Associate Cybersecurity Operations Researcher

Carnegie Mellon University

Associate cybersecurity researcher supporting CERT Security Operations at Carnegie Mellon’s Software Engineering Institute. Developing cyber operations research, training, technical publications, and defensive capabilities for government and international partners.

Posted 8/7/2026full-timePittsburgh • Pennsylvania, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-LevelWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in cybersecurity, risk analysis, and project management, with a strong ability to communicate complex technical information to diverse audiences. Proficient in utilizing computer network defense tools and engaging with international stakeholders while maintaining a focus on security compliance and documentation.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Cybersecurity KnowledgeProject Management MethodologiesTechnical Documentation DevelopmentIncident Response ExperienceCISSP Certification

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Risk AnalysisThreat AssessmentNetwork SecurityTechnical WritingCybersecurity MetricsResearch and PublicationComputer Network DefenseModern Computing TechnologiesSecurity OperationsPrototyping Tools

Soft Skills

CollaborationCultural AwarenessProfessionalismCommunication SkillsCustomer Engagement

Tools & Technologies

Commercial Vendor SolutionsOpen-Source PlatformsNetworking TechnologiesComputing HardwareSecurity Clearance Processes

Certifications & Qualifications

CISSPCEHCISMCompTIA Security+

Industry Keywords

Critical InfrastructureIncident ResponseSecurity OperationsTechnical PublicationsInternational Stakeholders

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Cyber Security

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Conduct and support analytical studies involving risk, threat, and security data
Work independently and collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams
Apply enterprise cybersecurity and technology security knowledge to mission challenges
Utilize computer network defense tools and processes, including commercial vendor solutions and open-source platforms
Brief strategic and technical topics to senior leadership, technical and non-technical audiences, and foreign government officials
Analyze operational challenges and evolving threats facing network security and intelligence organizations
Apply project planning and management methodologies to support program execution
Engage international stakeholders with cultural awareness and professionalism
Produce clear, structured technical documentation for diverse audiences
Develop technical publications and conference presentations
Develop and deliver courses
Engage directly with customers
Prototype tools and methodologies

Requirements

What you’ll need

BS in Computer Science or related discipline with three (3) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with one (1) year of experience
Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally, up to 40% annually
Subject to a background investigation
Must be able to obtain and maintain an active Department of War (DoW) security clearance
Familiarity with critical infrastructure sectors
Experience working within or collaborating with a national Incident Response or Security Operations organization
Technical proficiency with modern computing hardware, software, and networking technologies
Experience conducting research and publishing academic or technical papers
Knowledge of cybersecurity metrics, measurement, and assessment methodologies
Participation in standards bodies, open-source projects, or professional publications
Preferred certifications: CISSP, CEH, CISM, CompTIA Security+, or equivalent

Benefits

Comp & perks

Access tuition benefits at Carnegie Mellon University and other institutions for employees and their dependent children
8% monthly contribution for retirement
Paid parental and military leave
Annual professional development opportunities
Relocation assistance
Accessible recruitment process and reasonable accommodation support