Digital Network Exploitation Analyst (DNEA)

AeroVironment, Inc.; Maryland; On-site; USD 126,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a Digital Network Exploitation Analyst to analyze network and cybersecurity data, identify exploitation opportunities, and support mission operations.

You will apply all‑source intelligence and advanced analytic tradecraft in collaboration with mission partners. The role requires a TS/SCI clearance with polygraph, and candidates should have 8+ years in cybersecurity or related fields.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related technical field (equivalent military training may be considered).
• 8+ years of relevant experience in cybersecurity, network exploitation, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of IP core infrastructure, network traffic analysis, and cybersecurity.
• Experience with SIGINT analysis, vulnerability assessments, or penetration testing.
• Demonstrated ability to work with multi‑disciplinary teams in high‑stakes environments.
• An active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph.

Responsibilities

• Analyze target networks and develop exploitation plans using all-source data.
• Work with SIGINT and cybersecurity data across the OSI model.
• Collaborate with military, government, and contractor teams to address mission‑critical intelligence needs.
• Develop and share new tradecraft and techniques as technologies evolve.
• Use your analytical skills to derive insights, distill findings, and drive forward innovative solutions.

Skills

Cybersecurity

Network exploitation

IP core infrastructure

Network traffic analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Job description

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description Summary

The primary role of the Digital Network Exploitation Analyst is to analyze network and cybersecurity data to identify exploitation opportunities and support mission operations. This role applies all-source intelligence and advanced analytic tradecraft to produce actionable insights in collaboration with mission partners.

Positions Responsibilities

• Analyze target networks and develop exploitation plans using all-source data.
• Work with SIGINT and cybersecurity data across the OSI model.
• Collaborate with military, government, and contractor teams to address mission‑critical intelligence needs.
• Develop and share new tradecraft and techniques as technologies evolve.
• Use your analytical skills to derive insights, distill findings, and drive forward innovative solutions.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related technical field (equivalent military training may be considered)
• Minimum of 8+ years of relevant experience in cybersecurity, network exploitation, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of IP core infrastructure, network traffic analysis, and cybersecurity.
• Experience with SIGINT analysis, vulnerability assessments, or penetration testing.
• Demonstrated ability to work with multi‑disciplinary teams in high‑stakes environments.
• An active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph.

Salary Range

$83,500 - $210,000 The AV pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Determination of official compensation or salary relies on several factors including, but not limited to, level of position, job responsibilities, geographic location, scope of relevant work experience, educational background, certifications, contract‑specific affordability, organizational requirements, alignment with local internal equity as well as alignment with market data.

ITAR Requirement

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A “U.S. person” according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits

AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC. Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand‑launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship required.

About AV

AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission‑obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI‑powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you’re ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.

Careers at AeroVironment

Careers at AeroVironment