Cryptologic Computer Scientist, Level 3

Independent Software, Inc.; Ellicott City (MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Generous benefits

Ongoing training and mentorship

Job summary

A cybersecurity solutions provider in Ellicott City is seeking a Cryptologic Computer Scientist/Cyber Threat Analyst to tackle complex cyber threats using analytical approaches. Ideal candidates will have a doctoral degree and extensive experience in cybersecurity missions. The role requires strong programming skills, particularly in Python, and the ability to analyze large data sets. Join a dynamic team focused on national security, with competitive compensation and a commitment to professional growth.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting cyber or cryptologic missions.
• Familiarity with cyber threat analysis and digital forensics.
• Comfort with large data processing frameworks like Spark.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop solutions to complex cyber threat problems.
• Perform cyber threat analysis and identify adversary behaviors.
• Analyze structured and unstructured data to identify anomalies.

Skills

Proficiency in Python

Strong problem-solving skills

Ability to analyze large data sets

Understanding of network architectures

Education

Doctoral Degree in Computer Science or related field

Master’s Degree in Computer Science or related field

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field

Associate Degree in Computer Science or related field

Job description

What You Will Do

As a Cryptologic Computer Scientist / Cyber Threat Analyst, Level 3, you will design, develop, and deliver advanced technical solutions within a scientific and analytical framework to support mission‑critical cyber operations. This role blends deep computer science expertise with cyber threat analysis, requiring comfort working with large‑scale data sets, advanced analytics, and investigative problem‑solving.

You will support a wide range of cryptologic and cybersecurity missions, including forensics, attack attribution, critical network protection, penetration testing, and cyber threat discovery. Leveraging strong programming and data analysis skills, you will analyze complex network and protocol data, uncover patterns, and generate insights that drive operational awareness and defensive capabilities.

This position is ideal for an inquisitive, discovery‑focused professional who enjoys exploring complex data, developing innovative techniques, and applying computer science fundamentals to real‑world cyber challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, deliver, and operate solutions to complex cryptologic and cyber threat problems using a scientific and analytical approach.
• Perform cyber threat analysis activities including forensics, attack attribution, and identification of adversary behaviors.
• Analyze large‑scale structured and unstructured data sets to identify anomalies, patterns, and indicators of compromise.
• Apply computer science principles to support protection of critical networks, active system warnings, and penetration testing activities.
• Conduct knowledge discovery across passive and active systems to support cyber and cryptologic missions.
• Utilize programming, algorithms, and data structures to develop analytical tools and prototypes.
• Perform network and protocol analysis to support detection, investigation, and mitigation of cyber threats.
• Collaborate with mission partners, analysts, and engineers to translate analytical findings into actionable intelligence.
• Document methodologies, findings, and results clearly for technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Experience as a hybrid computer scientist and cyber threat analyst supporting cyber or cryptologic missions.
• Proficiency in Python and experience working with large‑scale data processing frameworks such as Spark.
• Strong understanding of network architectures, protocols, and traffic analysis.
• Experience performing cyber threat analysis, digital forensics, or attack attribution.
• Comfort working with large data sets and applying analytical techniques to extract meaningful insights.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with a curiosity‑driven, discovery‑focused mindset.
• Ability to apply advanced computer science concepts to real‑world cybersecurity challenges.
• Familiarity with customer or mission‑specific analytical tools is beneficial but not required.

Education and Experience

• Doctoral Degree plus 4 years of relevant experience
• Master’s Degree plus 6 years of relevant experience
• Bachelor’s Degree plus 8 years of relevant experience
• Associate Degree plus 10 years of relevant experience

Degree must be in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field and include at least one programming course and a minimum of four upper‑level mathematics courses (Calculus and above).

Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following areas:

• Theoretical or applied computer science
• Simulation or model development
• Designing, developing, using, or evaluating mathematical models, methods, or techniques
• Computational science, algorithm analysis, and algorithm design
• Reverse engineering
• Designing, developing, or integrating computer and information systems, including hardware and/or software

Clearance Requirement

• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.

When You Join Us, You Will

• Support critical national security missions that matter
• Be part of a close‑knit, employee‑first culture where your voice is heard
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work‑life balance

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.

Apply today.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.