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Defensive Cyber Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role involves implementing and maintaining defensive cybersecurity tools and technical controls while supporting various cybersecurity operations and compliance activities. Responsibilities ...

This position supports Task 3 - Cybersecurity Operations Support - by implementing and maintaining defensive cybersecurity tools and technical controls across enterprise systems and enclaves ...

Sr. Manager Cybersecurity

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$125K - $189K/yr

This position leads cybersecurity professionals in developing adaptable defense strategies that integrate both offensive and defensive cybersecurity techniques, utilizing security solutions and ...

Develop and implement realistic cyberattack and defense capabilities for use in training ... Prototype and integrate new cybersecurity technologies, platforms, and operational concepts into ...

This role requires a highly technical leader with demonstrated experience in offensive and defensive cybersecurity operations and penetration testing methodologies. Essential Functions ...

This role requires a highly technical leader with demonstrated experience in offensive and defensive cybersecurity operations and penetration testing methodologies. Essential Functions ...

This role will use their technical knowledge in implementing and using a web application firewall as a protective and defensive cybersecurity control. They will use their experience with networking ...

This role will use their technical knowledge in implementing and using a web application firewall as a protective and defensive cybersecurity control. They will use their experience with networking ...

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Defensive Cyber Security information

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$57K

$133K

$186K

How much do defensive cyber security jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive cyber security 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 defensive cyber security roles?

One of the main challenges in defensive cyber security is staying ahead of constantly evolving threats, as attackers regularly develop new methods to bypass security measures. Professionals in this role must also balance implementing strong security protocols with maintaining usability for end users. Additionally, responding to incidents often requires quick, coordinated action with other IT teams and clear communication with non-technical stakeholders. Ongoing learning and adapting to new technologies are essential for career growth in this fast-paced field.

What is defensive security in cybersecurity?

Defensive security in cybersecurity involves implementing measures to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats and attacks. It includes practices such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, security monitoring, and vulnerability management, which are essential skills for a cybersecurity professional. Certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+ often support roles focused on defensive security.

What are the defensive roles in cyber security?

Defensive roles in cyber security include positions such as security analyst, security engineer, and incident responder, focusing on protecting systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. These roles involve monitoring for threats, implementing security measures, conducting vulnerability assessments, and responding to security incidents using tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) platforms.

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

Defensive cybersecurity professionals typically earn salaries ranging from $70,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Reaching a $500,000 annual salary usually requires senior roles such as security executives, consultants, or specialists with extensive expertise, often supplemented by bonuses, stock options, or consulting fees.

What is defensive cyber security?

Defensive cyber security refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and damage. Professionals in this field implement security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security policies to prevent and respond to cyber threats. Their main goal is to safeguard information and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital assets. Defensive cyber security is essential for organizations to reduce the risk of cyberattacks and comply with regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defensive Cyber Security professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defensive Cyber Security professional, you need a solid understanding of network security, threat analysis, and incident response, typically backed by a relevant degree and industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and endpoint protection platforms is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for proactively identifying vulnerabilities, mitigating threats, and safeguarding organizational assets.

What is the coolest cyber security job?

A popular and often considered exciting cybersecurity role is a Security Engineer or Penetration Tester, who actively tests and improves an organization’s defenses using tools like Kali Linux and Metasploit. These roles involve problem-solving, staying ahead of cyber threats, and often require certifications such as OSCP or CISSP. They offer dynamic work environments and opportunities to work on cutting-edge security challenges.

What is the difference between Defensive Cyber Security vs Security Analyst?

AspectDefensive Cyber SecuritySecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentSecurity teams, cybersecurity firms, IT departmentsSecurity teams, cybersecurity firms, IT departments
Employer & IndustryAny industry with IT infrastructure, government, finance, healthcareAny industry with IT infrastructure, government, finance, healthcare

Defensive Cyber Security focuses on protecting systems through firewalls, intrusion detection, and security protocols. Security Analysts monitor, analyze, and respond to security incidents. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, Defensive Cyber Security emphasizes proactive defense strategies, whereas Security Analysts focus on incident response and analysis.

