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Doctorate In Cybersecurity Jobs in Highland, IL (NOW HIRING)

Doctorate In Cybersecurity information

See Highland, IL salary details

$41.5K

$85.9K

$133.7K

How much do doctorate in cybersecurity jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for doctorate in cybersecurity in Highland, IL is $85,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,400.00 and $103,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a doctorate in cybersecurity?

A Doctorate in Cybersecurity is the highest academic degree focused on advanced research and leadership in information security. This program typically prepares graduates for roles in academia, government, and industry by equipping them with expertise in areas such as cyber defense, risk management, cryptography, and policy development. Students often conduct original research, contribute to scholarly publications, and address complex cybersecurity challenges. The degree may be offered as a PhD or a Doctor of Science (DSc) and usually requires several years of study beyond a master's degree.

What types of research or projects can I expect to work on during a doctorate in cybersecurity program?

During a Doctorate in Cybersecurity program, you will typically engage in advanced research projects that address emerging threats, develop innovative defense mechanisms, or enhance existing cybersecurity protocols. Common research areas include cryptography, network security, cyber-physical systems, privacy preservation, and threat intelligence. You may also collaborate with industry partners, government agencies, or interdisciplinary teams to solve real-world cybersecurity challenges. The program encourages independent inquiry, but you will also benefit from faculty mentorship and peer collaboration, helping you build a strong professional network.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a doctorate in cybersecurity, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Doctorate in Cybersecurity, you need advanced knowledge of information security principles, research methodologies, and a strong academic background, typically demonstrated by a PhD or equivalent degree. Expertise in technical tools such as penetration testing suites, security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and familiarity with certifications like CISSP or CISM is often expected. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set individuals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for leading innovative research, developing effective security strategies, and influencing policy in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

What is the difference between Doctorate In Cybersecurity vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectDoctorate In CybersecurityCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsDoctorate degree, specialized researchBachelor's or master's degree, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research, or advanced R&D rolesCorporate, government, or security operations centers
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, advanced cybersecurity rolesSecurity monitoring, threat analysis, incident response

While a Doctorate In Cybersecurity focuses on research, teaching, and advanced theoretical knowledge, a Cybersecurity Analyst applies practical skills to protect organizations from cyber threats. The doctorate prepares individuals for academic or high-level research roles, whereas analysts work directly in security operations.

Is a Doctorate in Cybersecurity worth it?

A Doctorate in Cybersecurity can enhance expertise and open opportunities in research, academia, and advanced cybersecurity roles. However, it requires significant time and investment, and many positions in the field value industry experience and certifications like CISSP or CISA alongside practical skills. Its worth depends on career goals and the specific demands of the desired job market.

What can I do with a Doctorate in Cybersecurity?

A Doctorate in Cybersecurity prepares individuals for advanced roles such as cybersecurity researcher, university professor, or senior security analyst. Graduates often engage in developing new security protocols, conducting research, or leading cybersecurity teams, and may pursue certifications like CISSP or CISA to enhance their qualifications.

What cities near Highland, IL are hiring for Doctorate In Cybersecurity jobs?

Cities near Highland, IL with the most Doctorate In Cybersecurity job openings:

Infographic showing various Doctorate In Cybersecurity job openings in Highland, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,877 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Network Software Engineer Lead

Isys Technologies

Scott Air Force Base, IL • On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Minimum Clearance RequiredSecretResponsibilities

I2X Technologies is a reputable technology services company to the Federal Government.  Whether the focus is on space exploration, national security, cyber security, or cutting-edge engineering applications, I2X is ready to offer you the chance to make a real-world impact in your field and for your country.  We provide long-term growth and development. Headquartered in Colorado, I2X is engaged in programs across the country and in more than 20 states.  Our programs support multiple Federal agencies, the Department of Defense and often focused on the space initiatives of our government customers.

