Cybersecurity Intern

Leidos • The Pentagon, VA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Leidos is seeking a motivated Cybersecurity Intern to support its Air Force National Capital Region (AFNCR) IT Services team and the Global Command and Control System (GCCS), the Department of Defense’s platform for joint battle management and situational awareness. The role provides hands-on exposure to mission-critical servers, client workstations, and secure networks in an enterprise military environment. The intern will work alongside project managers, cybersecurity experts, and defense engineers supporting senior defense leaders and national-level command functions.

The internship offers mentorship from senior systems administrators and network engineers, enterprise DoD experience, an opportunity to obtain and use a federal security clearance, and practical familiarity with DoD 8140 compliance, cybersecurity skills, and modern device management. The work is based in the National Capital Region, at the Pentagon, Joint Base Andrews, or Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, during core business hours. The internship is 10–12 weeks, with a target start in early June 2027. Both full-time and part-time schedules are mentioned.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university pursuing a degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Computer Engineering, or a related field; rising juniors, seniors, or master’s-level students are considered.
• U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain an active DoD Secret security clearance.
• Basic understanding of computer networks, including IP addresses, ports, and protocols.
• Awareness of general cybersecurity concepts, including malware, threats, and vulnerabilities.
• Ability to follow documented processes and pay attention to detail.
• Familiarity with Linux, Unix, and Windows operating systems.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of web application security.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and risk management methodologies.
• Familiarity with corrective action management and auditing principles.
• Demonstrated understanding of TCP/IP, common networking ports and protocols, system administration, and common security elements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams.
• Organizational ability, attention to detail, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Coursework or certifications in cybersecurity, IT, or computer science.
• Experience with or exposure to security tools such as SIEM, endpoint protection, or vulnerability scanners.
• Foundational scripting knowledge in Python, PowerShell, or Bash.
• Understanding of security frameworks.
• Prior internship or experience in IT, engineering, defense, or customer-support environments.
• Knowledge of U.S. Department of Defense directives, policies, and procedures pertaining to sensitive information.

Responsibilities

• Monitor incoming security alerts and perform initial investigation steps.
• Gather logs, data, and context to support senior analysts during investigations.
• Assist with running and reviewing vulnerability scans.
• Track remediation progress and update documentation.
• Support user access reviews, identity audits, and permission cleanups.
• Document standard operating procedures, incidents, and security findings.
• Research emerging threats and prepare brief summaries.
• Participate in team meetings, security projects, and tool onboarding efforts.
• Assist with implementing process improvements or automation ideas.
• Support cybersecurity awareness initiatives or training activities.

Benefits

• Daily mentorship from senior systems administrators and network engineers.
• Real-world enterprise exposure supporting high-profile DoD environments.
• Opportunity to obtain and utilize a federal security clearance.
• Practical familiarity with DoD 8140 compliance, cybersecurity skills, and modern device management.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern