Cybersecurity SME

Prescient Edge • Virginia Beach, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Prescient Edge is seeking a Cybersecurity Subject Matter Expert to support a federal government client and protect the networks, systems, and data supporting U.S. Navy unmanned systems operations. The role secures connections among unmanned surface vessels, ground control stations, operating picture systems, and partner organizations, and helps ensure new capabilities are fielded securely.

Working alongside the Mission Integration team, the SME provides defensive cyber expertise and network engineering knowledge. The position leads security monitoring, threat analysis, incident response, and secure network design, and advises government customers on cyber risk and mitigation. Work is primarily on-site at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story. Flexible hours are allowed, although most work is on-site. Field events may involve extended hours, on-water operations, and expeditionary conditions.

Requirements

• Active SECRET clearance; TS/SCI is preferred.
• At least 8 years of cybersecurity experience, including security operations, incident response, digital forensics, or threat hunting.
• Hands-on experience with SIEM and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools.
• Working knowledge of network engineering fundamentals, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, firewalls, and VPNs.
• Experience with network traffic and packet analysis.
• Experience investigating and responding to incidents across Windows and Linux environments.
• Familiarity with the MITRE ATT&CK framework and adversary TTPs.
• Strong technical writing and briefing skills for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to lead tasks independently and coordinate across government and contractor teams.
• Active DoD 8140/8570-compliant certification, such as CompTIA Security+.
• Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related technical field is preferred; relevant military or industry experience may substitute for a degree.
• Ability to lift 40+ lbs during equipment staging.
• Ability to embark vessels for at-sea operations.
• Ability to work outdoors in maritime environments.

Nice To Haves

• Military experience, preferably with the U.S. Navy, USCG, Marine Corps, or SOCOM.
• Experience with network security monitoring tools such as Zeek, Suricata, Wireshark, or Splunk.
• Experience with malware analysis and reverse engineering, such as Ghidra.
• Scripting experience in Python, PowerShell, or Bash for security automation.
• Experience with cloud security and investigations in Azure, Azure Government, or AWS, and with Zero Trust concepts.
• Experience securing network devices such as Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, or Peplink.
• Experience securing operational technology, tactical, or air-gapped environments.
• Familiarity with unmanned systems, tactical communications, or maritime operations.
• Experience with RMF, STIGs, and system authorization processes.
• Experience with AI-assisted analysis and security automation.
• Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, CySA+, GIAC (GCIH, GCFA, GREM), or CISSP.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain monitoring of program networks and systems; identify unusual activity, unauthorized devices, and potential threats; and develop detection approaches tailored to the operational environment.
• Lead investigation and response to security events, including evidence collection, scope and root-cause analysis, and mitigation recommendations across Windows and Linux systems.
• Analyze threat activity, malware, and adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures using frameworks such as MITRE ATT&CK; assess risks to unmanned systems, communications links, and vendor equipment.
• Support the design, configuration, and hardening of tactical and site networks, including routers, firewalls, VPNs, satellite and cellular links, and mesh radios; validate that data flows only where intended.
• Evaluate vendor hardware and software for security risks, including unexpected outbound communications, and recommend safeguards before systems are fielded.
• Support DoD cybersecurity requirements, including Risk Management Framework activities, security documentation, and authorization support.
• Develop scripts and tools to automate evidence collection, monitoring, and repeatable security tasks.
• Develop security playbooks, SOPs, and technical guides; brief findings, risks, and recommendations to technical and leadership audiences.
• Coordinate with government customers, partner organizations, and industry on cyber threats, information sharing, and secure connectivity.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, vision, dental, and orthodontia coverage.
• Substantial retirement plan with no vesting schedule.
• Career development opportunities, including on-the-job training, tuition reimbursement, and networking.
• Positive work environment where employees are respected, supported, and engaged.

What This Job Offers

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