Cyber Security Watch Officer

Leidos Holding • $87K — $157K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Active DoD Secret clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI.
  • DoD 8570 IAT II or higher certification (Security+ CE or equivalent).
  • Bachelor's degree plus 3+ years of relevant experience; military experience may substitute for degree.
  • Demonstrated experience with CND in a Computer Incident Response organization.
  • Knowledge of network threat life cycles and Cyber Kill Chain methodologies.

Responsibilities

  • Support Joint Network Operation and Support Center operations.
  • Oversee network defense operations and process flow execution.
  • Maintain awareness of directives and prepare daily briefings.
  • Serve as a Defensive Cybersecurity SME during 24x7 operations.

Benefits

  • Exposure to high-profile Pentagon operations.
  • Varying shift opportunities provide flexible work arrangements.
  • Engagement in cutting-edge cyber defense technologies.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development within the DoD.
Full Job Description
Leidos' Digital Modernization sector is seeking a Cyber Security Watch Officer (CSWO) to join the GSM-O effort at the Pentagon.

Applicants must have a minimum Secret clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI and must be available for shift work (including weekends), which may vary based on program needs and manning levels. We support 24/7 operations and while shift assignments are usually static, they are based on both preference and contract requirements, so we ask our team members to remain flexible to potential shift modifications to meet minimum staffing requirements. All new hires will spend a brief ramp-up period on weekday day shift to start.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Support the Joint Network Operation and Support Center (JNOSC) Battle Captain and Cyber Center Security Chief with all cyber defense and network assurance issues.
  • Oversee all network defense operations, and be familiar with the operations process flow and execution.
  • Maintain awareness of all pertinent directives, orders, alerts, and messages; prepare and deliver daily situational awareness and operational update briefings.
  • Serve as Defensive Cybersecurity SME during 24x7 operations.


Required Clearance and Certifications:
  • Must have, at minimum, an active DoD Secret security clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI (active TS/SCI preferred)
  • Must have DoD 8570 IAT II or higher certification (Security+ CE or equivalent) prior to start.


Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of professional experience; additional military or relevant work experience may be considered lieu of a degree.
  • CND experience (Protect, Detect, Respond and Sustain) within a Computer Incident Response organization.
  • Demonstrated understanding of the life cycle of network threats, attacks, attack vectors and methods of exploitation with an understanding of intelligence driven defense and/or Cyber Kill Chain methodology.
  • Experience in a 24x7 environment.


About our Program:
Through the J6 Penetration Handling, Incident, System Health (PHISH) support services task order on the GSM-O contract, we provide IT products, services and solutions to the Pentagon and other DoD offices and agencies for them to meet mission and business requirements. Our CSWOs are principally engaged in the triage of events, cyber incident handling, network analysis and threat detection, trend analysis, metric development, vulnerability information dissemination, and the DoD Cyber Security Service Provider (CSSP) methodology.

Original Posting:
September 22, 2026

Pay Range:
Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

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At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

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For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

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Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

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Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

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Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

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