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Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level Jobs in Reston, VA

Qmulos

Splunk Engineer

Arlington, VA

C., Qmulos you'll work with industry trailblazers and global private-sector clients while using ... Keep pulse on cybersecurity trends, issues, and ideas * Find and propose emerging security ...

Qmulos

Splunk Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

C., Qmulos you'll work with industry trailblazers and global private-sector clients while using ... Keep pulse on cybersecurity trends, issues, and ideas * Find and propose emerging security ...

ServeFed

Accountant - Entry Level

Germantown, MD · On-site

Accountant US-MD-ServeFed Overview ServeFed is seeking a Full Time Entry Level Accountant in ... private sector companies more efficient and productive. We partner with our customers to bridge ...

Qmulos

Splunk Consultant

Arlington, VA · On-site

C., Qmulos you'll work with industry trailblazers and global private-sector clients while using ... Keep pulse on cybersecurity trends, issues, and ideas * Find and propose emerging security ...

Qmulos

Splunk Consultant

Arlington, VA

C., Qmulos you'll work with industry trailblazers and global private-sector clients while using ... Keep pulse on cybersecurity trends, issues, and ideas * Find and propose emerging security ...

Edera L3C

Management Consulting Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

We bring industry best practices from the private sector to government and from government to the ... cybersecurity workflow improvement, innovation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), patient experience ...

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Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level information

See Reston, VA salary details

$59.3K

$138.3K

$193.5K

How much do private sector cyber security entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for private sector cyber security entry level in Reston, VA is $138,328.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,500.00 and $156,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry-level private sector cyber security professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an entry-level private sector cyber security professional, you need foundational knowledge of information security principles, networking, and risk management, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like CompTIA Security+. Familiarity with security tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and SIEM platforms is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help you navigate threats and collaborate across teams. These competencies are crucial for effectively identifying vulnerabilities, mitigating risks, and supporting organizational security objectives.

Can I make $200 a year in cyber security?

A private sector entry-level cybersecurity position typically offers salaries well above $200 annually, with most roles starting at several tens of thousands of dollars per year. Entry-level roles often require foundational skills, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or basic knowledge of security tools, and a full-time schedule; earning only $200 annually would be highly unlikely in this field.

How can I get a job in cybersecurity with no experience?

Entry-level private sector cybersecurity jobs often require foundational knowledge of networks, operating systems, and security principles. Gaining certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco's CCNA, and building practical skills through online labs or internships, can improve your chances without prior work experience.

What is the difference between Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level vs Cyber Security Analyst?

AspectPrivate Sector Cyber Security Entry LevelCyber Security Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA Security, CEH (entry-level)Security+, CISSP (entry-level), CEH
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, tech companies, financial institutionsSecurity operations centers, IT departments, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate companies across various industriesOrganizations needing security monitoring and incident response

Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level roles focus on foundational security tasks within private companies, often requiring basic certifications and working in corporate environments. Cyber Security Analysts typically perform more advanced monitoring, analysis, and incident response, often with similar certifications but a higher level of responsibility. Both roles are essential in protecting organizational assets but differ mainly in scope and experience level.

What are private sector cyber security entry level jobs?

Private sector cyber security entry level jobs are positions at companies or organizations that focus on protecting digital assets from threats such as hacking, malware, and data breaches. These roles often include job titles like security analyst, IT security specialist, or security operations center (SOC) analyst. Entry-level employees help monitor network activity, investigate security incidents, and implement basic security measures. Most positions require knowledge of information technology, networking, and cybersecurity principles, with some employers seeking certifications like CompTIA Security+ or relevant degrees. These jobs offer valuable hands-on experience and are a common starting point for a career in cyber security.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in private sector cyber security roles?

Entry-level professionals in private sector cyber security often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving threats, understanding complex security protocols, and learning to use a variety of specialized tools. Balancing hands-on technical tasks with compliance documentation and reporting can also be demanding. Additionally, newcomers may need to quickly develop effective communication skills to collaborate with IT, management, and non-technical staff. Continuous learning and staying current with industry trends are essential for success and growth in these roles.

Is 25 too late for cyber security?

Private Sector Cyber Security entry-level roles are open to individuals of various ages, including those starting at 25 or older. Success depends on acquiring relevant skills, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, and gaining practical experience through training or internships, regardless of age.

