IT Systems Analyst V (AFCAT) Network

About the role

This position supports the Air Force Cyber Assessment Team (AFCAT) in the 688th Cyberspace Wing and conducts Cyber Operational Readiness Assessments (CORA) at Air Force locations around the world. These assessments will help strengthen the posture and resiliency of the DoW Information Network (DOWIN) by supporting commanders and directors in their efforts to harden their information systems, reduce the attack surface of their cyber terrain, and enhance a more proactive defense.

Team members will specialize in Cyber Operational Risk Assessments (CORA), focusing on areas such as endpoint security, network vulnerability, insider threat, and more. This role helps ensure Air Force compliance and effectiveness in cyber defense strategies.

This position will involve assessing administrative, operational, and technical security measures for network infrastructure devices and applications by identifying vulnerabilities using automated tools such as SCAP and STIG Viewer.

Key responsibilities include assessing security controls, analyzing system and network configurations, and providing reports with recommendations for improving security posture against standards like NIST and DCDC OPORD 8600. The role requires a strong technical background, analytical skills, and knowledge of various operating systems and security tools.

Key Tasks & Responsibilities

• Determine, in conjunction with supervisor, the technology areas to focus personal training on and when to enter the program for required training
• Contractor shall obtain Department of Defense Cyber Defense Command (DCDC) certification in assigned technology areas (customer funded) and complete required assessments and evaluations. Training must be completed no more than six months prior to the On-the-Job Training (OJT), check ride, and assessments.
• Ensure all certification requirements are up to date, including a minimum of 4 assessments per technology area each fiscal year.
• Contractor shall utilize appropriate tools and methodologies based on DCDC standard processes and procedures.
• Stay informed on 688 CW/CC, AFCYBER/CC, and larger Air Force strategic priorities to inform base selection for CORAs.
• Advocate with wing organizations for access to enterprise assets and capabilities to prepare for CORA.
• Support daily assessment meetings to track progress and provide summaries to base leadership and 688 CW leadership.
• Complete assessment checklists as required.
• Perform in-depth technical assessments of n etwork architecture, system configurations, and security controls.
• Analyze n etwork configurations to identify and document security weaknesses and assess associated risks.
• Create clear, detailed reports of findings and provide recommendations for remediation.
• Participate in regular teleconferences with base comm squadron leadership to identify issues and inform commanders on risk.
• Provide written feedback on process update recommendations.
• Coordinate travel arrangements with fellow assessment team members.
• Complete supervisory and administrative tasks as required.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

• Requires a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) +5 years of experience, or 8+ years of related experience
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must have excellent critical thinking skills
• Possess an understanding of network architecture to include review of network diagrams/topology.
• Possess an overall understanding of router/ firewall /switch configurations.
• Understanding of network traffic flow.
• Understanding of evaluating systems against security control frameworks and working with customers in a professional setting.

Certifications

Required

• IA T II - Sec+, CASP+, or higher

Desired

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate
• AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Certified Protection Professional (CPP)

Security Clearance

Required: Must have active Secret clearance with ability to obtain a Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility

Desired

Active Top Secret Clearance with SCI eligibility

Other (Travel, Work Environment, DoD 8570 Requirements, Administrative Notes, etc.)

• Anticipate team members travelling 6 to 7 weeks per year but could be more or less
• Must possess or obtain a US Passport within 6 months
• Must be able to fund your travel up front and you will be reimbursed upon filing expense repor t