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Defensive Cyber Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

Nrel

Adversarial Cybersecurity Researcher

Golden, CO · Hybrid

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of offensive and defensive cybersecurity methodologies, hands-on experience designing and conducting controlled adversarial experiments, and ...

AnaVation

Cybersecurity Architect/Engineer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Cybersecurity Architect is responsible for the design, development, implementation, and ... You will assist with integrated dynamic Cyber defense: coordinating and maintaining security ...

AnaVation

Cybersecurity Architect/Engineer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Cybersecurity Architect is responsible for the design, development, implementation, and ... You will assist with integrated dynamic Cyber defense: coordinating and maintaining security ...

BTAS, Inc.

IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Cybersecurity Boundary Defenses role supports the United States Transportation Command ... defensive cyber operations-internal defensive measures, and overall cyberspace operations in ...

KBR

Cybersecurity Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$213K - $320K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Jobtailor

Senior Principal Cybersecurity Engineer

Troy, MO · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Maintain an up-to-date awareness of offensive and defensive cybersecurity activities in the public/commercial domain and working to accelerate cyber operations as appropriate * Break down long-term ...

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Defensive Cyber Security information

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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.

Cyber Defense Analyst

Omniscius Consulting

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Schedule: Shift work required
We are seeking a Cyberspace Defensive Analyst to support cyber defense operations in a mission-critical environment. The analyst will assist with network defense coordination, cybersecurity research and analysis, cyber incident support, and the evaluation of network threats and defensive capabilities.
Responsibilities
  • Coordinate network defense operations with DoD Component Commands, Military Services, Defense Agencies, Field Activities, Intelligence Agencies, law enforcement organizations, and other U.S. Government organizations.
  • Conduct research and analysis of cybersecurity capabilities supporting data protection and network defense requirements.
  • Analyze the lifecycle of network threats, attack vectors, exploitation methods, and malicious cyber activity.
  • Support the utilization, configuration, and implementation of cybersecurity capabilities, including web content filtering and email security technologies.
  • Coordinate and provide support for cyber-related incidents and cybersecurity issues.
  • Support the development and analysis of Malware Analysis Reports, malicious activity alerts, and Suspicious Contact Reports.
  • Assist with identifying, assessing, and communicating potential malicious cyber activity.
  • Coordinate and engage with relevant government and Defense Industrial Base stakeholders regarding network protection activities.
  • Support defensive cyberspace operations within a fast-paced, mission-focused environment.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Information Systems Management, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related discipline. Relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of the education requirement.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with CI Polygraph.
  • Ability and willingness to support shift work.
  • Desired Qualifications
  • Three (3) or more years of relevant cyber defense or cybersecurity experience.
  • Experience supporting network defense operations within DoD, the Intelligence Community, law enforcement, or another U.S. Government organization.
  • Understanding of cyber threats, attack vectors, exploitation techniques, malware, and defensive cybersecurity capabilities.
  • Experience supporting cyber incident analysis, reporting, or coordination.

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