ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defensive Cyber Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Defensive Cyber Engineer - Journeyman

Fairfax, VA · On-site

In this role, the candidate will serve within Task 3, Cybersecurity Operations Support, performing defensive cyber assessment activities that evaluate security control effectiveness, identify ...

Core4ce

IL · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Support defensive cyber operations initiatives across on-premises and cloud environments * Help develop and improve operational processes, procedures, SOPs, metrics, dashboards, and reporting

Goldbelt, Inc.

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Nisga'a CIOPS delivers cleared professionals to support civilian and DoD customers worldwide across intelligence support, cyber/defensive cyber operations, IT O&M, infrastructure modernization ...

Nisga'a Ciops

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Nisga'a CIOPS delivers cleared professionals to support civilian and DoD customers worldwide across intelligence support, cyber/defensive cyber operations, IT O&M, infrastructure modernization ...

Goldbelt, Inc.

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Overview Nisga'a CIOPS delivers cleared professionals to support civilian and DoD customers worldwide across intelligence support, cyber/defensive cyber operations, IT O&M, infrastructure ...

ECS

Defensive Cyber Assessment Analyst - Senior

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

This position supports Task 3 - Cybersecurity Operations Support - by assisting with security ... The Defensive Cyber Assessment Analyst - Senior operates within a technical environment that ...

Nisga'a Ciops

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Overview Nisga'a CIOPS delivers cleared professionals to support civilian and DoD customers worldwide across intelligence support, cyber/defensive cyber operations, IT O&M, infrastructure ...

Nisga'a Ciops

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Overview Nisga'a CIOPS delivers cleared professionals to support civilian and DoD customers worldwide across intelligence support, cyber/defensive cyber operations, IT O&M, infrastructure ...

Nisga'a Ciops

Cyber Planner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Nisga'a CIOPS delivers cleared professionals to support civilian and DoD customers worldwide across intelligence support, cyber/defensive cyber operations, IT O&M, infrastructure modernization ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefensive Cyber Operations Jobs

Defensive Cyber Operations information

See salary details

$38.5K

$58.2K

$87K

How much do defensive cyber operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive cyber operations in the United States is $58,171.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

In defensive cyber operations, reaching a salary of $500,000 annually is uncommon but possible for senior roles such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or cybersecurity executive with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Most cybersecurity professionals earn lower salaries, but high-level executives with strategic oversight and specialized skills can achieve this level of compensation, often including bonuses and stock options.

What are Defensive Cyber Operations?

Defensive Cyber Operations (DCO) refer to activities and strategies designed to protect computer networks, systems, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and other cyber threats. These operations involve monitoring, detecting, analyzing, and responding to cyber incidents to ensure the security and integrity of information systems. Professionals in this field implement security measures, conduct risk assessments, and develop incident response plans to minimize damage from potential cyberattacks. DCO is essential for government, military, and private sector organizations to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive data.

What are the defensive operations of cyber security?

Defensive cyber operations involve protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats through activities such as monitoring for intrusions, implementing firewalls and intrusion detection systems, applying security patches, and conducting vulnerability assessments. Cybersecurity professionals in this field use tools like SIEMs and threat intelligence to identify and mitigate risks proactively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Defensive Cyber Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Defensive Cyber Operations, you need a solid grounding in network security, threat analysis, and incident response, often backed by a degree in cybersecurity or related fields. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help professionals excel when mitigating threats and collaborating with teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for proactively defending organizational assets and ensuring robust cyber resilience.

What is the difference between Defensive Cyber Operations vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectDefensive Cyber OperationsCybersecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentMilitary, government, or specialized security teamsCorporate, government, or consulting firms
Primary FocusProactive defense, threat hunting, incident responseMonitoring, analyzing, and responding to security threats
Industry UsagePrimarily in government and military sectorsWidely in private and public sectors

Defensive Cyber Operations and Cybersecurity Analysts share similar certifications and work environments, but Defensive Cyber Operations focus more on proactive defense and threat hunting within specialized teams, often in government or military settings. Cybersecurity Analysts typically monitor and respond to threats across various industries, emphasizing analysis and incident response.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Defensive Cyber Operations, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Professionals in Defensive Cyber Operations often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving threats, high-pressure incident response situations, and the need to coordinate across multiple departments. New team members can prepare by staying current with the latest threat intelligence, practicing effective communication skills, and familiarizing themselves with the organization's security tools and protocols. Building strong relationships with IT, legal, and management teams also helps ensure smooth collaboration during security events.

What do cyber defense operations do?

Cyber defense operations involve monitoring, analyzing, and responding to security threats to protect computer networks and systems. Professionals in this field use tools like intrusion detection systems and firewalls, and often hold certifications such as CISSP or CEH to identify and mitigate cyber attacks effectively.

How much does a cyber defense operator make?

