Assessor Engineer Communications and Networking Protocols Specialist

Leidos Holdings Inc.•San Antonio, TX

75d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assessor Engineer provides advanced technical expertise in communications protocols, network architectures, cybersecurity defense, and vulnerability assessment for Air Force and Department of Defense systems. This role advises the Cybersecurity and Information Assurance (IA) team on protocol behaviors, emerging technologies, vulnerabilities, and countermeasures. The engineer performs research, evaluates network-based cyber threats, supports defensive cyber operations, and assists with the secure operation and maintenance of both classified and unclassified networks. This position directly supports cybersecurity assessments, continuous monitoring, and network security engineering that enhance the resiliency and mission effectiveness of NSIN systems and mission partners.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related discipline with 4-12+ years of experience.
(Experience may substitute for education depending on contract requirements.)
Requires an Active Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
3-5+ years of hands-on experience in network engineering, cybersecurity analysis, or protocol-level research.
Strong understanding of communications and networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, DHCP, TLS/SSL, BGP, OSPF, SNMP, VoIP, etc.).
Experience supporting network defense and cybersecurity operations.
Proficiency with network security tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump, Nmap, ACAS, Nessus).
Working knowledge of routing, switching, firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
Ability to analyze protocol vulnerabilities and recommend countermeasures.
Strong documentation and analytical skills with the ability to interpret technical data and cyber threat intelligence.
DoD 8570/8140 Baseline Certification: IAT-II (e.g., Security+, CCNA Security, GICSP, CySA+) or equivalent.

Nice To Haves

Experience in DoD/Air Force cybersecurity environments.
Knowledge of RMF security controls related to networking and boundary defense.
Hands-on experience with classified networks (SIPR, JWICS, or IL5/IL6 environments).
Familiarity with Zero Trust architecture and DoD cybersecurity modernization efforts.
Advanced certifications such as: CCNP/CCNP Security; CISSP; CEH; GSEC, GCIA, GNFA, GREM, or similar GIAC certifications.
Understanding of modern network technologies (SDN, VXLAN, cloud networking, automation frameworks).

Responsibilities

Review incoming technical requirements and provide expert analysis on communications and networking protocols, including:
Protocol behavior and vulnerabilities
Emerging protocol advancements
Secure applications and defensive measures
Conduct in-depth research into networking technologies to enhance cybersecurity and communications capabilities.
Advise Cybersecurity and IA teams on protocol-level weaknesses, exploitation methods, and mitigation strategies.
Perform vulnerability analysis and recommend countermeasures for protocol- and network-based cyber threats.
Conduct technical assessments to validate secure configurations of routers, switches, firewalls, and transport systems.
Evaluate cyber incidents related to protocol misuse, anomalous traffic, or intrusions, and support remediation efforts.
Develop technical recommendations to enhance network security posture and reduce mission risk.
Support integration of cybersecurity requirements into network and system engineering solutions.
Maintain technical documentation for configurations, changes, test results, and protocol-based risk assessments.