ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Open Source Research Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SOSi

Open Source Intelligence Investigator

Reston, VA · On-site

$48K - $48K/yr

Conduct online research using industry best practices for misattribution techniques, with a strong ... Leverage open-source collection techniques to provide reports. * Write protective intelligence ...

SOSi

Open Source Intelligence Investigator

Reston, VA · On-site

$48K - $48K/yr

Conduct online research using industry best practices for misattribution techniques, with a strong ... Leverage open-source collection techniques to provide reports. * Write protective intelligence ...

Chenega MIOS

Senior Research Analyst

Washington, DC

$131K - $131K/yr

The Senior Research Analyst will provide expertise in open-source media monitoring and analysis, provide qualitative and quantitative analyses of open-source research findings, consolidate and assess ...

Chenega MIOS

Senior Research Analyst

Washington, DC

$131K - $131K/yr

TheSenior Research Analyst will provide expertise in open-source media monitoring and analysis, provide qualitative and quantitative analyses of open-source research findings, consolidate and assess ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOpen Source Research JobsOpen Source Research Jobs in Reston, VA

Open Source Research information

What is an Open Source Research job?

An Open Source Research job involves gathering, analyzing, and interpreting publicly available data to support decision-making, investigations, or intelligence efforts. This can include examining online publications, social media, government records, and other freely accessible sources. Professionals in this field may work in cybersecurity, journalism, law enforcement, or corporate intelligence. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of digital tools are essential for success in this role.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by professionals in Open Source Research roles?

Professionals in open source research often encounter challenges such as verifying the authenticity and credibility of information found online, managing large volumes of data, and keeping up with rapidly evolving digital tools and platforms. They may need to navigate language barriers, misinformation, and changing privacy regulations depending on the geographic focus of their research. The work can require a careful balance between thorough investigation and timely reporting. To succeed, researchers often collaborate with analysts, subject matter experts, and cross-functional teams to ensure findings are actionable and reliable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Open Source Research position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Open Source Research, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in research methodologies, typically supported by a degree in international relations, intelligence studies, or a related field. Familiarity with research databases, online investigative tools, and sometimes certifications like OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) training are valuable. Effective communication, critical thinking, and perseverance are essential soft skills to excel in this field. These skills ensure accurate collection, assessment, and presentation of publicly available information for informed decision-making.

What job categories do people searching Open Source Research jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Open Source Research jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Open Source Research jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Open Source Research job openings:
Open Source Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Open Source Research job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 69% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, and 28% Remote job distribution.
Open Source Research Monitor II

Open Source Research Monitor II

Agile Defense

Arlington, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

About Agile Defense
 
At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. That's why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next.
 
Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agility-leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nation's vital interests.

Requisition #: 1615
Job Title: Open Source Research Monitor II
Location: Arlington, VA
Clearance Level: Secret, Must Have Clearance to Start
 
Job Description
Overview:
 
Agile Defense is looking for an Open Source Monitoring Specialist to support a federal law enforcement client's Open Source Intelligence Program focused on detecting threats to specific people, locations, and events. As an Open Source Monitoring Specialist, you will use Boolean logic, automated search tools, and other research skills to find potential threats in social media, news sites, forums, and other sources. The threats you find will be used by security and law enforcement personnel worldwide to increase the safety of specific people, locations, and events. Shift work will be required (6am-6:15pm, 4 shifts on/4 shifts off).
 
 
Responsibilities/Duties:
  • Conduct open source monitoring, research, and support to overseas personnel, domestic investigative offices, protection details, and external consumers.
  • Quickly, clearly, and concisely communicate potential threats and other relevant information
  • Utilize specialized tools, and advanced search techniques to identify potential threats
  • Use ad-hoc Program guidance in the creation of Boolean or other query-language algorithms used in commercial and unclassified tools.
  • Review incoming open source information to assess the accuracy, credibility, validity, and relevance of known media sources
  • Prepare preliminary referrals to other law enforcement, protection, or intelligence groups
  • Provide technical advice and guidance in the planning and execution of open source collection operations
  • Support large-scale, multi-national events domestically and abroad (as available and if desired)
  • Assist training teams in the development of training modules
Education and Years of Experience
 
  • Bachelor's Degree and at least 4 year of relevant experience or at least 7 years of relevant experience without a degree. Relevant experience includes any positions that required advanced online research or other investigative techniques.
Required Skills
  • Strong ability to communicate effectively and succinctly, both verbally and in writing
  • Ability to write clearly and concisely
  • Ability to clearly summarize information in writing
  • Knowledge of internet-based research, including Boolean logic
  • Knowledge of machine language translation methods
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new software
  • Ability to establish liaison and interact effectively with individuals at all levels
Preferred Skills
  • Knowledge of popular and fringe social media platforms
  • Completed Open Source Intelligence or advanced internet research training course
Working Conditions
  • Typical Office Environment
Our Core Values
 
Employees of Agile Defense are our number one priority, and the importance we place on our culture here is fundamental. Our culture is alive and evolving, but it always stays true to its roots. Here, you are valued as a family member, and we believe that we can accomplish great things together. Agile Defense has been highly successful in the past few years due to our employees and the culture we create together. 
 
What makes us Agile? We call it the 6Hs, the values that define our culture and guide everything we do. Together, these values infuse vibrancy, integrity, and a tireless work ethic into advancing the most important national security and critical civilian missions. It's how we show up every day. It's who we are.
 
  • Happy - Be Infectious. Happiness multiplies and creates a positive and connected environment where motivation and satisfaction have an outsized effect on everything we do.
  • Helpful - Be Supportive. Being helpful is the foundation of teamwork, resulting in a supportive atmosphere where collaboration flourishes, and collective success is celebrated.
  • Honest - Be Trustworthy. Honesty serves as our compass, ensuring transparent communication and ethical conduct, essential to who we are and the complex domains we support.
  • Humble - Be Grounded. Success is not achieved alone, humility ensures a culture of mutual respect, encouraging open communication, and a willingness to learn from one another and take on any task.
  • Hungry - Be Eager. Our hunger for excellence drives an insatiable appetite for innovation and continuous improvement, propelling us forward in the face of new and unprecedented challenges.
  • Hustle - Be Driven. Hustle is reflected in our relentless work ethic, where we are each committed to going above and beyond to advance the mission and achieve success.
 
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply