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Defensive Cyber Security Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Cybersecurity Engineer Co-op

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$48K - $86K/yr

Cybersecurity Co-ops may develop complex, defensive cybersecurity solutions for trainer systems and their development environments, and assess and upgrade Linux servers and workstations. All work is ...

Leidos

Cybersecurity Engineer Co-op

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$48K - $86K/yr

Cybersecurity Co-ops may develop complex, defensive cybersecurity solutions for trainer systems and their development environments, and assess and upgrade Linux servers and workstations. All work is ...

Leidos

Cyber Security Watch Officer

Odenton, MD · On-site

Serve as a Cyber Security Watch Officer (CSWO) on the DISA GSM-O II program supporting the DISA ... Support the DJOC Battle Captain and senior CSWOs with all Cyber Defense and Network Assurance ...

Leidos

Cyber Security Watch Officer

Odenton, MD · On-site

Serve as a Cyber Security Watch Officer (CSWO) on the DISA GSM-O II program supporting the DISA ... Support the DJOC Battle Captain and senior CSWOs with all Cyber Defense and Network Assurance ...

KBR

Cybersecurity Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$213K - $320K/yr

The Cybersecurity Manager is responsible for leading all cybersecurity and information assurance activities supporting Department of Defense programs. This position provides technical and managerial ...

KBR, Inc

Cybersecurity Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$97 - $145/hr

The Cybersecurity Manager is responsible for leading all cybersecurity and information assurance activities supporting Department of Defense programs. This position provides technical and managerial ...

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All JobsDefensive Cyber Security JobsDefensive Cyber Security Jobs in Washington, DC

Defensive Cyber Security information

See Washington, DC salary details

$64.6K

$150.6K

$210.7K

How much do defensive cyber security jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive cyber security in Washington, DC is $150,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,700.00 and $169,900.00 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 does defensive cyber security pay?

Defensive cyber security professionals, such as security analysts or engineers, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually in the United States, 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. Salaries are also influenced by the size of the organization and the complexity of security systems managed.

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 often have regular hours and involve routine tasks, though they still require vigilance and technical skills with tools like SIEM systems.

What are popular job titles related to Defensive Cyber Security jobs in Washington, DC?

For Defensive Cyber Security jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defensive Cyber Security jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Defensive Cyber Security jobs in Washington, DC are:

Defensive Cyber Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Cyber Security job openings in Washington, DC 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 $150,592 per year, or $72.4 per hour.

Defensive Cybersecurity Analysis - HOT!

Secure Technologies Group

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$110K - $143K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

This is simple - if you can say yes I have these three things, we want to talk with you!
- TS/SCI clearance, with full scope polygraph - active.
- GCIH or GCIA certification - active.
- Minimum eight (8) years of experience in cybersecurity, preferably in a SOC type environment.
GCIH = GIAC Global Certified Incident Handler
GCIA = GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst
Send your resume to careers@securetg.com or just apply here.
Let's make a positive impact on U.S. National Security!
We are building a World-Class, distributed, Cyber Incident Response Center - want to be a part of it?
The pay is awesome - the tasking is interesting, engaging, and challenging!
Why come to the SecureTech family?
- We really do consider employees first in decisions. It is hard enough to work through the personal/social/technical hurdles that come with your position as a cleared defense contractor - no need to fight your own employer's red tape as well.
- We offer a compensation package that is more than just commensurate with this closed contractor community. We offer generous benefits (PTO, training support, etc) in addition to the high salaries. We know that you know - salary isn't everything.
- SecureTech is an Equal Opportunity Employer - we hire the right people for the job - regardless of employment status such as female, minority, protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, etc.
Our concern is that you are qualified for the position, and that you are placed in a position in which you can be successful!
Apply now! Multiple positions are awaiting your expertise!
Or send your resume to careers@securetg.com

Apply