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Research Assistant Cybersecurity Jobs in Washington

Cybersecurity SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

... * Assist in the identification, development, and testing of automated cybersecurity capabilities ... Demonstrated experience working on or with major defense acquisitions or large R&D programs ...

Cybersecurity SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

... * Assist in the identification, development, and testing of automated cybersecurity capabilities ... Demonstrated experience working on or with major defense acquisitions or large R&D programs ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Assistant Cybersecurity information

What is a research assistant in cybersecurity?

A Research Assistant in Cybersecurity is a professional who supports research projects focused on protecting computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. Their responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, assisting with experiments, and helping to develop or test cybersecurity tools and solutions. They typically work under the supervision of senior researchers or faculty members in academic, government, or industry settings. Research Assistants in this field gain valuable hands-on experience with emerging technologies and security practices while contributing to advancements in cybersecurity research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research assistant in cybersecurity?

To thrive as a Research Assistant in Cybersecurity, you need a solid background in computer science, information security principles, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with security tools such as Wireshark, Metasploit, and programming languages like Python, as well as foundational certifications like CompTIA Security+, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication help you excel in research and teamwork. These skills are crucial for contributing to innovative security research, accurately analyzing threats, and clearly documenting findings in a rapidly evolving field.

What are some typical challenges faced by research assistants in cybersecurity roles?

Research Assistants in Cybersecurity often encounter challenges such as staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving threats and technologies, managing large datasets, and ensuring the ethical handling of sensitive information. They may also need to balance multiple projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including faculty, graduate students, and industry partners. Developing strong organizational and communication skills is key to overcoming these challenges and making meaningful contributions to research efforts.

What are popular job titles related to Research Assistant Cybersecurity jobs in Washington?

For Research Assistant Cybersecurity jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Research Assistant Cybersecurity jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Research Assistant Cybersecurity job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Assistant Cybersecurity job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Cyber Security Operations Jr Analyst

SPAHR SOLUTIONS GROUP LLC

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Collect and analyze network and host artifacts to characterize activity, determine root cause, and enable rapid remediation of cyber threats.

  • Perform initial cyber incident triage, determine scope and impact, and escalate incidents to Tier II analysts.

  • Manage and document cyber defense incidents from detection through escalation.


Job description

Our DoW CSSP operates 24x7x365 to defend the network. This role requires shift work, which means you will likely work nights, weekends, and federal holidays. You must be fully prepared and willing to commit to this schedule.
Schedule: 2200 – 0600, Tuesday - Saturday. May be requested to work evenings and weekends to meet program and contract needs.
Location: Onsite Ft Belvoir, VA 
Clearance requirement: Active DoD Top Secret- must be SCI eligible
Type of Environment: Office 
Amount of travel: 10%
 
The Cyber Security Specialist plays a critical role in protecting DTRA's enterprise network by providing 24/7 cybersecurity monitoring, threat detection, and incident response support. Working alongside Cybersecurity Service Provider (CSSP) analysts, engineers, and agency stakeholders, you will help identify emerging threats, assess risk, investigate security events, and support the defense of mission-critical systems.
This position is ideal for candidates who enjoy threat hunting, cybersecurity operations, incident response, and working in a fast-paced environment focused on protecting national security interests.
Key Responsibilities

  • Collect and analyze network and/or host artifacts from a variety of sources to include logs, system images and packet captures to characterize activity, determine root cause, operational impact, and to enable rapid remediation and/or mitigation of cyber threats within the Enterprise Network through the investigation process.
  • Perform initial cyber incident triage; to include determining initial scope, urgency, and potential impact; identifying the specific vulnerability; escalating incidents to Tier II analysts. 
  • Must be familiar with the DoDI 8530.01 (Cybersecurity Activities Support to DoD Information Network Operations).
  • Manage and document cyber defense incidents from initial detection through escalation.
  • In support of the DTRA J6C Cybersecurity Department, the Cyber Security Analyst will provide the required resources and expertise to support 24x7x365 cybersecurity monitoring and response across DTRA’s distributed network operations environment.
  • Working with the DTRA J6C, contractor CSSP analysts and engineers shall collaborate with various teams throughout the agency to process intelligence, determine threat, develop mitigations, monitor for attacks, and assess risk while providing cyber based Situational Awareness to agency leadership and stakeholders.
  • The Cyber Security Specialist will monitor computer network defense services in a manner that effectively safeguards the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of DTRA-supported network environments and Information Technology infrastructure.
  • The Cyber Security Specialist will provide the required resources and expertise to ensure compliance with DoD CSSP Evaluators Securing Metrics (ESM). In addition, the Cyber Security Specialist will provide support within the existing CSSP structure which includes four simultaneously running processes tooled to assist and defend the system subscriber. The Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for network threat monitoring across a variety of tools.
  • The analyst must also be proficient in conducting research on threats and adversaries across various open source and government database platforms. The ability to work effectively within a team is essential, as the analyst will be required to share and discuss information discovered during the research and monitoring process.
Qualifications
  • Must have Active DoD Top Secret clearance
  • IAT Level II certification and CSSP Analyst certification (Security+ CE or better, CEH or better)
  • Computing Environment certification desired (Windows Server 2022, Red Hat security, Splunk Power User etc.)
  • Experience with open-source research, analyzing network traffic, analyzing windows logs, experience with network and host-based security systems, experience with SIEMs, basic knowledge of network topography, intermediate understanding of network protocols, and through understanding of the OSI model.
  • Experience with Splunk and Trellix ESS (McAfee HBSS)
  • Minimum 1 year of cyber security analyst experience or 3 years of IT experience
Why Join Us?

This role offers the opportunity to directly support a mission-focused cybersecurity program protecting critical government systems. You'll work alongside experienced cybersecurity professionals, leverage advanced security tools, and play a key role in defending against evolving cyber threats.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • SANS GCIH or similar certification
  • Tanium Interact Module experience
  • Wireshark experience
  • Open source research experience
  • PowerShell and Bash use
  • 1 year experience working at a CSSP
  • Familiarity with CJCSM 6510.01B

 
 
SPAHR is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.