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Defensive Cyber Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sealing Technologies

Cybersecurity Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Sealing Technologies, a Parsons Corporation company, is a trusted partner in providing powerful edge computing hardware and defensive cybersecurity solutions to protect the Federal Government and ...

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How much do defensive cyber security jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defensive cyber security professional?

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 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.

How much do defensive cyber security professionals make?

Defensive cyber security professionals typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level roles may start around $60,000, while experienced specialists with certifications like CISSP or CEH can earn over $130,000 annually.

Which defensive cyber security job is less stressful?

In defensive cybersecurity, roles such as Security Analyst or Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst tend to be less stressful than incident response or threat hunting positions, as they focus on monitoring and maintaining security rather than handling active breaches. These roles typically involve regular shifts, structured tasks, and less urgent decision-making, which can reduce stress levels. However, workload and stress can vary based on the organization and specific team dynamics.
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Cities with the most Defensive Cyber Security job openings:

What states have the most Defensive Cyber Security jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Defensive Cyber Security jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Defensive Cyber Security jobs are:

Defensive Cyber Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Cyber Security job openings in the United States as of August 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.

Defensive Cybersecurity Operations Specialist

MANTECH

Doral, FL

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

ManTech rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 244 rated software companies

Job description

hackajob is collaborating with MANTECH to connect them with exceptional professionals for this role.

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Defensive Cybersecurity Operations Specialist to join our team in Doral, FL.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Develops and implements a comprehensive defensive cybersecurity strategy aligned with industry best practices (e.g., NIST Cybersecurity Framework, CIS Controls). This includes defining security architecture, selecting security tools, and establishing Incident Response Plans.
  • Proactively monitors threat landscapes, analyzes threat intelligence, and conducts threat hunting activities to identify and mitigate potential threats before they can impact the organization. They also oversee the organization’s Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system and other security monitoring tools.
  • Assists leadership in managing incident response efforts, including containment, eradication, recovery, and post-incident analysis. This includes developing and maintaining incident response playbooks. They also establish and manage a thorough vulnerability management program, including regular vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and remediation tracking.
  • Contributes to the design and implementation of secure IT architectures and evaluates and recommends security solutions to address identified vulnerabilities and improve security posture. They also develop and deliver security awareness training programs to educate employees about cybersecurity best practices and promote a security-conscious culture.
  • Provides technical expertise and mentorship to other members of the Security Team, fosters a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations and security frameworks (e.g., HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR) and support internal and external audits related to cybersecurity.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • BA/BS degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity or a related field. Four (4) years of additional relevant experience may be substituted in lieu of degree.
  • Five (5) or more years experience in a Defensive Cyber Operations focused position for example incident response analyst, defensive cyber operations planner or cyber defense analyst.
  • Deep understanding of cybersecurity concepts, principles, and best practices.
  • Extensive experience with security monitoring tools (e.g., SIEM, IDS/IPS), vulnerability management tools, and incident response methodologies. Strong knowledge of network security, endpoint security, and cloud security.
  • Experience with threat intelligence platforms and threat hunting techniques.
  • Familiarity with relevant industry regulations and security frameworks (e.g., NIST, CIS, ISO 27001).

Desired Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
  • Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, PowerShell), cloud security platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP), and DevSecOps practices. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, SANS GIAC).
  • Experience at a DoD Combatant Command (e.g., SOUTHCOM, NORTHCOM, CENTCOM, CYBERCOM, INDOPACOM, EUCOM, AFRICOM, STRATCOM, TRANSCOM, SOCOM, SPACECOM) or a component is desired.

Clearance Requirements:

  • Must have a current/active Secret security clearance
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance

Physical Requirements:

  • The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time. Occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, or to communicate with co-workers, management, and customers, via email, phone, and or virtual communication, which may involve delivering presentations.

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