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Incident Handler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Relevant certifications including GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), Certified Incident Response Handler (GCFA) or similar * Experience with using SIEM systems, network security tools, and log ...

Relevant certifications including GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), Certified Incident Response Handler (GCFA) or similar * Experience with using SIEM systems, network security tools, and log ...

Incident Response Team Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$155K - $180K/yr

GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst (GCIA), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH); GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA); SANS GIAC Certified Enterprise Defender (GCED) or Other Information Assurance ...

Manager, Incident Response

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$150K - $175K/yr

GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM), MCFE, EnCE, or equivalent certifications * Proven track record of complex ...

GCIH (GIAC Certified Incident Handler) * GCIA (GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst) * Cyber Mission Force analyst or operator experience * Management experience * Experience with DoD cybersecurity ...

GCIH (GIAC Certified Incident Handler) * GCIA (GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst) * Cyber Mission Force analyst or operator experience * Management experience * Experience with DoD cybersecurity ...

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Incident Handler information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do incident handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for incident handler in Virginia is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an incident handler?

Incident handlers are cybersecurity professionals responsible for managing and responding to security incidents within an organization. Their main duties include identifying, investigating, and mitigating cyber threats or breaches to minimize damage and recover normal operations. They also develop and implement incident response plans, analyze security alerts, and coordinate with other teams to ensure effective communication during incidents. Incident handlers play a crucial role in maintaining an organization’s security posture and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an incident handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Incident Handler, you need a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, risk assessment, and network protocols, often supported by a degree in computer science or related certifications like CEH or CISSP. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and forensic analysis software is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating responses and documenting incidents. These skills and qualities are vital to quickly mitigate threats, minimize damage, and maintain organizational security.

What are the most common challenges incident handlers face when responding to security incidents, and how can these be addressed in a team environment?

Incident Handlers often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving threats, incomplete information, and coordinating with multiple departments under time pressure. Effective communication and a well-defined incident response plan are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. In a team environment, regularly practicing incident simulations and debriefing after real events help ensure everyone understands their roles and can collaborate efficiently, ultimately reducing response times and improving outcomes.

What is the difference between Incident Handler vs Security Analyst?

AspectIncident HandlerSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, GIAC GCIHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, GIAC GSEC
Work EnvironmentResponds to security incidents, investigates breachesMonitors security systems, analyzes threats
Employer & Industry UsageCybersecurity teams in various industries, incident response firmsIT departments, security operations centers (SOCs)

Incident Handlers focus on responding to and managing security incidents, while Security Analysts primarily monitor, analyze, and prevent threats. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the same environments, but Incident Handlers are more reactive, dealing with incidents as they occur, whereas Security Analysts are proactive in threat detection and prevention.

What do incident handlers do?

Incident handlers are cybersecurity professionals responsible for identifying, analyzing, and responding to security incidents and breaches. They coordinate efforts to contain threats, investigate causes, and implement measures to prevent future incidents, often using tools like intrusion detection systems and forensic software. Their work helps organizations maintain security and compliance.

What are popular job titles related to Incident Handler jobs in Virginia?

For Incident Handler jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Incident Handler job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,702 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Cybersecurity Incident Response Analyst

MANTECH

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


ManTech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Cyber Incident Response Analyst to join our team in McLean, Virginia. Our team provides 24x7x365 cybersecurity support to one of the most coveted targets in the world. 

The Cyber Incident Response Analyst will work a 4-day work week; 10 hours per shift. Staff will be assigned to either Sun-Wed or Wed-Sat. The schedule is fixed and does not rotate. We have openings on 1st, 2nd and 3rd shifts. Shift differential applies to 2nd and 3rd shifts. Candidates must be able to train on day shift for 6 months.
 

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Incident Detection and Monitoring
  • Incident Analysis and Investigation
  • Incident Response and Mitigation
  • Threat Intelligence and Vulnerability Management
  • Reporting and Documentation
     

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma and 3+ years' experience in cyber security
  • 2+ years’ experience with incident response
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, incident detection, analysis, and response methodologies.
  • Knowledge of operating systems, network protocols, and security technologies
  • Knowledge of threat intelligence, vulnerability management, and security incident response best practices
  • Ability to obtain a DoD 8570 IAT-II certification within 6 months of hire
     

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in technical field
  • Relevant certifications including GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), Certified Incident Response Handler (GCFA) or similar
  • Experience with using SIEM systems, network security tools, and log analysis tools
  • Experience with MITRE ATT&CK framework
  • Experience with threat intelligence, vulnerability management, and security incident response
     

Clearance Requirements:

  • Current/active TS/SCI w/Polygraph is required
     

Physical Requirements:

  • The person in this position must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time

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