op information

What is a cybersecurity co op?

A Cybersecurity Co Op is a structured, paid work experience for students or recent graduates who are interested in gaining hands-on experience in the field of cybersecurity. Co Op participants typically work alongside professional cybersecurity teams in organizations, contributing to tasks such as monitoring networks, analyzing security incidents, supporting risk assessments, and helping implement security measures. This role provides valuable exposure to real-world cyber threats and security tools, bridging the gap between academic learning and professional practice. Cybersecurity Co Ops often serve as a pathway to full-time cybersecurity roles after graduation.

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

To thrive as a Cybersecurity Co Op, you need a foundational understanding of information security principles, networking, and common vulnerabilities, often supported by coursework in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools like Wireshark, Nessus, and basic scripting languages, as well as exposure to frameworks such as NIST or ISO 27001, is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you identify threats and collaborate with teams. These abilities are crucial for proactively mitigating security risks and supporting the organization's cyber defense initiatives.

What types of projects or tasks can a cybersecurity co op expect to work on during their placement?

As a Cybersecurity Co-Op, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on tasks and projects that support the organization's information security objectives. Typical responsibilities include monitoring security alerts, assisting with vulnerability assessments, supporting incident response activities, and helping to implement security policies or tools. You may also collaborate with IT teams on network security initiatives or participate in security awareness programs. This role offers the opportunity to gain practical experience across multiple areas of cybersecurity while working closely with experienced professionals.

What is the difference between Cybersecurity Co Op vs Cybersecurity Intern?

AspectCybersecurity Co OpCybersecurity Intern
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding relevant certifications or degreesUsually students in early stages of cybersecurity education
Work EnvironmentPart-time or full-time cooperative work integrated with academic programsTemporary position, often summer or semester-based
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies to develop future talent, often in tech and finance sectorsCommonly found in tech firms, government agencies, and consulting firms

Cybersecurity Co Op positions are designed for students gaining practical experience during their studies, often with more responsibilities and integration into ongoing projects. Internships are typically shorter, more introductory, and focus on learning basic cybersecurity concepts. Both roles serve as stepping stones into the cybersecurity industry but differ mainly in scope, duration, and level of responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cybersecurity jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Cybersecurity jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cybersecurity Co Op jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Cybersecurity Co Op job openings:

Infographic showing various Cybersecurity Co Op job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Information Security Engineer (2027 Graduate)

Appian Corporation

Mclean, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

The Appian Information Security department continuously evaluates the global threat landscape to protect Appian operations and service offerings. Our mission is to build, monitor, and scale robust security tools and processes that shield critical corporate and customer assets from emerging threats, international security concerns, and vulnerabilities. This role offers an unparalleled launchpad to transition academic knowledge into real-world impact, giving you direct ownership over intrusion detection capabilities and cloud-based defense strategies for our AI-Powered Process Automation ecosystem.

This role is based at our headquartered in McLean, Virginia. Appian was built on a culture of in-person collaboration, which we believe is a key driver of our mission to be the best. Employees hired for this position are expected to be in the office 5 days a week to foster that culture and ensure we continue to thrive through shared ideas and teamwork. We believe being in the office provides more opportunities to come together and celebrate working with the exceptional people across Appian.

What You'll Do

  • Build and scale internal security systems to enable Appian InfoSec to quickly adapt, monitor, and defend against modern attacker techniques.
  • Analyze and investigate complex security-related data pulled from a wide range of security products, logging devices, and endpoint monitors.
  • Design and implement enhanced detection technologies across various Appian systems to proactively surface potential anomalies and vulnerabilities.
  • Conduct comprehensive risk analysis on infrastructure assets and provide actionable recommendations for remediation or mitigation.
  • Execute dedicated security engineering projects that directly improve Appian's overarching intrusion detection, scanning, testing, and response capabilities.

Required Qualifications

  • Education: Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree or Master's in Computer Science, Cybersecurity Engineering, or Computer Engineering with strong academic record.
  • Experience: Progressive internship, co-op, or academic project experience centered on Cybersecurity Engineering or threat analysis.
  • Technical Experience: Hands-on programming or scripting experience in one or more languages, specifically Java, Python, or C/C++.
  • Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate in a professional environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Core Fundamentals: A strong, foundational understanding of network fundamentals and internet protocols, including TCP/IP networking, DNS, and DHCP.
  • Familiarity with administration and security best practices for both Windows and Linux/Unix operating systems.
  • Fundamental knowledge of cloud-based infrastructures (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS) and modern network security architectures.
  • Proven fluency in AI and LLMs, encompassing both the strategic development of AI-powered platform capabilities and the hands-on application of AI tools to accelerate daily workflows. 
  • Demonstrated leadership experience (e.g. executive roles in student organizations, club leadership, or captaincy of team-based activities).

At this time, Appian will not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization for this position.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team! Please note that we will officially begin reviewing applications and scheduling interviews starting August 2026. We appreciate your patience and look forward to connecting with you then.

At Appian, we embrace AI as part of how we work and innovate. While candidates are encouraged to use AI for preparation and learning, we restrict AI usage for live interviews and assessments unless otherwise specified. In some cases, AI use may be part of the assessment, and expectations will be communicated in advance.