More about Defensive Cyber Security jobs
What cities are hiring for Defensive Cyber Security jobs? Cities with the most Defensive Cyber Security job openings:
What states have the most Defensive Cyber Security jobs? States with the most job openings for Defensive Cyber Security jobs include:
Infographic showing various Defensive Cyber Security job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $132,962 per year, or $63.9 per hour.
FMS Defensive Cybersecurity Engineer, Mid

FMS Defensive Cybersecurity Engineer, Mid

Booz Allen Hamilton

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

FMS Defensive Cybersecurity Engineer, Mid

The Opportunity:

Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your experience in cybersecurity that will support international Security Cooperation? As a Cybersecurity Engineer, you will deliver the technical foundation and operational expertise required to modernize allied defense. Your role is to bridge the gap between U.S. standards and partner capabilities by deploying interoperable security stacks and building the workforce skills necessary for independent and joint defense operations. You don't just deliver tools, you deliver the capability for our allies to fight and win in cyberspace.

In this role, you'll closely impact international Security Cooperation with U.S. Allies and Partner by delivering modern Cybersecurity capabilities to meet global security requirements. With mentoring, challenging hands-on problem-solving, and opportunities to learn new tools and skills, we focus on growing as a team to make the best solutions for our customers.

What you'll do Do:

  • Deploy Interoperable SOC Stacks, and lead the hands-on installation and tuning of SIEM, SOAR, and XDR solutions within partner environments.
  • Ensure these platforms are optimized for real-time data sharing and seamless integration with U.S. defensive frameworks.
  • Design and execute technical "train-the-trainer" programs.
  • Work side-by-side with partner nation engineers to transition advanced skills in threat hunting, incident response, and SOC management, aligned with the NICE Framework.
  • Architect log ingestion and data integration frameworks that normalize multi-source intelligence. By delivering these pipelines, you enable allies to contribute to a shared, high-fidelity Common Operational Picture (COP).
  • Build and manage cloud-based virtual cyber ranges and integrated Learning Management Systems (LMS).
  • Provide the "digital playgrounds" where partner forces can safely simulate adversarial TTPs and validate their tactical proficiency.
  • Execute the tactical rollout of Zero Trust controls, such as identity and micro-segmentation to enable secure collaboration. You deliver technical architecture that allows partners to access shared mission data without compromising national security.
  • Spearhead the technical delivery of cyber range solutions for emulated environments, and provide the range infrastructure and real-time technical mentorship that matures partner nation response capabilities under combat-speed conditions.
  • Technical Advisory for Procurement: Conduct deep-dive evaluations of cyber solutions to ensure partners acquire battle-ready, DoD-compatible technology that fits their specific operational requirements and workforce maturity level.

Join us. The world can't wait.

You Have:

  • 3+ years of experience in cybersecurity engineering, including deploying technical solutions in support of DoD or international security cooperation
  • Experience in configuring SIEM/XDR platforms and managing virtualized lab environments, such as VMware, AWS, or Azure
  • Ability to translate complex technical concepts into structured training and performance-based evaluations for broad audiences
  • Secret clearance
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Information Assurance Management (IAM), Information Assurance Technical (IAT), or Information Assurance System Architect and Engineer (IASAE) Level I DoD 8570.1M certification

Nice If You Have:

  • Experience working with foreign military cyber units in OCONUS environments
  • Experience in Python or PowerShell to automate range deployments and data normalization for partner networks
  • TS/SCI clearance
  • CISSP, GCIH, or GCIA certification
  • Completion of specialized training in cyber range orchestration

Clearance:

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Secret clearance is required.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $69,300.00 to $158,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Identity Statement

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.

Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.

  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.

  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.

  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.


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About Booz Allen Hamilton

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Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914