I2X Technologies is seeking a Network Software Engineer Lead to support ongoing activities for a customer at Scott AFB, IL. This position will be on-site and will require an active Secret clearance. 

  • Lead the design, development, documentation, testing and release of software written in Python, XML, and other languages for use with the Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) platform.
  • Integrate software with network devices, including Cisco ASR9K and Juniper MX series routers.
  • Perform engineering tasks related to the design, implementation, and integration of network changes and sustainment of customer systems in a Wide Area Network environment.
  • Conduct planning and performance of analytical research, design development, and other tasks to align with customer specifications.
  • Ensure efficient delivery of contract capabilities using industry standards and repeatable processes.
  • Mitigate risks, control costs and schedule variance, and effectively manage large scale, integrated projects.
  • Direct and perform a variety of analytical tasks which include hardware and software design and implementation.
  • Proactively and independently identify, report, monitor, and mitigate technical risks. Provide guidance to lower-level engineers when they identify risks or issues.
  • Frequently communicate and collaborate with other team members and upper management to ensure successful completion of project objectives.
  • Mentor and act as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) resource for lower-level engineers.

Basic Qualifications-

  • Currently possess DoD 8750 certification at IAT level II, Security+ CE or equivalent to meet requirement.
  • Python software development experience that includes REST api development, as well as the parsing, generation and validation of JSON.
  • Experience with distributed version control software such as Git and Bitbucket.
  • Experience developing software on a Linux platform.
  • Experience troubleshooting and configuring IP networks using at least one of the following routing methods: BGP, ISIS, OSPF, and/or Static routing.
  • Experience with either service provider or enterprise IP networks using an interface on Cisco (ESR and ASR) and/or Juniper routers.
  • Strong communication skills that enable proactive and effective collaboration with a team.
  • Knowledge of and ability to apply principles, theories, and concepts of Software Engineering.
Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications-

  • Proficient in Juniper and Cisco configuration, troubleshooting, and design.
  • Experience with Cisco IOS XR, JUNOS, and Cisco IOS codes.
  • Network configuration experience, specifically with Juniper or Cisco routers, to include protocols such as BGP, MPLS, VPLS, Pseudowires and QoS.
  • Certifications with major network system vendors such as Cisco are a strong plus
  • Experience developing XML and/or object-oriented programming.
  • Experience developing software using SDN modeling languages and protocols such as YANG, NETCONF and RESTCONF.
  • Full software lifecycle experience (design, development, test, deployment), including deployment to a production environment.
  • Experience developing software including the ability to quickly learn new technologies.
  • Experience creating software design artifacts, including the creation of functional, technical, and architectural design documentation as well as test cases and installation, deployment and configuration documentation.
  • Software Defined Networking experience, particularly experience with Cisco NSO.
  • Possessing project, technical, interpersonal, presentation and problem management skills.

Required Education and Experience-

  • Requires BS degree and 8-12 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 6-10 years of prior relevant experience. May possess a Doctorate in technical domain.

Essential Requirements:

US Citizenship is required.

In compliance with Colorado's Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, the annual base salary range for this position is listed . Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. I2X Technologies considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and business considerations when extending an offer.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee will regularly sit, walk, stand and climb stairs and steps. May require walking long distance from parking to work station. Occasionally, movement that requires twisting at the neck and/or trunk more than the average person, squatting/ stooping/kneeling, reaching above the head, and forward motion will be required. The employee will continuously be required to repeat the same hand, arm, or finger motion many times. Manual and finger dexterity are essential to this position. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, depth perception and telling differences among colors. The employee must be able to communicate through speech with clients and public. Hearing requirements include conversation in both quiet and noisy environments. Lifting may require floor to waist, waist to shoulder, or shoulder to overhead movement of up to 20 pounds. This position demands tolerance for various levels of mental stress.

I2X Technologies is an Engineering and Information Technology Company focused on providing Services to the Federal and State Government. I2X offers a competitive compensation program and comprehensive benefits package to our employees.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME