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Soc Analyst Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... 2027 Internship Program (Starts May 2027). As a Cybersecurity Analyst Intern, you will join our ... As a member of our cybersecurity team, you will be embedded directly with SOC analysts, learning ...

... 2027 Internship Program (Starts May 2027). As aCybersecurity Analyst Intern, you will join ... As a member of our cybersecurity team, you will be embedded directly with SOC analysts, learning ...

Soc Analyst Internship information

What is a SOC Analyst internship?

A SOC Analyst Internship is a temporary, entry-level position where individuals gain hands-on experience working in a Security Operations Center (SOC). Interns support full-time analysts by monitoring networks, identifying potential security threats, and assisting in incident response. This internship provides exposure to cybersecurity tools and techniques, helping interns develop practical skills and an understanding of how organizations protect their digital assets. It's an excellent opportunity for those interested in a cybersecurity career to learn from professionals and build their resume.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a SOC Analyst intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a SOC Analyst Intern, you need foundational knowledge of cybersecurity concepts, networking, and incident response, often supported by coursework or certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with SIEM tools (like Splunk or QRadar), intrusion detection systems, and security ticketing platforms is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help interns excel in identifying and escalating threats. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure robust monitoring, timely response to security incidents, and collaboration within the security operations team.

What are some common challenges faced during a SOC Analyst internship, and how can I prepare for them?

As a SOC Analyst Intern, you may encounter challenges such as quickly learning to identify and respond to security incidents, managing a high volume of alerts, and adapting to fast-paced shifts. Collaborating with experienced analysts and continuously improving your familiarity with security tools like SIEM platforms will help you build confidence. Proactively seeking feedback and participating in team briefings can also enhance your learning and integration into the security operations team.

What is the difference between Soc Analyst Internship vs Security Analyst?

AspectSoc Analyst InternshipSecurity Analyst
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate, some certifications like CompTIA Security+ beneficialOften requires certifications like CISSP, CISA, or Security+
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, training-focused, entry-level tasksFull-time professional role, responsible for security monitoring and incident response
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in cybersecurity firms, IT departments, government agenciesEstablished organizations across various industries, including finance, healthcare, and tech

The Soc Analyst Internship is an entry-level, training-focused position designed for students or recent graduates gaining experience in security operations. In contrast, a Security Analyst is a full-time professional responsible for ongoing security monitoring, threat detection, and incident management. While both roles require foundational cybersecurity knowledge, the internship offers learning opportunities, whereas the security analyst role involves independent decision-making and operational duties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Soc Analyst jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Soc Analyst jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Soc Analyst Internship jobs in Virginia?

For Soc Analyst Internship jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Soc Analyst Internship jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Soc Analyst Internship jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Soc Analyst Internship jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Soc Analyst Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Soc Analyst Internship job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Internship, and 75% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution.

Cybersecurity Analyst Intern

Alexandria, VA • On-site


Leidos
IT Services • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 499 rated business services

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$48K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Leidos, a leading defense, intelligence, and technology company, is seeking motivated and aspiring cybersecurity students for our Summer 2027 Internship Program (Starts May 2027). As a Cybersecurity Analyst Intern, you will join our Digital Sector on the Global Solutions Management - Operations II (GSM-O II) contract at the Mark Center in Alexandria, VA. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a real Security Operations Center (SOC), contributing to the defense of the Defense Information System Network (DISN) in support of the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA).
Your Opportunity:
Are you ready to move beyond the classroom and hunt for real-world threats? As a member of our cybersecurity team, you will be embedded directly with SOC analysts, learning how to use enterprise-grade tools to detect and analyze compromises on a global network. You will contribute directly to the security of vital communication networks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, gaining hands-on experience in cyber operations that truly matters.
What You'll Do (Potential Projects & Learning Opportunities):
  • Learn to utilize alerts from endpoints, IDS/IPS, NetFlow, and custom sensors to identify compromises on customer networks.
  • Perform junior-level review of massive log files, pivot between data sets, and correlate evidence for incident investigations.
  • Assist senior-level SOC personnel by passing triaged alerts and helping to identify malicious actors.
  • Practice documenting analysis, findings, and actions in a case management system.
  • Support the creation and distribution of incident reports to customers and higher headquarters.

What You'll Bring (Required):
  • Citizenship & Clearance: Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain a DoD Secret security clearance or higher.
  • Education: Currently pursuing a degree in a relevant field such as Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or Information Technology.
  • Technical Foundation: A basic understanding of TCP/IP, common networking ports and protocols, traffic flow, system administration, the OSI model, and defense-in-depth principles.
  • Analytical Mindset: A motivated self-starter with strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Teamwork: A collaborative attitude with strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Location: This internship is based on-site at the Mark Center in Alexandria, VA. All work must be performed on site - no teleworking opportunities.

What We Want (Desired):
  • Certifications: Obtaining a CompTIA Security+ certification (or any certification that aligns with DoD 8570 IAT Level II) before the start date is strongly encouraged.
  • Hands-On Experience: Prior experience working in a SOC environment or a Computer Incident Response organization is strongly preferred. Experience from home labs, CTF competitions, or class projects is also highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with:
    • Cybersecurity and Incident Handling concepts (e.g., MITRE AT&CK framework).
    • Performing data analysis and using pivot tables to identify trends.
    • Willingness to perform shift work, including potential weekend hours.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
August 26, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $48,100.00 - $86,950.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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What Leidos employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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