Cyber Operator - Tool Test, Integration, and EvaluationSan Antonio, TexasJOB DESCRIPTION
X8 is seeking a highly capable Cyber Operator focused on operational test, evaluation, and integration of offensive cyber capabilities. This role supports the full lifecycle of cyber tools-from early testing and analysis through operator enablement and mission integration-ensuring that capabilities deployed into operational environments are reliable, secure, and mission-ready.You will bring hands-on operational experience from DoD or IC environments, applying real-world lessons learned to validate, document, and integrate OCO tools and techniques. Working closely with developers, operators, and mission planners, you will ensure cyber capabilities are usable, effective, and aligned with U.S. Cyber Command operational requirements.This role sits at the intersection of cyber operations, systems evaluation, and operator training, making it critical to both current mission success and future capability development.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Conduct static and dynamic software testing on offensive cyber tools to assess performance, reliability, and operational impact.
- Evaluate cyber capabilities through operational tests and evaluation, documenting effects on host systems, networks, and mission environments.
- Perform tool validation and backlog testing, ensuring tools meet operational and security requirements before deployment.
- Build and maintain virtual machines and virtual networks to support testing, evaluation, and training environments.
- Develop and configure template systems for operators to replicate, train, and execute within mission systems.
- Set up and manage operator training scenarios and Job Qualification Sheets (JQS) to support Title 10 and mission operator certification.
- Capture, analyze, and document network traffic generated by tools, including running traffic through intrusion detection and defensive systems.
- Perform forensic analysis to identify tool-generated artifacts, unknown files, and system modifications.
- Support tool integration by packaging, installing, and validating software within operational systems.
- Serve as a technical interface between developers and operators, providing feedback on usability, effectiveness, and mission alignment.
- Participate in TTP evaluation, operational planning support, and cyber capability lifecycle refinement.
- Ensure compliance with USCYBERCOM Operational Assessment (OA) processes and requirements.
- Track tool testing and development workflows using platforms such as JIRA.
WHAT REQUIRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING
- 7+ years of experience as a DoD or IC Cyber Operator (Red Team, CNO, CNE, or OCO).
- Graduate of RIOT, Forge, or Basic Operator Course (BOC), OR experience as a DoD Tool Champion or in TTP evaluation and operational planning.
- Experience conducting network traffic analysis and working with intrusion detection systems.
- Strong experience with Linux systems, including: System logs and log generation, Linux security products and detection mechanisms, Identifying, analyzing, and documenting security-relevant artifacts.
- Working knowledge of Windows environments, including: Windows Defender and antivirus products, Windows Firewall, Registry, and Event Logs, Forensic artifact collection and analysis.
- Demonstrated ability to configure and support secure system access (e.g., SSH).
- Hands-on experience with penetration testing suites and cyber exploitation frameworks (e.g., Kali Linux, Metasploit).
- Understanding of access control lists, local and domain accounts, and system permission models.
- Demonstrated programming or scripting ability in languages such as: Python, Bash/Shell, PowerShell, C/C++/C#/Perl/Java (or similar)
- Ability to review code and configurations for security, performance, and operational suitability.
- Strong documentation skills with the ability to track, report, and communicate findings clearly to technical and operational stakeholders.
WHAT DESIRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING - Certification from Offensive Security (OSCP, OSCE, OSWE, OSEE).
- Experience supporting Title 10 cyber operations or cyber forces modernization efforts.
MINIMUM CLEARANCE REQUIRED - Active TS/SCI CI Poly is required.
COMPENSATION - Salary Range: Starting at $165,000+ (Depending on Education and Experience)
- Bonus potential
- 401K Match - 10%
- Paid time off - 24 PTO Days, 13 Holidays
- Medical Benefits - 100% Employee, 80% Dependent, $1000 company paid HSA Contribution
