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Principal Cyber Security Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Principal Cyber Security Analyst serves primarily as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) for cyber development efforts. This engineer has a strong understanding of the requirements capture ...

No As a Cyber Security Analyst Principal , the work you'll do at GDIT will be impactful to the mission of the office of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). You will play a crucial role in ...

No As a Cyber Security Analyst Principal , the work you'll do at GDIT will be impactful to the mission of the office of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). You will play a crucial role in ...

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Principal Cyber Security Analyst information

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$43K

$99.4K

$150K

How much do principal cyber security analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal cyber security analyst in the United States is $99,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Principal Cyber Security Analyst?

A Principal Cyber Security Analyst is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing and guiding an organization’s cybersecurity strategy and operations. They lead efforts to identify, assess, and mitigate cyber threats, as well as develop security policies and incident response plans. This role involves mentoring junior analysts, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with security standards and regulations. Principal Cyber Security Analysts often collaborate with IT teams and executive leadership to protect critical assets and infrastructure.

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

AspectPrincipal Cyber Security AnalystCyber Security Analyst
Certifications CISSP, CISM, CEHCompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP (preferred)
Work EnvironmentStrategic, leadership-focused, often in senior teamsOperational, technical, hands-on security tasks
ResponsibilitiesOversees security strategy, manages teams, develops policiesMonitors security systems, investigates incidents, implements controls

The Principal Cyber Security Analyst typically holds more senior certifications and focuses on strategic planning and leadership within cybersecurity teams. In contrast, the Cyber Security Analyst is more involved in day-to-day security operations and technical tasks. Both roles are essential in an organization's security framework, but they differ mainly in scope, responsibilities, and experience level.

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

Principal Cyber Security Analysts with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. However, such compensation is uncommon and typically requires a combination of technical expertise, management responsibilities, and strategic influence. Most cybersecurity professionals earn lower salaries, with top-tier roles in large organizations or consulting firms more likely to reach high compensation levels.

What does a principal security analyst do?

A principal security analyst leads cybersecurity efforts by developing security strategies, analyzing threats, and implementing protective measures. They often oversee security teams, conduct risk assessments, and utilize tools like intrusion detection systems, with certifications such as CISSP or CISM being common. Their role ensures the organization's information systems are secure against cyber threats.

What is the 80 20 rule in cyber security?

The 80/20 rule in cybersecurity suggests that approximately 80% of security issues are caused by 20% of vulnerabilities or threats. As a Principal Cyber Security Analyst, focusing on the most critical vulnerabilities and implementing prioritized controls can significantly improve an organization’s security posture.

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

To thrive as a Principal Cyber Security Analyst, you need extensive expertise in information security, risk management, and incident response, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in cybersecurity or a related field. Familiarity with SIEM tools, vulnerability assessment platforms, and certifications such as CISSP or CISM are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, leadership, and effective communication skills enable you to develop strategies and guide teams through complex security challenges. These competencies are critical for safeguarding organizational assets, leading security initiatives, and effectively mitigating cyber threats.

How much does a principal cyber security analyst make at Fidelity?

A principal cyber security analyst at Fidelity typically earns between $120,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. The role often requires advanced skills in security tools, threat analysis, and leadership responsibilities.

What types of projects and teams does a Principal Cyber Security Analyst typically collaborate with during their daily work?

A Principal Cyber Security Analyst often collaborates with cross-functional teams, including IT, network engineering, risk management, and compliance, to lead security initiatives and respond to potential threats. They may be involved in projects such as security architecture reviews, incident response planning, and vulnerability assessments. Daily responsibilities also include mentoring junior analysts and coordinating with external vendors or stakeholders to ensure comprehensive security coverage. This collaborative environment provides opportunities to influence security strategies and advance into leadership roles.
More about Principal Cyber Security Analyst jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Cyber Security Analyst jobs? Cities with the most Principal Cyber Security Analyst job openings:
What job categories do people searching Principal Cyber Security Analyst jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Cyber Security Analyst jobs are:
Infographic showing various Principal Cyber Security Analyst job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,400 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Principal Cyber Security Analyst

Berriehill Research

Pinehurst, NC

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Principal Cyber Security Analyst serves primarily as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) for cyber development efforts. This engineer has a strong understanding of the requirements capture process and the full lifecycle of technical cyber development initiatives. Execution of these responsibilities requires the ability to develop effective solutions by synthesizing mission strategy, industry standards, processes, emerging technologies, and creative approaches to achieve program objectives.
The successful candidate will join a multi-disciplinary, distributed team and will integrate existing products, industry-standard architectural methodologies, and emerging technologies to address complex IT and cyber challenges for our customers.

Principal Cyber Security Analyst Primary Responsibilities:
The Principal Cyber developer will provide cyber management services to government agencies related to threats in Cyberspace Operations. The role includes managing all technical aspects of cyber development projects using Agile software development methodologies, ensuring an effective balance between user requirements and technical constraints.

This position may also develop and deliver customized training and documentation for software products. Additionally, the role involves planning and facilitating exercises focused on Cyberspace Operations in support of military operations.

Principal Cyber Security Analyst Other Responsibilities:

  • Test and examine deliverables, software, or network enabled devices
  • Collaborate on maintenance and feature development of proprietary software
  • Attend meetings and make recommendations regarding development
  • Provide technical oversite of projects to identify risks and offer ways to mitigate risks
  • Provide recommendations on industry, security and development processes and procedures
  • Advise on the development and requirements of supporting test articles and development exemplars
  • Review testing of ongoing development efforts to ensure tests meet standards
  • Provide guidance to and assist training of less experienced staff members

Principal Cyber Security Analyst Requirements:

  • Must have a Top Secret clearance and be eligible for SCI eligibility (TS/SCI)
  • Minimum of 12 years experience with a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or related field, OR 20 years of equivalent experience
  • Completion of a U.S. Government Cyberspace Operations course or equivalent commercial training (e.g., GIAC GPEN, GXPN, or GRTP) with demonstrated hands-on experience
  • Experience leading or providing technical oversight for complex cyber or IT development efforts
  • Experience with Windows, Linux, and core networking concepts (e.g., protocols, switching, routing, VPNs)

Principal Cyber Security Analyst Preferences:

  • 7 to 10 years experience supporting cyber operations or mission-focused environments (e.g., SOCs, fusion centers)
  • Experience with scripting or object-oriented programming for cybersecurity or automation
  • Understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and best practices (e.g., NIST, MITRE ATT&CK, Zero Trust)
  • Experience delivering technical briefings and demonstrations to senior leaders and large technical audiences
  • Experience with system integration, architecture, or interoperability of cyber capabilities
  • Familiarity with cyber test and evaluation, including test articles and development exemplars
  • Experience supporting cyber exercises or training events
  • Knowledge of containerization, virtualization, or cloud environments
  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Experience applying Agile development methodologies

Who is ARA? 

Do you want to work for a purpose? Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company. We have been providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences since 1979. ARA has over 2,223 employee-owners and continues to grow rapidly. Together, our offices throughout the U.S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. 

ARA also prides itself, on having a challenging culture where innovation & experimentation are the norm. The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. Employee ownership ensures you have a voice in what happens in the company. 

To find out more about what the Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance Division has to offer, visit our website at: https://www.ara.com/benefits/