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Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian Jobs

Argo Cyber Systems

Cyber Systems Engineer II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Cyber Systems Engineer II Location: Arlington, VA (On-Site) Citizenship: US only Clearance: Active ... We combine technical precision with operational agility-helping federal partners identify, contain ...

Argo Cyber Systems

Cyber Systems Engineer II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Cyber Systems Engineer II Location: Arlington, VA (On-Site) Citizenship: US only Clearance: Active ... We combine technical precision with operational agility-helping federal partners identify, contain ...

U.S. Army

Cyber Operations Specialist (ARMY)

Boston, MA · On-site

$40K/yr

Surveillance and reconnaissance actions on specified systems and networks. * Conduct network ... FUTURE CIVILIAN CAREERS * The skills you will learn as a Cyber Operations Specialist will help ...

U.S. Army

Cyber Operations Specialist (ARMY)

Bangor, ME · On-site

$40K/yr

Surveillance and reconnaissance actions on specified systems and networks. * Conduct network ... FUTURE CIVILIAN CAREERS * The skills you will learn as a Cyber Operations Specialist will help ...

U.S. Army

Cyber Operations Specialist (Army)

Lowell, MA · On-site

$40K/yr

Surveillance and reconnaissance actions on specified systems and networks. * Conduct network ... FUTURE CIVILIAN CAREERS: * The skills you will learn as a Cyber Operations Specialist will help ...

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Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian information

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How much do freelance cyber systems operations civilian jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance cyber systems operations civilian in the United States is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is SOC an entry-level job?

A Cyber Systems Operations role within a Security Operations Center (SOC) is not typically entry-level; it often requires some prior experience or technical knowledge in cybersecurity, network administration, or related fields. Entry-level positions may be available for those with relevant certifications like CompTIA Security+ or basic understanding of security tools and protocols.

Is 30 too late for cyber security?

For a Freelance Cyber Systems Operations civilian, starting a career in cybersecurity at age 30 is feasible, as the field values skills, certifications, and experience over age. Many professionals transition into cybersecurity later in life, leveraging prior technical or analytical backgrounds. Continuous learning and obtaining certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP can enhance job prospects regardless of age.

How much do cyber systems operations make?

Cyber systems operations specialists typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with security clearances or advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially in government or defense sectors.

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

Freelance cyber systems operations civilians can potentially earn high incomes, but making $500,000 annually is uncommon and typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications, and a strong client base. Most cybersecurity professionals earn between $70,000 and $150,000 per year, with top experts or consultants earning higher amounts through advanced expertise and strategic contracts.

What is the difference between Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectFreelance Cyber Systems Operations CivilianCybersecurity Analyst
CredentialsCertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP often preferredCertifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH common
Work EnvironmentIndependent, contract-based, often remote or client sitesFull-time, corporate or government offices, or remote
Employer & IndustryClients across various industries, government, private sectorOrganizations with dedicated security teams, private and public sectors
Search & Comparison IntentYes, often compared for cybersecurity rolesYes, related to cybersecurity roles

The main difference is that Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian professionals work independently on various client projects, focusing on system operations and maintenance. Cybersecurity Analysts are typically employed full-time within organizations, focusing on protecting systems from threats. Both roles require similar certifications and skills, but their work environments and employment structures differ.

What cities are hiring for Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cyber Systems Operations Civilian jobs? The most popular types of Cyber Systems Operations Civilian jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian jobs include:
Freelance Cyber Systems Operations Civilian jobs near you
Host Based Cyber Systems Analyst III

Host Based Cyber Systems Analyst III

Argo Cyber Systems

Arlington, VA • On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Host-Based Systems Analyst III (HBA03) - Full Performance
Location: Onsite / Remote (as required for mission)
Clearance: Active TS/SCI with DHS EOD eligibility
Company: Argo Cyber Systems, LLC - Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
About Argo Cyber Systems
Argo Cyber Systems supports the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Hunt and Incident Response Team (HIRT) in protecting the Nation's cyber and communications infrastructure. Our mission-driven analysts provide rapid onsite and remote response, advanced forensics, and proactive threat-hunting capabilities across federal civilian networks and high-value assets.
As part of the HIRT mission, Argo personnel deliver advanced technical assistance, incident containment, and forensic expertise to mitigate intrusions, restore operations, and strengthen national cyber resilience.
Position Overview
Argo Cyber Systems is seeking an experienced Host-Based Systems Analyst III (HBA03) to support DHS HIRT's national incident response and digital forensics operations. The successful candidate will lead and execute host-level forensic analysis, malware triage, and investigative reporting in response to advanced cyber threats targeting critical government systems.
This role combines hands-on technical expertise with mission-critical communication and coordination responsibilities - directly supporting DHS leadership and federal stakeholders during high-impact incidents.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and coordinate forensic investigations in support of incident response engagements and post-compromise assessments.
  • Plan, direct, and execute the collection, examination, and analysis of host-based evidence across multiple operating systems and environments.
  • Acquire, preserve, and analyze digital artifacts (malware, volatile memory, registry data, user activity, logs, and executables) to support attribution and root-cause analysis.
  • Perform forensic triage to determine incident scope, urgency, and potential impact on enterprise operations.
  • Correlate host-level findings with network telemetry to reconstruct intrusion narratives and identify persistence or lateral movement.
  • Evaluate and dissect malicious code and executable behavior to identify tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
  • Maintain strict chain of custody and documentation standards to ensure evidence integrity.
  • Distill technical analysis into clear, actionable reports and executive summaries suitable for senior leadership and interagency partners.
  • Serve as a technical liaison to government stakeholders, explaining forensic methodologies, tools, and findings in both technical and operational terms.
  • Support the development of Computer Network Defense (CND) guidance, playbooks, and after-action reports based on investigative outcomes.
Required Qualifications
  • U.S. Citizenship (required)
  • Active TS/SCI clearance (required)
  • Ability to obtain DHS Entry on Duty (EOD) Suitability
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience conducting host-based or digital forensic investigations
  • Expertise in forensically sound data acquisition, duplication, and preservation
  • Proficiency in analyzing, categorizing, and reporting cyber attacks and system compromises
  • Strong knowledge of evidence handling procedures, documentation, and chain-of-custody standards
  • Familiarity with attack lifecycle phases and common adversary techniques
  • Comprehensive understanding of system and application security threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation strategies
  • Experience performing host triage, live response, and volatile memory analysis
  • Proficiency with Windows, Linux/Unix, and related file systems
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate across distributed teams in time-sensitive operational environments
Desired Qualifications
  • Proficiency with two or more of the following forensic and analysis tools:
    • EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, SIFT, Volatility, Sleuth Kit/Autopsy
    • Wireshark, Splunk, Snort, or EDR tools (CrowdStrike, Carbon Black, SentinelOne)
  • Experience conducting malware reverse-engineering and all-source research
  • Understanding of threat actor TTPs and advanced intrusion methodologies
  • Strong communication skills for technical briefings and interagency coordination
Education
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, or a related field
    or
  • High School Diploma with 7-9 years of host or digital forensics experience
Preferred Certifications
  • GCFA, GCFE, GCIH, EnCE, CCE, CFCE, CISSP, or equivalent
Why Join Argo Cyber Systems
Argo Cyber Systems empowers federal partners to outpace and outmaneuver adversaries through precision forensics, agile response, and mission-first cybersecurity operations. As part of the DHS HIRT mission, you will be on the front lines of national cyber defense-supporting the investigation, containment, and recovery of the nation's most critical systems.

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