Digital Network Exploitation Analyst - Mid to Experienced Level (Maryland)

Fort George G. Meade Complex, MD – GG pay plan, grades 11/1 to 14/10. Open from 2026-08-10 to 2026-08-23.

About the role

As a Digital Network Exploitation Analyst at NSA, you will use your computer science skills to analyze and exploit foreign adversaries' digital networks and communications. You will play a critical role in NSA's cybersecurity and intelligence operations by providing an understanding of the threat landscape and identifying vulnerabilities within these networks.

For more information, visit this video overview.

Please upload a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended prior to applying. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at this stage. The minimum qualifications require a specific degree demonstrating a concentration of courses in foundational Computer Science (CS) areas as well as mathematics.

Responsibilities

• Perform discovery and target technology analysis of digital networks and mobile communications.
• Conduct analysis of metadata.
• Conduct target analysis and research.
• Identify target communications within the global network.
• Perform global network analysis and mapping.
• Use knowledge of customer requirements to analyze and process intelligence information.
• Perform exploitation and operations on target networks.

Qualifications

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.

• Degree: Must be in Computer Science (CS). Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics, Information Technology or Systems, Cybersecurity, Information Assurance or Security, Networking and Telecommunications) may be considered if the program includes a concentration of courses in:
  • Algorithms
  • Computer architecture or network architecture
  • Data structures
  • Logic and computation
  • Mathematics (e.g., algebra, calculus, or discrete mathematics)
• Relevant experience: Must be in computer or information systems design/development/analysis. May also include:
  • Engineering hardware and/or software
  • Programming
  • Computer/network security
  • Vulnerability analysis
  • Penetration testing
  • Computer forensics
  • Information assurance
  • Cybersecurity
  • Systems engineering
  • Network and system administration
• Completion of military training in a relevant area (e.g., 24-week JCAC course) may count toward experience (e.g., 6 months for JCAC).

Full Performance

• Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or
• Master’s degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or
• Doctoral degree and no experience.
• Associate’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth, clearly related experience.

Senior

• Bachelor’s degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or
• Master’s degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or
• Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.
• Associate’s degree plus 8 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth, clearly related experience.

Skills

The ideal candidate has a desire for continual learning and strong problem-solving, analytic, and interpersonal skills, and is:

• Flexible
• Able to communicate effectively
• Able to collaborate with others

Specialized skills and experience in one or more of the following is desired:

• Knowledge of network protocols (especially TCP/IP, VOIP, wireless protocols)
• Understanding of internet, WAN, and LAN
• Vulnerability analysis
• Programming experience (preferably in C, C++, Java, Assembly, or Python)

Pay

Salary offers are based on education level, years of relevant experience, and work level for the position. Salary range varies by location and experience.

• Salary Range: $105,262 – $192,764 (Full Performance, Senior)

Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience.

Benefits

NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Schedule

This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, with a basic 8-hour/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).

If selected, you will serve a two-year DCIPS trial period (one year for veterans' preference-eligible employees). Continued employment after the trial period is contingent on performance, conduct, and whether your employment advances NSA’s organizational goals and the public interest.