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: 2026-08-10, Close: 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 unofficial transcripts from all schools attended prior to applying. The minimum qualifications require a degree demonstrating a concentration of courses in foundational Computer Science and 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 minimum acceptable qualifications to be considered for the position are:
- 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. Additional relevant experience may 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
Full Performance Level
- Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or
- Master’s degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or
- Doctoral degree with no experience.
- Associate’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth, clearly related experience.
Senior Level
- 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, including:
- Flexibility
- Effective communication
- Collaboration with others
Specialized skills and experience in one or more of the following are 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 hiring manager input regarding work level. Salary range varies by location, work level, and experience.
- Full Performance to Senior Level: $105,262 – $192,764
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 an 8-hour workday 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 beyond the trial period depends on performance, conduct, and alignment with NSA’s organizational goals and efficiency of the Federal service.