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Opt Student Cybersecurity Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

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Opt Student Cybersecurity information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$41.9K

$127K

$186.1K

How much do opt student cybersecurity jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for opt student cybersecurity in Silver Spring, MD is $127,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,400.00 and $146,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an OPT student cybersecurity?

OPT Student Cybersecurity roles refer to positions in the cybersecurity field that are open to international students in the United States who are on Optional Practical Training (OPT) status. These roles allow students with a background in cybersecurity, computer science, or related fields to gain practical work experience in the industry after completing their studies. Typical responsibilities include monitoring networks for security breaches, assisting with incident response, and helping organizations protect their digital assets. OPT students often work as analysts, interns, or junior security specialists in companies looking to bolster their cybersecurity teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an OPT student in cybersecurity?

To thrive as an OPT Student in Cybersecurity, you need a solid understanding of network security, risk assessment, and foundational IT knowledge, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in identifying threats and collaborating with teams. These competencies are crucial for protecting organizational data, mitigating cyber risks, and ensuring compliance in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

What is the difference between Opt Student Cybersecurity vs Cybersecurity Analyst?

AspectOpt Student CybersecurityCybersecurity Analyst
Required CredentialsOften includes cybersecurity certifications, ongoing OPT authorizationTypically requires certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, with relevant degree
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level roles, often in tech companies or government agenciesFull-time position in IT or security teams across various industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by students on OPT seeking cybersecurity roles during their visa periodEmployed by organizations to monitor and protect information systems

Opt Student Cybersecurity roles are often internship or entry-level positions suitable for students on OPT, focusing on gaining practical experience. Cybersecurity Analysts are full-time professionals responsible for safeguarding systems, requiring more experience and certifications. Both roles share similar credentials but differ in scope and employment status.

What does an OPT student in cybersecurity do?

As an OPT student in a cybersecurity position, you will likely be involved in projects such as monitoring network activity for potential threats, assisting with vulnerability assessments, and responding to security incidents under supervision. You may help implement security protocols, review logs for suspicious activity, or contribute to security awareness initiatives. Collaboration with IT teams, senior analysts, and sometimes even legal or compliance departments is common, giving you exposure to different aspects of organizational security. These experiences offer valuable hands-on learning and can help you build a strong foundation for a future career in cybersecurity.
What are popular job titles related to Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Opt Student Cybersecurity job openings:
Opt Student Cybersecurity jobs near you
Infographic showing various Opt Student Cybersecurity job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,041 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Low-Voltage Security Intern

Dhaka Technologies Limited Company

Washington, DC

$18.40 - $19/hr

Internship

Posted 16 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

Location: Washington, DC / DMV Area
Position Type: Internship (Field-Based / On-Site)
Pay: $18.40 per hour
CPT/OPT: Candidates with valid CPT or OPT employment authorization are welcome to apply

About the Position

Dhaka Technologies Limited is seeking a motivated Low-Voltage Security Intern to support networking, structured cabling, security camera, access control, and other low-voltage projects throughout the Washington, DC and DMV area.

This hands-on, field-based internship is designed for students and entry-level candidates who want real-world experience with networking, wiring, security systems, and related technologies. You don't need years of professional experience — just a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic.

What you'll need:

  • Basic knowledge of computer networking
  • Basic knowledge of wiring and cabling
  • Willingness to work, learn, and perform hands-on tasks
  • Reliability and a strong work ethic
  • Your own car and reliable transportation (mandatory)

We're willing to train candidates who bring the right foundational knowledge, attitude, and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

Working alongside experienced team members, you'll assist with:

  • Running and installing low-voltage network and security cabling
  • Ethernet and structured network cabling
  • Cable termination, labeling, organization, and testing
  • Installing and supporting security cameras and CCTV systems
  • Assisting with access control systems
  • Connecting cameras, access control devices, and other equipment to network infrastructure
  • Assisting with routers, switches, patch panels, and network connections
  • Troubleshooting basic wiring, cabling, and connectivity issues
  • Mounting and installing low-voltage equipment
  • Organizing tools, cables, equipment, and installation materials
  • Supporting on-site installation and maintenance activities
  • Traveling between customer and project locations throughout the DC/DMV area
  • Performing other related hands-on technical duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
  • Basic understanding of computer networking
  • Familiarity with Ethernet, IP addressing, routers, switches, and network connectivity
  • Basic understanding of low-voltage wiring and structured cabling
  • Basic knowledge of Ethernet cables such as Cat5e, Cat6, or similar
  • Ability and willingness to learn cable termination and testing
  • Comfort working with basic hand tools
  • Willingness to perform physical, hands-on field work
  • Ability to follow instructions and work with senior team members
  • Dependability and punctuality
  • Strong willingness to learn
  • Ability to travel between project locations
  • Valid driver's license
  • Personal vehicle and reliable transportation (required)

Previous professional experience in low-voltage, networking, CCTV, or security systems is not required.

Preferred Areas of Study

Students or recent graduates in the following are encouraged to apply:

  • Information Technology
  • Computer Networking
  • Cybersecurity
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical or Electronics Technology
  • Telecommunications
  • Engineering
  • Information Systems
  • Related technical programs

Candidates from other educational backgrounds are also welcome if they have practical knowledge of networking and wiring.

CPT / OPT Candidates

Candidates authorized to work through CPT or OPT are welcome to apply. Applicants are responsible for maintaining valid employment authorization for the duration of the internship.

Compensation

$18.40 per hour — this is a paid internship.

What You Will Learn

This internship offers real-world, hands-on experience with:

  • Computer networking
  • Ethernet and IP networking
  • Structured cabling
  • Low-voltage wiring
  • Security cameras and CCTV
  • Access control systems
  • Network-connected security devices
  • Cable termination and testing
  • Field installation
  • Technical troubleshooting
  • Customer and project-site environments
Physical and Field Requirements

As a field-based role, candidates must be comfortable:

  • Traveling to different project locations
  • Working on-site at customer facilities
  • Carrying tools and installation materials
  • Performing hands-on cabling and installation work
  • Working in different indoor and outdoor project environments as required
  • Standing, walking, bending, and performing normal installation-related physical activity
Transportation Requirement

Having your own car is mandatory for this position. This role requires travel between project locations throughout Washington, DC and the surrounding DMV area. Candidates must have a valid driver's license, their own reliable vehicle, and the ability to travel to assigned job sites.

Who We're Looking For

We're not looking for someone who already knows everything. We're looking for someone who:

  • Understands the basics of networking
  • Knows the basics of wiring and cabling
  • Is comfortable working with their hands
  • Is willing to learn
  • Shows up on time
  • Is dependable
  • Has a positive attitude
  • Is willing to work
  • Has their own reliable car

If you have basic networking and wiring knowledge and want to build real-world experience in low-voltage security and networking systems, we encourage you to apply.

Send your resume to talent@dhakatech.us to gain hands-on experience in networking, cabling, security cameras, access control, and low-voltage technology with Dhaka Technologies Limited.