A cyber defense operator typically earns between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or security clearances can earn higher salaries. The role often requires knowledge of security tools, network protocols, and threat mitigation strategies.
More about Defensive Cyber Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Defensive Cyber Operations jobs? Cities with the most Defensive Cyber Operations job openings:
What job categories do people searching Defensive Cyber Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Cyber Operations jobs are:
Defensive Cyber Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Cyber Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 35% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,171 per year, or $28 per hour.
Strategic Cyber Operations Analyst

Strategic Cyber Operations Analyst

By Light Professional IT Services LLC

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Company Overview
By Light Professional IT Services LLC readies warfighters and federal agencies with technology and systems engineered to connect, protect, and prepare individuals and teams for whatever comes next. Headquartered in McLean, VA, By Light supports defense, civilian, and commercial IT customers worldwide.
Position Overview
By Light is seeking a Strategic Cyber Operations Analyst to support DCDC cyberspace operations through mission coordination, operational documentation, information organization, and support to the larger cyber operational picture. This role is best suited for a candidate with cyber operations experience (intelligence, planning, or mission support) who can work with operational stakeholders, understand mission requirements, and translate complex cyber activities into clear, usable products developers, leadership and staff.
While this position supports Knowledge Management functions, the primary emphasis is on cyber operations support, mission visibility, operational coordination, and helping directorates capture, organize, and use mission-relevant information more effectively.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as a forward extension of the Knowledge Management team within assigned directorates to support cyberspace operations, mission coordination, and staff effectiveness.
  • Work with cyber operations, planning, intelligence, and mission stakeholders to capture, organize, and maintain mission-relevant processes and information across assigned directorates.
  • Support the implementation of Knowledge Management efforts across assigned directorates, including people, mission workflows, information-sharing practices, and enabling tools.
  • Serve as a Content Manager for specified directorates, ensuring information is accurate, organized, accessible, and aligned to mission needs.
  • Translate operational requirements into logical, integrated, and actionable solutions that support directorate mission objectives.
  • Advise staff members on practical methods to organize information, coordinate activities, document mission requirements, and improve operational visibility.
  • Support the design, documentation, and coordination of mission-aligned workflows, battle rhythms, reporting structures, and operational support products.
  • Provide oversight and assistance with the development and maintenance of operational documentation, briefings, trackers, SOPs, CONOP-related products, lessons learned, action items, and other mission support materials.
  • Work with stakeholders to identify gaps in information flow, coordination, documentation, and mission visibility.
  • Provide recommendations to improve how operational information is captured, shared, maintained, and presented to support leadership decision-making.
  • Support coordination across internal staff, directorates, mission partners, and leadership to ensure operational information is current, complete, and usable.
  • Support Freedom of Information Act requests from higher headquarters or through the task management system, as required.
  • Support Records Management efforts, including metadata tagging, document structure, repository organization, and maintenance of authoritative information sources.
  • Use Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and other collaboration tools to support documentation, information management, task tracking, content organization, and staff coordination.

Required Experience/Qualifications
  • Experience supporting either cyber operations, intelligence operations, military operations, mission planning, operational coordination, or a related DoD/IC mission environment.
  • Ability to understand operational requirements and translate them into clear documentation, coordination products, workflows, briefings, or mission support materials.
  • Foundational working knowledge of Information Management or Knowledge Management concepts.
  • SharePoint end-user experience.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office products, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to engage with operational stakeholders, technical SMEs, and leadership personnel.
  • Ability to organize complex information into clear, usable formats.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced mission environment with changing priorities and multiple stakeholders.

Preferred Experience/Qualifications
  • Basic understanding of SharePoint out-of-the-box features.
  • Experience supporting USCYBERCOM, CNMF, JFHQ, DODIN, COCOM, Service Cyber Component, NSA, IC, or other cyber mission organizations.
  • Experience with cyberspace operations, offensive cyber operations, defensive cyber operations, DODIN operations, SIGINT, information operations, cyber intelligence, targeting, operational planning, or mission assurance.
  • Experience supporting operational documentation such as SOPs, CONOPs, TTPs, orders, briefings, trackers, lessons learned, after-action products, or decision-support materials.
  • Experience participating in or supporting working groups, operational planning teams, coordination meetings, battle rhythms, or cross-functional mission efforts.
  • SharePoint experience creating sites, editing pages, maintaining lists, managing libraries, updating content, and adjusting site permissions.
  • Familiarity with SharePoint Designer or similar collaboration/content management tools.
  • Records Management experience.
  • Experience with metadata tagging, document organization, content governance, or maintaining authoritative repositories.
  • Experience identifying operational gaps and recommending improvements to coordination, documentation, reporting, or information-sharing practices.
  • Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Intelligence Studies, Information Systems, Business, Military Studies, Knowledge Management, or a related field. Relevant operational experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

Special Requirements/Security Clearance
  • Active DoD TS/SCI clearance

Salary Range
Based on the roles, responsibilities, and requirements, the projected pay range for this position is: $120,000 - $155,000.
The annual base salary provided is a guideline for this position and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. When extending an offer, By Light also considers other variables such as (but not limited to) work experience, education, training, skill set, internal peer equity, clearance level, and market conditions. In addition, By Light provides an extensive selection of benefits and offerings to our employees.

Apply