Description Cybersecurity Test & Evaluation Engineer (FIPS / Cryptography)Employment Type: 6 month contract, Potential for Extension or Conversion
Location: Columbia, MD (preferred) | Onsite/Hybrid as applicable
Position OverviewWe are seeking a
Cybersecurity Test & Evaluation Engineer to support accredited testing and evaluation efforts aligned with
FIPS 140 and Common Criteria standards. This role provides the opportunity to work in a hands-on lab environment, performing security testing and validation on products designed to support secure communications in highly regulated and mission-critical environments.
This position is ideal for individuals with a strong foundation in
cryptography, security testing, and software development, who are interested in working across a variety of technologies and contributing to high-impact security initiatives.
Key Responsibilities- Support FIPS 140 validation projects and related evaluation efforts
- Perform security analysis, vulnerability testing, and system-level assessments
- Conduct cryptographic and PKI testing, including algorithm validation
- Evaluate products against established security standards and technology requirements
- Execute physical security testing and architecture-level design analysis
- Perform source code reviews to identify vulnerabilities and compliance gaps
- Develop and execute test cases and automation scripts
- Build and maintain test environments and supporting tools
- Document and deliver technical reports and findings
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support testing, validation, and documentation processes
Requirements Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field
- 2-4 years of relevant experience in cybersecurity, software development, or testing
- Cryptographic Validation Program (CVP) Certification (or equivalent experience)
- Strong knowledge of cryptographic algorithms, including encryption, hashing, key exchange, and PKI
- Experience with programming languages such as C, C++, Python, or Java
- Understanding of networking fundamentals, including routing and subnetting
- Knowledge of security protocols (e.g., SSH, IPsec, TLS)
- Experience building test environments, executing tests, and producing technical documentation
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to interpret and apply security standards and compliance requirements
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with Python development and scripting
- Familiarity with debugging tools (e.g., adb, WinDBG, Visual Studio)
- Knowledge of entropy analysis and random number generation
- Experience with OpenSSL, OpenPGP, or X.509 certificate validation
- Exposure to vulnerability analysis or penetration testing
- Knowledge of Active Directory and Linux environments
- Experience with networking certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP, JNCIA, etc.)
- Hands-on experience with lab instrumentation (e.g., oscilloscope, signal generator)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Core Competencies- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively
- Collaborative approach with the ability to work across technical teams
- Continuous learning mindset and interest in emerging security technologies
What You'll Gain- Hands-on experience with security testing and validation standards (FIPS, Common Criteria)
- Exposure to a wide range of commercial and emerging technologies
- Opportunity to work in a collaborative, knowledge-sharing environment
- Experience contributing to high-impact cybersecurity initiatives
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