Protocol Analyst, Level 3 with Security Clearance

Independent Software, Inc.; Maryland; On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

401K matching

Paid time off

Training & certs

Life insurance

Job summary

Independent Software is a consulting, product, and solutions firm focused on practical software and systems engineering to solve complex problems. We emphasize learning, training, and certs while offering strong benefits and a collaborative environment across on-site offices.

As a Protocol Analyst, Level 3 in Annapolis Junction, MD, you will conduct advanced signals and protocol analyses to support mission-critical operations.

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering, Math, CS, or related field.
• Experience with signals analysis and protocol analysis.
• Knowledge of network troubleshooting and security analysis.
• Active TS SCI clearance with polygraph is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform signals and protocol analysis on complex communications data.
• Determine signal structure and define signal parameters.
• Model and characterize signal behavior.
• Analyze network protocols and traffic.
• Document findings and communicate results.
• Apply analysis tools to support mission requirements.
• Identify patterns and anomalies in network data.

Skills

Signals analysis

Protocol analysis

Networking protocols

Network traffic analysis

Pattern recognition

Documentation & reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Doctoral degree

Associate's degree

High school diploma

Job description

Who are we? Independent Software is a consulting, product, and solutions firm dedicated to the practical application of software and system engineering technologies to solve complex problems. We bring together world class engineers with proven engineering best practices, domain expertise, commercial technologies, and proven agile management approaches to create high value solutions aimed at helping our customers meet their most critical business and mission objectives.

Why Independent Software? We are focused on continual learning and evolution. We don’t do things because “that’s the way we’ve always done things”; we listen to our employees and adapt to the changing marketplace. We look at the big picture and encourage our engineers to get training and certifications in emerging technologies that will help shape our customer’s mission. We’ve been profitable year after year. We’re always on the lookout for great engineers to join the team and we recognize that our employees are the heart and soul of what we do. We focus on recruiting talented people, treating them right, and then allowing them to do what they do best. No red tape. No micromanagement. Smart people want to work with smart people, and we love people who are passionate about what they do and finding ways to do it better.

Top Reasons to Work at Independent Software:

• Great people deserve even better benefits, from comprehensive healthcare coverage and generous leave time to discounts with all our vendors.
• You are not just a job title. That's why we tip the work-life balance scale in your favor. It's not about being billable, it's about being valuable.
• Whether you're working on-site or in our offices, your role at Independent Software is just as critical to our success as your coworker's.
• We're constantly researching and implementing the latest technology, so you've always got the right tools at your disposal.
• As we've grown, we've retained that small company feel. When we say we have an open-door policy, we actually mean it.
• Independent Software is comprised of wonderfully generous folks. We believe in supporting the causes our employees care about. Bring us an opportunity to help and we'll listen.
• Teamwork got us where we are today. Our collaborative environment allows you to maximize your true potential.
• The work we do is exciting, critical stuff. No matter your role at Independent Software, you're helping us keep the nation safe and secure.
• We have a history of great achievement, and, with each year, our company gets even bigger and better. As we grow, so does the opportunity for our employees.
• We host a variety of fun employee and family events throughout the year to say thanks for all that you do to make Independent Software a technology leader as well as a phenomenal place to work.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Company Sponsored Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans
• Company Paid Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Your retirement plan is an important benefit you shouldn’t overlook. We offer a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust that offers a powerful way to enhance your long‑term financial well‑being by investing in yourself. We offer immediate eligibility and company matching.
• A generous Paid Time Off and Holiday package
• Paid training! We encourage all employees to seek out training opportunities like conferences, certification courses and seminars.
• We truly believe the right work-life balance can exist, and it's here at Independent Software. Our work is extremely important, but your job is just a part of who you are. When you enjoy your life outside of our walls, you're at your best the next time you walk through our doors. We do all we can to assure that happens every day.

Independent Software is an Equal Opportunity Employer EOE, M/F/D/V.

Protocol Analyst, Level 3 | Annapolis Junction, MD | Full Time | Cybersecurity Experienced

What You Will Do:

As a Protocol Analyst, Level 3 at Independent Software, you will perform advanced signals and protocol analysis in support of mission‑critical operations. You will analyze signal characteristics, communications, and network data to determine signal structure, define parameters, model signal behavior, and identify relevant patterns and characteristics. This role requires a strong foundation in networking and protocols, along with experience analyzing complex signals and communications data.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform signals and protocol analysis on complex communications data
• Analyze signal characteristics to determine signal structure and define signal parameters
• Model and characterize signal behavior
• Analyze communications and network protocols
• Apply networking and protocol knowledge to signal analysis activities
• Analyze network traffic and communications data to identify patterns, characteristics, and anomalies
• Support network troubleshooting, traffic characterization, and security analysis
• Document technical findings and communicate analytical results
• Apply technical analysis tools and methodologies to support mission requirements

Required Skills And Qualifications

• Experience performing signals analysis and protocol analysis
• Experience analyzing signal characteristics, structure, parameters, and behavior
• Strong understanding of networking and communications protocols
• Experience with network traffic analysis and characterization
• Ability to analyze complex technical data and identify relevant patterns or anomalies
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to document and communicate technical findings
• Experience in one or more of the following areas is a plus:
  • COMINT
  • ELINT
  • FISINT
  • PROFORMA
  • Research and Development (R&D)
  • Field analysis
  • Weaponeering
  • Space‑related analysis

Education and Experience:

• 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

Requirements

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:

• 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.