1

Junior Cyber Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Junior Cybersecurity Specialist supports the organization's cybersecurity program by implementing and maintaining security operations at both tactical and operational levels. This role helps ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Junior Cybersecurity Engineer to join their team on-site at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL . The Junior Cyber Engineer will be responsible for supporting ...

New

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Junior Cybersecurity Engineer to join their team on-site at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL . The Junior Cyber Engineer will be responsible for supporting ...

New

Provide guidance, knowledge sharing, and mentorship to junior cybersecurity staff. . Track emerging threats, trends, and vulnerabilities and recommend adjustments to improve security posture.

Security Operations Analyst, SOC Analyst, Information Security Analyst, Cyber Defense Analyst, IT Security Analyst, or Junior Cybersecurity Analyst. F&M Trust is an Equal Opportunity Employer ...

... junior cybersecurity engineers, contributing to team growth and capability building. Qualifications : Required : • 5+ years of direct experience in security assessments, vulnerability management ...

Supervise and mentor junior cybersecurity professionals as needed. * Ensure seamless communication and collaboration across programmatic functional teams. * Support the PMO by conducting programmatic ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Junior Cyber Security information

See salary details

$26K

$53.2K

$83K

How much do junior cyber security jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior cyber security in the United States is $53,230.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Junior Cyber Security vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectJunior Cyber SecurityCyber Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA SecurityCompTIA Security+, CISSP (entry-level roles)
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting security tasksMonitoring, analyzing security threats, incident response
Employer UsageInternships, entry-level positions in IT/security teamsMid-level security teams, IT departments

Junior Cyber Security roles are typically entry-level positions focusing on supporting security tasks and gaining experience. Cyber Security Analysts usually have more responsibilities, including monitoring security systems and analyzing threats. Both roles often require similar certifications but differ in experience level and scope of work.

Will AI replace cyber security?

As a Junior Cyber Security professional, AI is a tool that enhances security measures by automating threat detection and response, but it is unlikely to fully replace human analysts. Cybersecurity requires critical thinking, understanding of complex systems, and ethical judgment that AI cannot replicate entirely. Continuous learning and certifications like CompTIA Security+ are important to stay effective in the evolving field.

Is cybersecurity still worth it in 2026?

Cybersecurity remains a valuable career for junior cybersecurity professionals as organizations continue to prioritize data protection and threat mitigation. The field is expected to grow, requiring skills in network security, threat analysis, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are essential for long-term success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Cyber Security professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Cyber Security professional, you need a basic understanding of network security, risk assessment, and common cyber threats, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with security tools like firewalls, SIEM systems, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CEH are highly valued. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills help you quickly detect and respond to security incidents. These skills and qualifications are crucial for protecting organizational assets and ensuring robust defense against evolving cyber threats.

What are Junior Cyber Security professionals?

Junior Cyber Security professionals are entry-level specialists who help protect organizations from cyber threats and security breaches. They typically assist with monitoring networks, analyzing potential vulnerabilities, and responding to security incidents under the supervision of senior staff. Their role often involves learning on the job, staying updated with the latest security trends, and developing technical skills related to firewalls, anti-virus software, and network protocols. Junior Cyber Security professionals play a crucial role in supporting an organization's overall cyber defense strategy.

Can I make $200 a year in cyber security?

A Junior Cyber Security role typically offers an annual salary well above $200, as entry-level positions often start at several tens of thousands of dollars per year. Earning only $200 annually would be highly unlikely and not representative of standard compensation in the field, which often requires skills in security tools, certifications, and ongoing training.

How do I get a job in cyber security with no experience?

To start a career as a junior cyber security professional with no experience, focus on gaining foundational knowledge through online courses, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco's CCNA Security, and hands-on practice with tools such as Wireshark or Kali Linux. Internships, volunteering, or entry-level IT roles can also provide relevant experience and help build a professional network.

What are some common challenges a Junior Cyber Security professional might face in their first year on the job?

Junior Cyber Security professionals often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving threats, balancing multiple tasks like monitoring alerts and responding to incidents, and learning to use a variety of security tools and platforms effectively. They may also need to quickly adapt to established protocols and workflows while collaborating with more experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and seeking mentorship within the team can help overcome these challenges and accelerate professional growth.
More about Junior Cyber Security jobs
What cities are hiring for Junior Cyber Security jobs? Cities with the most Junior Cyber Security job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cyber Security jobs? The most popular types of Cyber Security jobs are:
What states have the most Junior Cyber Security jobs? States with the most job openings for Junior Cyber Security jobs include:
Infographic showing various Junior Cyber Security job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,230 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Cybersecurity Specialist - Junior

