Cyber Test Engineer

Location: Herndon, VA

Department: 53969658 - AFS Quality Engineering

Job Description:  

As a Cyber Test Engineer, you will immerse yourself in the intricacies of testing and development, honing your skills in programming languages such as C/C++ and Python, as well as scripting with Bash. Your primary responsibility will be to conduct rigorous cyber tool testing to ensure the integrity and robustness of those capabilities.  You'll navigate complex virtual test environments using vSphere and ESXi, necessitating familiarity with VMware products. Your role will require a comprehensive understanding of networking protocols and the ability to manage complex storage solutions effectively.  Analyzing databases of results and reviewing log files will be a routine part of your job, as will updating the project notes, ensuring that all pertinent information is accurately documented and accessible. Your proficiency in GitLab, Jira, and Confluence will be vital as you write comprehensive reports and actively participate in meetings, clearly describing test setups and outcomes, and making well-considered recommendations for both tool and test environment enhancements. We are looking for someone who brings a strong understanding of successful cyber tool testing paired with an interest in innovating and improve upon our testing strategies and approach to support realistic real-world scenarios.

In this capacity, your daily workplace will be an AFS facility located in Herndon, VA, where you will operate on both unclassified and classified networks, supporting the testing of sophisticated cyber tools. As a vital member of our team, you will navigate a variety of tasks and coordinate with both subcontractors and clients. Your role will require you to provide weekly updates during status meetings with the government client in support of real world global cyber missions. The dynamic nature of the job calls for a flexible schedule, with the readiness to work weekends and extended hours when the project demands it. Moreover, you should be prepared to travel to customer sites for essential meetings as the need arises.

To be successful in this multifaceted position, you will need a strong foundation in both software engineering and systems administration. Experience with secure development practices and familiarity with the testing of cyber tools within classified environments will be invaluable. Your ability to work collaboratively leading a small team will be critical to your success. The ideal candidate will come prepared to tackle diverse challenges, adapt to varying workloads, and continuously seek ways to improve the tools and environments you work with. Your commitment to the role will be evident in your willingness to take on additional hours and your readiness to engage with the team and clients in a variety of settings.

What you need to get into the door:

• Cyber tool testing experience
• In depth knowledge of Python
• Network threat hunting
• Prior experience with military or government cyber operations support
• Ability to interpret a database of results; describe test set up and results to team members and client; review log files; write reports; update documentation files
• Confidence and creativity to recommend corrections, tool and test environment improvements, and innovative approaches to incorporate client feedback
• Academic degree(s) in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, Electrical or Computer Engineering, Mathematics or Physics; or equivalent military experience

Bonus if you have:

• Experience with Bash
• Experience with complex cyber tools testing
• Experience with VMware, vSphere, ESXi, Workstation, managing storage solutions 
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Knowledge of C/C++

Clearance: 

• Must have an active TS/SCI level clearance