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Entry Level Government Cyber Security Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Government Cyber Security information

What is an entry level government cyber security?

An entry level government cyber security job is a position focused on protecting government computer systems and sensitive data from cyber threats such as hacking, malware, and unauthorized access. These roles typically involve monitoring networks, assisting with incident response, and following established protocols to maintain security. Entry level positions are designed for individuals with foundational knowledge in IT or cyber security, often requiring a relevant degree or certifications. These jobs provide hands-on experience and training to help employees advance in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level government cyber security professional?

To excel in an Entry Level Government Cyber Security role, a strong understanding of computer networks, security protocols, and foundational IT knowledge—often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field—is essential. Familiarity with security tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and the ability to communicate effectively help professionals identify and mitigate risks while collaborating with team members. These skills are crucial for protecting sensitive government data and ensuring the resilience of critical information systems.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level government cyber security professionals?

Entry-level government cyber security professionals often face the challenge of quickly adapting to strict security protocols and compliance requirements unique to public sector environments. Navigating the bureaucracy and understanding the chain of command can also be complex, as projects frequently involve multiple departments and approval layers. Additionally, staying current with rapidly evolving threats and technologies while handling routine monitoring and reporting responsibilities can be demanding. However, these challenges offer valuable exposure to a wide range of security tools and procedures, providing a strong foundation for career growth within government agencies.

What is the difference between Entry Level Government Cyber Security vs Entry Level Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Government Cyber SecurityEntry Level Cyber Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level), Security+CompTIA Security+, CEH, Security+
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, federal, state, or local government officesPrivate companies, consulting firms, or corporate IT departments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily government sectors with strict compliance standardsBroad industry use including finance, healthcare, and tech
Job FocusProtecting government systems, compliance, and policy adherenceIdentifying vulnerabilities, monitoring networks, incident response

While both roles involve cybersecurity fundamentals, Entry Level Government Cyber Security focuses on protecting government systems and ensuring compliance within public sector environments. Entry Level Cyber Security Analyst roles are more common in private sectors, emphasizing vulnerability assessment and incident response. Understanding these differences helps candidates target their skills and certifications appropriately.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Government Cyber Security jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Government Cyber Security jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Government Cyber Security jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Government Cyber Security job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Government Cyber Security job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Secure Systems Engineer 1 (Onsite)

Raytheon Technologies

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-08-18
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-107 ~ 400 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 107
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Security Clearance Type:
DoD Clearance: Secret
Security Clearance Status:
Active and existing security clearance required on day 1
Are you ready to explore the world of aerospace and defense? Do you want to learn from and collaborate with some of the greatest minds in the industry? At RTX, our internships, co-ops and full-time careers provide an exceptional foundation to work on complex problems, advance your skills and create a safer, more connected world. Discover opportunities to make a difference at RTX.
Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
The Embedded Product Cybersecurity Engineering team needs an additional entry level Secure Systems Engineer. The Cybersecurity Engineering team is a shared services team that supports the development of products throughout the Avionics Strategic Business Unit wherever the customer has security requirements, or the system is exposed to cyber threats by it's connectivity or operational use. We develop tools and testing techniques to highlight residual defects in product design or implementation. These defects can lead to vulnerabilities that negatively impact the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of a system. Members of the security engineering team pursue security excellence by embedding with the design and implementation teams as subject matter experts supporting our Secure System Development Life Cycle (SSDLC).
Supporting this Cyber Security Engineering team's mission involves: developing threat models and information flow architectures to ensure data can be properly isolated in motion and while at rest, implementing mandatory access controls (MAC) through the development of Security Enhanced Linux (SELinux) policies, developing and executing fuzzing and penetration tests to evaluate the robustness of the exposed attack surface, reviewing code to identify weaknesses in the implementation of security functions, and conducting vulnerabilities assessments of proposed and in-service systems.
You know who you are. You're an ethical hacker who operates outside the confines of 'shall' statements. You break things to fix them, and you possess the backbone to champion true security over an arbitrary KPI.
What You Will Do:
  • You will be developing and executing fuzzing and robustness tests to evaluate a products attack surface.
  • You will be conducting vulnerability assessments of proposed and in-service systems
  • Embedding with development teams to address product security concerns.
  • You will develop threat model/data flow diagrams to ensure data can be properly isolated in motion and at rest.
  • You will be assisting with implementing mandatory access controls (MAC) through the development of SELinux policies.
  • You will be assisting with creation of security documentation to support Airworthiness Certification.

Qualifications You Must Have:
  • Bachelor's degree in Cyber Engineering, Computer Engineering or related Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) major obtained by start date.
  • Experience with one or more of the following: C++, Python.

*Experience may be obtained through on-the-job experience, research, coursework, or projects.*
Qualifications We Prefer:
  • Experience with Linux OS.

What We Offer:
  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.
  • Relocation Eligibility

Learn More & Apply Now!
Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role.
Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 57,200 USD - 108,800 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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