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Darpa Seta Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Technical SETA

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

We have a near-term need for a Technical SETA to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA ... Support the DARPA PM in strategic analyses, market research, special studies, and road mapping ...

The successful candidate will serve as a Quantitative Analyst SETA supporting DARPA program managers in the development, integration, and scaling of complex adaptive system modelling and data ...

IT Network Operations SME (SETA) Twenty8Tech (a REDHAWK Company) has an immediate opening for an ... Oversee the day-to-day operations of DARPA's networks and data centers, to ensure high availability ...

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How much do darpa seta jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa seta in the United States is $77,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DARPA SETA?

A DARPA SETA (Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance) job involves providing specialized technical and analytical support to DARPA program managers. SETA contractors are not government employees but work closely with DARPA to assist in managing research programs, evaluating technologies, and ensuring project success. They offer expertise in fields such as engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and defense technologies. SETA personnel help shape cutting-edge innovation while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and agency objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA SETA, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DARPA SETA, you need a strong background in science or engineering, typically with an advanced degree and relevant technical expertise. Familiarity with government contracting processes, project management tools, and security clearance requirements is essential. Exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help SETAs effectively support program managers and interface with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure that technical advice and project oversight are both rigorous and aligned with DARPA's mission to drive innovation in defense technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working as DARPA SETA contractors, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in DARPA SETA roles often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, protecting sensitive information, and navigating complex stakeholder relationships. To address these, it's important to stay flexible, maintain strong communication skills, and adhere strictly to security protocols. Collaborating closely with DARPA program managers and other contractors helps ensure alignment with mission objectives and program requirements. Building a strong professional network within the agency can also help in anticipating changes and accessing necessary resources.

What is the difference between Darpa Seta vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectDarpa SetaCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, specialized training in defense projectsCertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP often preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, classified projectsPrivate companies, government agencies, cybersecurity firms
Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military sectorsBroadly in IT, finance, healthcare, and government sectors

Darpa Seta roles focus on defense-related projects requiring security clearances and work within government or military environments. Cybersecurity Analysts work across various industries, focusing on protecting digital assets and networks. While both roles involve security, Darpa Seta is specialized in defense projects, whereas Cybersecurity Analysts have a broader industry application.

What cities are hiring for Darpa Seta jobs?

Cities with the most Darpa Seta job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Darpa Seta jobs?

The most popular types of Darpa Seta jobs are:

Infographic showing various Darpa Seta job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,940 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Cyber Tech SETA-DARPA, TS/SCI

Blue Sky Innovators

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Seeking to fill multiple positions with highly motivated and experienced Technical Subject Matter Experts (SETA) to join our team.ย  Successful candidates will lead activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, and program-funded test coordination.ย  The candidate will also be responsible for coordinating meetings, assessing performer technical progress, projecting performer outcomes, and ensuring that project management best practices are followed by performers and independent verification and validation entities funded by DARPA.ย  The ideal candidate should possess technical expertise and experience in reverse engineering and vulnerability research.ย  Exemplary candidates will have demonstrated success with learning new subjects and rapidly gaining insights into current and next-generation research and prototyping, preferably with hands-on leadership of research and development programs in the defense sector.

Responsibilities:

  • Utilize advanced reverse engineering techniques to analyze software, firmware, and hardware for vulnerabilities and potential exploitation vectors.
  • Develop and execute red teaming engagements, emulating adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in critical systems.
  • Conduct in-depth vulnerability research, focusing on emerging threats, zero-day exploits, and advanced persistent threats (APTs).
  • Develop proof-of-concept exploits and tools to demonstrate the impact of identified vulnerabilities and aid in the development of mitigation strategies.
  • Provide expert technical guidance and recommendations to government stakeholders on vulnerability remediation, secure coding practices, and defensive countermeasures.
  • Contribute to the development of threat intelligence products, technical reports, and briefings for senior government officials and technical stakeholders.
  • Stay abreast of the latest trends in offensive security research, reverse engineering tools and techniques, and emerging exploit methodologies.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
  • Experience in reverse engineering, vulnerability research, and red teaming.
  • Expert-level proficiency in:
    • Disassembly and analysis of x86/x64, ARM, and embedded system architectures.
    • Utilizing reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, Binary Ninja, and debuggers (e.g., WinDbg, OllyDbg).
    • Identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in software, firmware, and hardware.
    • Scripting and programming languages (e.g., Python, C/C++, Assembly).
    • Network protocols and analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump).
  • Strong understanding of operating systems internals (Windows, Linux, RTOS).
  • Experience with exploit development techniques, shellcode writing, and bypassing security mitigations.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience with vulnerability disclosure processes and responsible disclosure practices.
  • Contributions to open-source security tools or research publications.
  • Relevant industry certifications (e.g., OSCP, OSCE, GPEN, GXPN, GREM).

Clearance: Active Top Secret/SCI required.

Salary range for the position is $150,000 - $250,000 per year. Specific compensation will be determined by several factors including experience, education, skills, and knowledge. We also offer medical/dental/vision benefits and 401k contribution.