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Federal Cybersecurity Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MartinFed

Lead Cyber Security Engineer

Arlington, VA

The ideal candidate will serve as a senior technical authority, leading cybersecurity initiatives across complex environments while ensuring compliance with federal security requirements, industry ...

Cherokee Federal

Cyber Security Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $155K/yr

This role works closely with MARAD program offices, Information System Owners, and ISSMs to manage security documentation, assess risk, support compliance with federal and maritime cybersecurity ...

TestPros

Cybersecurity Program Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$160K - $230K/yr

Federal Government and Commercial clients within the continental USA. TestPros is dedicated to ... The Program Manager provides leadership across cybersecurity operations, risk management ...

Rapid Strategy

Cybersecurity Specialist

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Position Summary The Cybersecurity Specialist will play a critical role in evaluating, managing ... This position requires extensive experience in federal government and financial services ...

Rapid Strategy

Cybersecurity Specialist

Charlotte, NC

$65 - $75/hr

Position Summary The Cybersecurity Specialist will play a critical role in evaluating, managing ... This position requires extensive experience in federal government and financial services ...

Mayvin, Inc

Cybersecurity Engineer

Friendship, MD

The Cybersecurity Engineer provides technical expertise in securing, monitoring, and maintaining information systems in alignment with federal cybersecurity standards and agency policies. The ...

Mayvin

Cybersecurity Engineer

Friendship, MD · On-site

$120K - $270K/yr

The Cybersecurity Engineer provides technical expertise in securing, monitoring, and maintaining information systems in alignment with federal cybersecurity standards and agency policies. The ...

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All JobsFederal Cybersecurity Jobs

Federal Cybersecurity information

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$57K

$133K

$186K

How much do federal cybersecurity jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal cybersecurity 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.

Can you make $500,000 a year in cyber security?

Federal cybersecurity professionals can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially at senior levels, in leadership roles, or with specialized skills such as penetration testing or security architecture. Achieving this income typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications like CISSP or CISA, and often involves working in high-demand environments or consulting roles. Such salaries are more common in senior management, executive positions, or highly specialized consulting contexts rather than entry-level roles.

What is the difference between Federal Cybersecurity vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectFederal CybersecurityCybersecurity Analyst
Required CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, federal facilitiesPrivate companies, organizations, government
Employer & Industry UsageFederal government, defense, intelligenceVarious industries including finance, tech, healthcare
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Federal Cybersecurity professionals focus on protecting government systems and data within federal agencies, often requiring security clearances. Cybersecurity Analysts work across multiple industries, analyzing security threats and implementing defenses in private and public sectors. While both roles require similar certifications and skills, their work environments and employer types differ significantly.

How much does federal cyber security pay?

Federal cybersecurity professionals typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Entry-level positions may start lower, while senior roles with specialized skills and certifications can pay significantly more.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Federal Cybersecurity, and why are they important?

To excel in Federal Cybersecurity, you need a strong understanding of information security principles, risk management, and federal compliance frameworks, usually supported by a relevant degree and security clearances. Familiarity with tools like SIEM systems, vulnerability scanners, and certifications such as CISSP or Security+ are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential to safeguard sensitive government data, ensure regulatory compliance, and respond effectively to evolving cyber threats.

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Federal cybersecurity professionals, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as cybersecurity managers or senior analysts, can earn $200,000 or more annually, often with experience, advanced certifications like CISSP, and working in high-demand environments. Entry-level positions typically have lower salaries, but with experience and skill development, reaching high compensation is possible.

What is federal cybersecurity?

Federal cybersecurity refers to the practices, policies, and technologies used by government agencies in the United States to protect their digital systems and sensitive information from cyber threats. This includes defending against unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyberattacks targeting federal networks and critical infrastructure. Professionals in this field work to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of government data and services, often collaborating with other agencies and private sector partners. Federal cybersecurity is vital for national security, public trust, and the effective operation of government services.

Can you work for the government in cyber security?

Yes, individuals can work for the government in cybersecurity roles such as cybersecurity analysts, engineers, or specialists. These positions often require security clearances, relevant certifications like CISSP or Security+, and adherence to government security protocols and policies.

What Are Federal Cyber Security Jobs?

Federal cyber security jobs involve providing cyber security services for the United States government or a government agency. Your responsibilities vary depending on the area in which you work. As a federal cyber security analyst, you assess current security systems, define risk levels and threats, and suggest improvements to cyber security systems. A cyber security consultant offers assessments and suggestions about how to counteract cyber crime and how to respond to a data breach or system hack. A federal cyber security program manager creates strategies and systems to protect government sites and data assets and implements these programs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Federal Cybersecurity roles?

