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Defensive Cyber Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 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 ...

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 ...

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

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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 5, 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 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 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:

Cyber Security Associate

Govcio LLC

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


GovCIO rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

112th of 203 rated it services


Job description

Overview:

GovCIO is currently hiring for a Cybersecurity Engineer to design, develop, and implement realistic cyber scenarios for use in military campaign simulations and academic training environments at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA). This role requires both technical expertise in cybersecurity operations and creativity to translate real-world cyber threats into interactive, scenario-driven learning content. The ideal candidate will work closely with military educators, simulation developers, and subject-matter experts to produce immersive, accurate, and adaptable cyber training modules that support wargaming, red/blue team exercises, and operational planning in academic and defense-related environments. This position will be located in Colorado Springs, CO and will be an onsite position.

Responsibilities:

Cyber Capability Development

  • Develop and implement realistic cyberattack and defense capabilities for use in training environments and military exercises.
  • Engineer adversary emulation infrastructure, scripted attack workflows, and technical exercise injects.
  • Create custom tooling, automation, and lightweight applications to support cyber training objectives.
  • Prototype and integrate new cybersecurity technologies, platforms, and operational concepts into existing range environments.

Scenario Engineering & Exercise Development

  • Translate real-world cyber threats, malware behaviors, and offensive techniques into technically accurate training scenarios.
  • Develop hands-on technical content supporting malware analysis, penetration testing, network defense, and incident response exercises.
  • Build realistic vulnerable environments, attack paths, and operational objectives for student and faculty exercises.
  • Support exercise execution through technical integration, adversary operations, and post-event analysis.

Automation & Technical Integration

  • Develop scripts and automation workflows using Python, PowerShell, Bash, or similar languages to support cyber range operations and training activities.
  • Integrate cybersecurity tools, logging systems, monitoring platforms, and APIs into training environments.
  • Assist with development of custom scoring, telemetry, orchestration, or exercise-control capabilities.

Collaboration & Technical Support

  • Work closely with faculty, system administrators, and technical staff to support cybersecurity education and operational training objectives.
  • Provide technical support during exercises and assist with troubleshooting cyber training environments.
  • Document technical implementations, exercise procedures, and operational workflows.
  • Assist with testing and evaluating emerging cybersecurity tools and technologies for instructional use.
Qualifications:

Required Skills and Experience

High School with 6-9 years of experience

  • Clearance required: None
  • Position requires U.S. Citizenship due to the nature of the role. 
  •  equivalent practical experience may be substituted for Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related technical field
  • 6-9 years of hands-on experience in cybersecurity engineering, cyber operations, systems engineering, software development, or related technical fields.
  • Experience working with Windows and Linux systems in lab, enterprise, or cyber training environments.
    Experience developing scripts, automation, or lightweight tooling using Python, PowerShell, Bash, or similar languages.
  • Familiarity with virtualization and container technologies such as VMware, Proxmox, Hyper-V, Docker, or similar platforms.
  • Working knowledge of networking concepts including TCP/IP, routing, switching, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs, and firewalls.
  • Familiarity with offensive and defensive cybersecurity concepts including penetration testing, malware analysis, incident response, network defense, or adversary emulation.
  • Ability to independently troubleshoot and integrate technical systems, tools, and services within cyber training or operational environments.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to rapidly prototype or adapt technical solutions to support evolving training requirements.

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Experience supporting cyber ranges, capture-the-flag (CTF) environments, simulation platforms, research labs, or technical training environments.
  • Experience developing or integrating cybersecurity tooling, telemetry pipelines, scoring systems, or automation workflows.
  • Familiarity with frameworks such as MITRE ATT&CK, Cyber Kill Chain, or NIST cybersecurity guidance.
  • Experience with reverse engineering, malware analysis, exploit development, red teaming, or detection engineering.
  • Familiarity with Git, version control workflows, or collaborative software development practices.
  • Experience with SIEM, IDS/IPS, EDR, or network monitoring platforms.
  • Knowledge of virtualization networking, isolated lab design, or segmented training environments.
  • Security certifications such as Security+, CySA+, GCIH, GPEN, GCFA, OSCP, or equivalent technical certifications.
  • Interest in cybersecurity education, military operations, wargaming, or adversary simulation environments.

#NSS #DSG #MAVERICK #TMK #TM

Posted Salary Range: USD $110,000.00 - USD $120,000.00 /Yr.