Cybersecurity Intern

Leidos; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 87,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Direct mentorship

Security clearance sponsorship

Job summary

Leidos is seeking motivated interns for a National Capital Region security internship track. The role provides direct mentorship from senior systems administrators and network engineers, with real-world exposure to enterprise DoD environments.

You'll contribute to threat research, log gathering, and vulnerability scanning while learning DoD 8140 compliance and modern device management in a fast-paced setting. The program starts mid-2027 and offers hands-on training and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in accredited college/university pursuing IT/CS/Cybersecurity/Info Systems/Engineering or related field (rising Juniors/Seniors or Masters considered).
• U.S. Citizenship required with ability to obtain DoD Secret clearance.
• Basic understanding of networks (IP, ports, protocols) and cybersecurity concepts (malware, threats, vulnerabilities).
• Ability to follow documented processes and pay attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Assist research on threats, malware trends, and vulnerabilities.
• Support security investigations by gathering logs and context for senior analysts.
• Help run and review vulnerability scans and track remediation progress.
• Document SOPs, incidents, and security findings for audits.
• Contribute to automation ideas and process improvements.

Skills

Strong written and verbal comms

Microsoft Office

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelors in IT/CS/Cybersecurity/Info Systems/Engineering or related

Tools

SIEM

Endpoint protection

Vulnerability scanners

Python

PowerShell

Bash

Linux/Unix/Windows

Job description

Primary Qualifications

• Basics of network and cloud security architecture
• How to research threats, malware trends, and new vulnerabilities
• How security policies, compliance requirements, and risk assessments are applied
• How automation and scripting support security workflows
• Monitor incoming security alerts and perform initial investigation steps
• Gather logs, data, and context to support senior analysts during investigations
• Assist with running and reviewing vulnerability scans
• Track remediation progress and update documentation
• Support user access reviews, identity audits, and permission cleanups
• Document standard operating procedures, incidents, and security findings
• Help research emerging threats and prepare brief summaries
• Participate in team meetings, security projects, and tool onboarding efforts
• Assist in implementing process improvements or automation ideas
• Support cybersecurity awareness initiatives or training activities

Required Qualifications

Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university pursuing a degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Computer Engineering, or a related field (Rising Juniors, Seniors or Master’s level considered). U.S. Citizenship required, with the ability to obtain and maintain an active Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance. Basic understanding of computer networks (IP addresses, ports, protocols) Awareness of general cybersecurity concepts (malware, threats, vulnerabilities) Ability to follow documented processes and pay attention to detail Familiarity with Linux, Unix, and Windows operating system Problem-solving skills Knowledge of web application security Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and risk management methodologies Familiarity with corrective action management, and auditing principles Demonstrated understanding of TCP/IP, common networking ports and protocols system administration, and common security elements

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or certifications in cybersecurity, IT, or computer science
• Experience with or exposure to security tools (SIEM, endpoint protection, vulnerability scanners)
• Foundational scripting knowledge (Python, PowerShell, or Bash)
• Understanding of security frameworks
• Prior internship or experience in IT, engineering, defense, or customer-support environments
• Knowledge of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) directives

Core Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Outlook/Teams)
• High organizational ability, attention to detail, and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Work location and schedule

National Capital Region (Pentagon / Joint Base Andrews / Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling) FT or PT, core business hours 8am-4pm, 10-12 week internship, target start early June 2027 Limited public transportation options

Why Leidos?

Direct Mentorship: Daily guidance from senior systems administrators and network engineers.

Resume-Building Experience: Real-world enterprise exposure supporting high-profile DoD environments.

Security Clearance Sponsorship: Opportunity to obtain and utilize a federal security clearance, opening doors for long-term career growth in government contracting and defense tech.

Skill Development: Practical familiarity with DoD 8140 compliance, cyber skills, and modern device management.

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

October 27, 2026

Pay Range

Pay Range $48,100.00 - $86,950.00 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.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available here.

Commitment and Diversity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.