Cyber Research & Development Engineer

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Cyber Research & Development Engineer in our Intel Sector. Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering, Computer Network Operations (CNO), Mission Software, Analytical Methods and Modeling, Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Cryptographic Key Management. At Leidos, we offer competitive benefits, including Paid Time Off, 11 paid Holidays, 401K with a 6% company match and immediate vesting, Flexible Schedules, Discounted Stock Purchase Plans, Technical Upskilling, Education and Training Support, Parental Paid Leave, and much more. Join us and make a difference in National Security!

Job Summary:

Seeking an experienced Cyber Engineer to provide research and development capability, supporting requirements for the Joint Cyber Weapons (JCW) program for the United States Marine Corps. The engineer will conduct software and systems engineering and software systems research in order to facilitate the development of new capabilities. Critical to this expertise will be the ability to conduct comprehensive technology research to evaluate potential vulnerabilities in cyberspace systems.

Job Responsibilities/Qualifications:

• Mission Focus: Work directly with Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command (MFCC), the Cyber Mission Force (CMF), conduct comprehensive technology research to evaluate potential vulnerabilities in cyberspace systems, including:
  • Conduct comprehensive technology research to identify and evaluate potential vulnerabilities in cyberspace systems, including perimeter, cloud-based, and cyber-physical environments.
  • Conceptualize, design, develop, and prototype secure technology systems and solutions with cybersecurity fully integrated from inception through the systems development lifecycle.
  • Perform software and systems engineering activities to create and advance new capabilities that address mission needs while embedding secure-by-design principles.
  • Analyze emerging technologies, threats, and trends to inform the development of innovative defensive or resilient cyber solutions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to translate operational requirements into secure technical concepts, prototypes, and testable implementations.
  • Evaluate the security implications of software configurations, system architectures, and procurement options to mitigate risks in new developments.
  • Document research findings, prototype designs, test results, and vulnerability assessments to support transition to production or operational use.
  • Contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies in support of national defense and cyberspace mission objectives.
• Technical Proficiency:
• Experience conducting applied research in cybersecurity, emerging technologies, or software systems to identify vulnerabilities and develop mitigations.
• Ability to perform technology assessments, conceptualize secure systems, and ensure cybersecurity principles are embedded throughout the development lifecycle.
• Background in analyzing cyberspace threats, vulnerabilities, or emerging trends to inform the development of new defensive or offensive cyber capabilities.
• Familiarity with full-stack development, systems integration, or R&D environments supporting national security, defense, or DoD-related missions.
• Experience in technical R&D, engineering, or cybersecurity development role.
• Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in technical discipline plus fifteen+ (15+) years directing complex R&D projects to identify/develop cyber capabilities or vulnerabilities, mentoring teams on secure systems engineering, providing expert assessments of emerging tech cybersecurity implications, innovating new secure solutions with minimal oversight, or publishing/contributing to cyber research advancements.
• Security Clearance: Must possess an active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph to be considered for this role.
• Desired certifications: Security X/CASP+, RCCE Level 1, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and CGLC.

At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that allow them to thrive professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business. We look forward to learning more about you - apply today!

Careers.leidos.com

CONMD

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:
March 12, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:
Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00

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.