Federal Cybersecurity professionals often encounter challenges such as staying ahead of rapidly evolving cyber threats, complying with strict government regulations, and managing complex legacy systems. They must also coordinate with multiple agencies and stakeholders to ensure cohesive security strategies, which requires strong communication and collaboration skills. Additionally, balancing security needs with user accessibility and maintaining awareness of the latest federal cybersecurity frameworks are essential aspects of the role.
More about Federal Cybersecurity jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Cybersecurity jobs? Cities with the most Federal Cybersecurity job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Cybersecurity jobs? The most popular types of Federal Cybersecurity jobs are:
What states have the most Federal Cybersecurity jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Cybersecurity jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Federal Cybersecurity jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Cybersecurity jobs are:
Federal Cybersecurity jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Cybersecurity job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,962 per year, or $63.9 per hour.
Lead Cyber Security Engineer

Lead Cyber Security Engineer

MartinFed

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Founded in 2007 in Huntsville, AL, MartinFed provides the U.S. government with customer-focused, performance-based solutions using technology and an empowered workforce as an engine to drive its customers' missions. Our goal is to attract the best and brightest within their field.

We invest in our people because they are our greatest asset. They cultivate our purpose, embody and reflect our core values, and define our culture. MartinFed's core values that set us apart are the following:

  • Be Driven - We are fueled by the hunger to learn more and do more.
  • Be Curious - We engage in continuous improvement - never accepting the status quo.
  • Be Humble - We seek honest feedback to strengthen our relationships.
  • Pursue Excellence - We strive to achieve extraordinary results and do not settle for mediocrity.

Strive for excellence and consider joining our growing team today!

Please note: this position is contingent upon contract award.

JOB OVERVIEW:

MartinFed is seeking a highly experienced Lead Cyber Security Engineer to provide technical leadership in the design, implementation, assessment, and continuous improvement of enterprise cybersecurity programs and secure system architectures. The ideal candidate will serve as a senior technical authority, leading cybersecurity initiatives across complex environments while ensuring compliance with federal security requirements, industry best practices, and emerging threat mitigation strategies.

This role requires a hands-on cybersecurity professional with extensive experience in security engineering, vulnerability management, risk assessment, incident response, and secure systems design. The Lead Cyber Security Engineer will mentor technical teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and drive cybersecurity strategy to protect critical systems and data.

  • Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise cybersecurity solutions and security architectures.
  • Provide technical leadership for security engineering initiatives across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments.
  • Conduct security assessments, vulnerability analyses, penetration testing reviews, and risk evaluations.
  • Develop and implement cybersecurity strategies, policies, standards, and procedures aligned with organizational objectives.
  • Lead incident response activities, forensic investigations, and remediation efforts for security events.
  • Evaluate emerging cybersecurity threats and recommend proactive mitigation strategies.
  • Support security accreditation and authorization efforts, including compliance with NIST, RMF, FISMA, and other federal cybersecurity frameworks.
  • Architect and implement secure network, system, and application security controls.
  • Oversee vulnerability management programs, including scanning, analysis, remediation, and reporting.
  • Collaborate with software developers, system engineers, and IT personnel to integrate security throughout the system development lifecycle (SDLC).
  • Mentor junior cybersecurity professionals and provide technical guidance across cybersecurity projects.
  • Develop executive-level reports and briefings on cybersecurity risks, incidents, and security posture.
  • Support audits, assessments, and regulatory compliance activities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • United States Citizen with a DoD Secret clearance.
  • Master's Degree in Computer Science or a closely related technical field.
  • Certifications such as: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification or similar.
  • Minimum of 10 years of hands-on cybersecurity engineering experience.
  • Demonstrated experience designing and implementing enterprise cybersecurity solutions.
  • Extensive knowledge of cybersecurity principles, methodologies, and best practices.
  • Experience with vulnerability assessment tools, security monitoring technologies, and threat detection platforms.
  • Strong understanding of network security, system hardening, identity and access management, and security architecture.
  • Experience supporting federal cybersecurity frameworks and standards, including:
    • NIST 800 Series
    • Risk Management Framework (RMF)
    • FISMA
    • Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs)
  • Experience leading cybersecurity projects and technical teams.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

  • Inside office environment.
  • Working on a computer for long periods of time.
  • May involve long period of sitting at a desk.
  • The work environment is fast-paced and sometimes involves extreme deadline pressures.

OTHER DUTIES

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

MartinFed is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, religious creed, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, protected Veteran Status, genetics or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state or local law. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. In addition to federal law requirements, MartinFed complies with all applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in all locations.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access MartinFed's current openings as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by calling 855.212.1810. Thank you for your interest in MartinFed.


Please Note: All positions at MartinFed are contingent upon passing a background check prior to a start date and are subject to random drug screenings during the employment period. In addition, MartinFed is an E-Verify employer.

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