Cybersecurity Specialist - Junior

Leidos

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.
If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!
The Intel Security Sector delivers technology-enabled services and mission software capabilities for defense and intel customers in the areas of cyber, logistics, security operations, and decision analytics.
Your greatest work is ahead!
Job Description
This position will be located at one of our customer sites in Bethesda, MD; Reston, VA; or Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, DC.
Leidos has an exciting opportunity for a Junior Cybersecurity Specialist in our Intel Security Sector's Analysis Solutions Business Area. The Junior Cybersecurity Specialist supports the organization's cybersecurity program by implementing and maintaining security operations at both tactical and operational levels. This role helps ensure that security controls are operating effectively across key areas including security logging, monitoring, alert management, incident response, vulnerability management, and configuration management.
The analyst will work closely with multidisciplinary teams-including Information Systems Security Engineers (ISSEs), Information Systems Security Managers (ISSMs), software developers, and systems engineers -to strengthen the security posture of mission systems. Throughout the DevSecOps lifecycle, the candidate will assist in developing, implementing, and maintaining robust security strategies that protect mission-critical systems, data, and infrastructure while ensuring compliance with organizational and federal cybersecurity requirements.
Are you ready for your next career challenge? Join a team committed to a Mission!
Responsibilities Include:
  • Support the secure architecture, design, and implementation of DoD systems in accordance with DoDI 8510.01, NIST SP 800-53, and other DoD security guidance.
  • Lead the integration of RMF activities into the system development lifecycle (SDLC), including selecting, implementing, and validating security controls.
  • Develop and maintain key security documentation such as System Security Plans (SSPs), Security Assessment Reports (SARs), Risk Assessments, and Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms).
  • Collaborate with ISSOs, ISSMs, developers, and system owners to ensure systems are developed and maintained with approved security configurations.
  • Apply Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) to systems and validate compliance using tools such as SCAP, STIG Viewer, and ACAS.
  • Apply security patching.
  • Maintain application, network, and database scanning infrastructure (application/product updates, database maintenance, benchmark/audit files, application/server builds, rule pack/content updates, scanner, or agent deployment etc.)
  • Analyze vulnerability scans and ensure timely mitigation or acceptance of risks based on DoD policies.
  • Provide technical input to support and maintain system authorization.
  • Participate in system reviews, architecture assessments, and engineering design reviews to embed cybersecurity from the outset.
  • Develop and implement automation or security tools to improve the compliance and monitoring of systems.
  • Support security incident response and forensics analysis in coordination with ISSMs and Security points of contact.

Clearance Requirements:
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI with Polygraph.

Required Experience, Skills, and Education:
  • Bachelors degree and less than 2 years of experience. Entry-level Cybersecurity experience including internships. Additional years of experience in lie of degree are accepted.
  • Experience with reviewing cybersecurity vulnerabilities for risk and relevance as well as in vulnerability mitigations/remediation planning, for identified systems, network, application and database vulnerabilities and applying security patching.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI with Polygraph.
  • Due to the nature of the government contracts we support, US Citizenship is required.
  • Understanding of Microsoft Windows and/or Linux/UNIX operating systems.
  • Experience with middleware / web technologies (Apache, tomcat, IIS, etc.)
  • Experience with Databases (Postgres, MS SQL, MySQL, ElasticSearch, etc.)
  • Understanding of TCP/IP networking.
  • Experience with Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery Platforms (Jenkins, Bamboo, GitlabCI TFS, etc.)
  • Familiar with NIST 800-171, 800-172, NIST SSDF, and CMMC requirements.
  • Experience supporting DoD/IC systems through the entire Risk Management Framework Plus (RMF) process.
  • Experience with System Security Engineering management processes to integrate security and privacy controls into complex hardware and software systems
  • Experience developing and reviewing security concept of operations, systems security plans, security risk assessments, contingency plans, configuration management plans.
  • Experience with incident response plans, plan of actions and milestones, risk management plans, and vulnerability management plans.
  • Strong communication skills; able to successfully communicate with management personnel, technical personnel and third parties.

Preferred Experience, Skills, and Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related technical discipline. An additional 4 years of experience may be substituted in lieu of degree.
  • Three years of experience in the field with at least a portion of the experience within the last two years.
  • Software development/coding experience with programming languages such as Python, Java, and React
  • Successfully achieved ATO under RMF+
  • Experience with big data applications
  • Experience with tools for ticketing and documentation (e.g., Gitlab, Jira, Confluence).
  • Experience working in an Agile environment
  • Experience with OIDC or Oauth2

At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that provide them with an opportunity to thrive professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business. We're excited to learn more about you.
#EWOKS
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
April 30, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $57,850.00 - $104,575.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

What Leidos employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Leidos logo

About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

Social media