Senior Federal Cyber Defense Engineer (Hands-on)

Accenture Federal Services; Washington; On-site; USD 126,000 - 243,000; Full time

Job summary

Accenture Federal Services seeks a Principal Cyber Defense Engineer to lead advanced cybersecurity efforts for federal clients, focusing on robust, practical security architectures and incident response.

You will guide threat hunting, forensics, remediation, and security strategy, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deploy secure, compliant solutions and stay ahead of emerging threats.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in a cybersecurity role with hands-on focus.
• Experience leading technical teams.
• Hands-on design/engineering with 3+ cybersecurity tools.
• Scripting in Python, PowerShell, or Bash.
• Active Secret Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, implementation and management of advanced cybersecurity systems.
• Hands-on system configuration, integration and optimization.
• Engage in incident response activities: threat hunting, forensics, remediation.
• Develop cybersecurity strategies and initiatives to enhance security.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deploy customized cybersecurity solutions.
• Stay updated on trends and apply to improve security posture.
• Provide guidance on best practices, policies and frameworks.
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations and standards.
• Prepare and present technical reports to stakeholders and clients.

Skills

Team leadership

Threat hunting

Incident response

Python scripting

Security policy guidance

Clearance awareness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity/IT

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Firewall configuration

IDS/IPS

Endpoint protection

SIEM

SOAR

Network security monitoring

SASE

CNAPP

Job description

Accenture Federal Services seeks a Principal Cyber Defense Engineer to lead advanced cybersecurity efforts for federal clients, focusing on robust, practical security architectures and incident response.

You will guide threat hunting, forensics, remediation, and security strategy, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deploy secure, compliant solutions and stay ahead of emerging threats.