Protocol Analyst, Level 3

Independent Software, Inc.; Annapolis (MD); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Independent Software is seeking a Protocol Analyst, Level 3 to perform advanced telecommunications and network protocol analysis in support of mission-critical operations. You will analyze network traffic, protocols, and infrastructure to identify characteristics and potential areas of interest.

You will apply your knowledge of network engineering and signals analysis to complex telecommunications environments, with a strong focus on network-layer analysis and CNO-related activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree plus eight (8) years of relevant experience or
• Master’s degree plus six (6) years of relevant experience or
• Doctoral degree plus four (4) years of relevant experience or
• High school diploma or GED plus twelve (12) years of relevant experience or
• Associate’s degree plus ten (10) years of relevant experience

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced telecommunications-based network and protocol analysis
• Analyze network traffic and characterize network communications and behavior
• Conduct protocol analysis to support signals analysis activities
• Analyze network-layer technologies and telecommunications infrastructure
• Apply knowledge of Cisco and Huawei technologies in analysis
• Analyze MPLS and SDH network environments
• Support network troubleshooting and security analysis
• Develop XKS fingerprints and microplugins as required
• Document technical findings from complex network data
• Support mission activities involving CNO operations and tools

Skills

Network analysis

Signals analysis

Protocol analysis

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Network troubleshooting

Traffic characterization

CNO operations knowledge

Documentation of findings

Education

Bachelor's degree + 8 years

Master's degree + 6 years

Doctoral degree + 4 years

High school diploma or GED + 12 years

Associate's degree + 10 years

Tools

Cisco technologies

Huawei technologies

Job description

What You Will Do:

As a Protocol Analyst, Level 3 at Independent Software, you will perform advanced telecommunications and network protocol analysis in support of mission-critical operations. You will analyze network traffic, protocols, and telecommunications infrastructure to identify characteristics, behaviors, and potential areas of interest.

In this role, you will apply your knowledge of network engineering and signals analysis to complex telecommunications environments, with a strong focus on network-layer analysis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform telecommunications-based network and protocol analysis
• Analyze network traffic and characterize network communications and behavior
• Conduct protocol analysis in support of signals analysis activities
• Analyze network-layer technologies and telecommunications infrastructure
• Apply network engineering knowledge involving Cisco and Huawei technologies
• Analyze MPLS and SDH network environments
• Support network troubleshooting and network security analysis
• Develop XKS fingerprints and microplugins as required
• Analyze complex network data and document technical findings
• Support mission activities involving CNO operations and associated tools

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of telecommunications-based network analysis, particularly at the network layer
• Experience performing signals and protocol analysis
• Network engineering experience with Cisco and/or Huawei technologies
• Knowledge of MPLS and SDH
• Experience with network troubleshooting, network traffic characterization, and/or network security analysis
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to analyze complex network communications and technical data

Education and Experience:

Candidates must meet one of the following:

• Bachelor's degree plus eight (8) years of relevant experience; OR
• Master's degree plus six (6) years of relevant experience; OR
• Doctoral degree plus four (4) years of relevant experience; OR
• High school diploma or GED plus twelve (12) years of relevant experience; OR
• Associate's degree plus ten (10) years of relevant experience

Individuals who have completed 451 (Intermediate Signals Analysis), 452 (Advanced Signals Analysis), or participated in or graduated from the Military COMINT Signals Analysis Program (MCSAP) may also be considered in accordance with the applicable experience requirements. Degree must be in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, a Physical Science, or a related field. Relevant experience must be in signals analysis, including protocol analysis, and also include network troubleshooting, network traffic characterization, and/or network security analysis.

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

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.