Cybersecurity Analyst

The Big Picture

Leidos is looking for a Penetration Tester in Huntsville, AL. This is a hands on role where you'll run live penetration tests for customers, dig deep into systems before testing them, and recommend specific fixes for the vulnerabilities you find. You'll work across multiple stages of the system development lifecycle, from early acquisition to post deployment. You'll also build tools for both stand alone and networked systems, and you'll deliver after action reports and development updates after every red team activity.

Your main goal is simple: make sure customer systems are survivable and resilient under attack.

What You'll Actually Do

• Perform live penetration tests for customers
• Conduct deep dive preparatory analysis for every system under test
• Recommend specific mitigation strategies for discovered vulnerabilities
• Test systems at multiple stages of the development and acquisition lifecycle
• Develop tools for use on stand alone and network connected systems
• Ensure survivability and resiliency of customer systems under test
• Deliver timely development updates and after action reports after each red team activity

What You Need to Have

• A Bachelor's degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field, plus 2+ years of experience in penetration testing, red teams, or a related security field. A Master's degree with some experience also works. We'll consider work experience in lieu of a degree.
• Solid knowledge of Linux (preferably Kali, Parrot, or similar distros) and Windows operating systems
• Experience with scripting languages like Bash or Python
• A background in computer security, including forensics and systems analysis
• Strong problem solving skills
• An active Secret clearance, and a willingness to get a TS/SCI clearance

What Would Help You Stand Out

• Prior training or experience in penetration testing, reverse engineering, or system analysis
• Strong communication skills for documenting and relaying findings to customers
• A solid grasp of TCP/IP network architecture
• Experience developing exploits using scripting languages like Bash or Python
• Experience with scanning and analysis tools like nmap, nikto, Tenable Nessus, and others
• Experience with exploitation tools like Metasploit, Cobalt Strike, and similar
• Completion of or work toward PenTest+, Security+, CySA+, CEH, OSCP, or a similar technical certification

Perks and Compensation

The pay range for this role is $69,550 to $125,725. That's a general guideline, and your actual offer will depend on factors like your responsibilities, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and internal equity. Leidos also offers a full benefits package that includes Paid Time Off, 11 paid holidays, a 401K with a 6% company match and immediate vesting, flexible schedules, a discounted stock purchase plan, technical upskilling, education and training support, and parental paid leave.

How to Apply

This posting went live on April 6, 2026, and will remain open for at least 3 days. Anticipated close date is no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date. If you're ready, send your application through the normal channels. Leidos will never ask you for payment during the application process, and they will never send you money before you do any work. All legitimate communication will come through official Leidos channels.