Is 30 too late for cyber security?

Private sector cybersecurity entry-level roles are accessible to individuals of various ages, including those starting a career at 30 or later. Success depends on acquiring relevant skills, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, and gaining practical experience through training or internships. Age is generally not a barrier if you demonstrate technical competence and a commitment to learning.
What are popular job titles related to Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA? For Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level job openings:
Private Sector Cyber Security Entry Level jobs near you

IT Cybersecurity Specialist (Critical Infrastructure Protection) - Direct Hire

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$186K - $257K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Summary
This position is located in Division of Risk Management Supervision (RMS) and is responsible for developing and executing plans to identify the critical cyber and infrastructure vulnerabilities of the financial services industry's operations, including but not limited to incident response programs and execution during
emergency situations.
Additional selections may be made from this announcement to fill identical vacancies that arise later.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Plans and develops new and revised approaches pertaining to cybersecurity and critical infrastructure for the examination and supervision of insured institutions. Evaluates the design, implementation, and effectiveness of cybersecurity controls across IT networks, operating systems, databases, and applications.
  • Conducts technical assessments of cybersecurity defenses, intrusion detection systems, logging architectures, endpoint security platforms, identity and access management systems, and incident response tools used by financial institutions.
  • Translates complex IT security and systems information into policy and guidance for financial institutions, senior leadership, and interagency partners.
  • Coordinates with FFIEC agencies on cybersecurity and critical infrastructure - related issues pertaining to examination policy, training, information sharing, awareness and incident communication, and coordination.
  • Represents the FDIC and banking and finance sector in cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection meetings with representatives of various cabinet-level agencies or with private sector representatives.
  • Assesses cyber threat information and provides feedback to senior officials on the potential impact on the financial services sector and possible courses of action to mitigate or manage the threat.
  • Develops, maintains, tests, executes, and evaluates nationwide plans for ensuring RMS and FDIC disaster support and incident response to physical or cyber threats to the financial services industry.
  • Provides technical oversight for exercises involving failure of critical IT infrastructure such as core banking platforms, payment systems, telecom, cloud services, and data center operations.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Completion of Confidential Financial Disclosure is required.
  • Males born after 12/31/1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Access. Must be able to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to do so may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  • This position is subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
  • A probationary or trial period may be required.

Qualifications
Qualifying experience is credited from private and public sectors, including paid and unpaid service (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps). Volunteer service builds competencies that translate to paid work. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience. See OPM's General Schedule Qualification Standards for details.
CG-15: Applicants must complete one year of specialized experience equivalent to the CG-14 level or above in Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as:
  • Conducting cybersecurity assessments of individual and interconnected businesses within the financial services industry;
  • Maintaining, testing, and evaluating disaster support and incident responses to cyber threats to the financial services industry; AND
  • Analyzing cyber threat information and assisting in providing feedback on potential impacts and mitigations strategies to the financial services industry.

Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: Information Technology Management Series, 2210
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) eligible applicants must earn 80 or higher on the online assessment to be determined "well qualified." For information, see, FDIC CTAP/ICTAP.
Resume Content Required for Qualification Determinations
For each position on your resume, include:
  • Employer name;
  • Title;
  • Series and grade (federal jobs only);
  • Start and end dates (month/year);
  • Hours per week;
  • Relevant experience supporting your specialized experience responses.

Important: If your resume is missing these details, your application may be marked incomplete, and you might not be considered for this job.
Do not copy/paste duties or specialized experience from this announcement into your resume; that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications.
Education
There is no substitution of education for experience for this position.
Additional information
Refer to these links for more information: Job Applicant Rights and Responsibilities; Selective Service System; Employment Conditions.
Salary reflects a pay cap of $257,500.
After we select a candidate, we may share the remaining list of qualified candidates with other federal agencies. You can opt-in if you want us to share your name, application material and assessment results for similar jobs with other agencies. There is no guarantee of further consideration, and you can continue to explore and apply to other job announcements.
Reasonable Accommodation (RA) Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a RA in your online application. Requests for RA for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for RA must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for RA are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, based on your adjudication decision. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a RA, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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FDIC employees receive the standard Federal benefits and may be eligible for additional FDIC-specific benefits, at minimal cost.
Review our benefits

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