Become a Leader in Cybersecurity with the Defense Information Systems Agency
Are you a seasoned IT professional looking to apply your expertise to the mission of national security? The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is currently hiring an IT Cybersecurity Specialist for a high-impact, mission-essential role in Ford Island, Hawaii. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead large-scale enterprise network operations and security initiatives within the Department of Defense.
Job Responsibilities
As an IT Cybersecurity Specialist, you will function as the principal technical authority for enterprise services. Key duties include:
- Incident Response: Leading theater-level incident command for cyber events and system outages.
- Operational Monitoring: Developing and maintaining a Common Operating Picture (COP) to assess network health.
- Architecture Design: Configuring specialized enterprise architectures to support military exercises and critical operations.
- Policy Oversight: Applying rigorous cybersecurity principles to ensure system integrity and availability.
Comparison Table: Qualifications and Expectations
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GG-13 (Non-supervisory) |
| Security Clearance | Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) |
| Experience Focus | Enterprise LAN/WAN and Incident Response |
| Mission Status | Mission Essential (Report to work during emergencies) |
Requirements
To qualify for this senior-level role, candidates must demonstrate extensive experience in the following:
- Technical Leadership: Coordinating triage and response for major IT outages.
- Proactive Monitoring: Utilizing advanced tools to manage and assess enterprise system health.
- Network Architecture: Designing and configuring secure architectures for large-scale environments.
- Communication: Briefing non-technical leadership on complex cyber incidents and IT operations.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $111,119 to $144,457 per year, commensurate with qualifications and the specific requirements of the Cyber Excepted Service (CES) pay scale.
Benefits
Employees of DISA enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for specialized professional training and career growth.
Application Tips
Submit a focused, two-page resume that clearly links your professional history to the specific qualifying experience listed in the announcement. Be as detailed as possible regarding your roles as a technical lead in incident management. Ensure all required certifications or checklists for preference eligibility are submitted prior to the August 27, 2026, deadline.
This role is ideal for cybersecurity professionals who thrive under pressure and want to make a tangible contribution to national security. Apply today to secure your future with DISA.
Why This It Cybersecurity Specialist Job Matters
Protect the backbone of national defense—join the Defense Information Systems Agency as a lead IT Cybersecurity Specialist in Hawaii.
It Cybersecurity Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is seeking a highly skilled IT Cybersecurity Specialist to join its PAC/PC41 team in Ford Island, Hawaii. Operating within the Cyber Excepted Service (CES), this mission-essential role serves as the primary technical authority for enterprise-level network operations, incident response, and cybersecurity policy implementation. You will lead complex triage activities during major outages and design architectures that support critical military exercises and real-time operations.
Requirements for It Cybersecurity Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Special-Sensitive (SS)/High Risk security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GG-12)
- Experience managing large-scale, complex enterprise networks (LAN/WAN)
- Documented history as a technical lead for incident response and real-time diagnostic activities
- Experience developing and managing a Common Operating Picture (COP) for system health monitoring
- Ability to design and configure architectures for real-time operations or military exercises
- Two-page maximum resume submission
Preferred Qualifications for It Cybersecurity Specialist
- Demonstrated expertise in IT enterprise architecture
- Proven experience in Tier III escalation and multi-system troubleshooting
- Background in military or large-scale federal enterprise network management
- Direct experience in translating operational needs into actionable enterprise IT solutions
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential relocation incentives for eligible candidates
- ✓Flexible telework arrangements based on mission requirements
💡 How to Apply It Cybersecurity Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for It Cybersecurity Specialist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a two-page maximum federal resume highlighting specific technical leadership experience.
- Complete the required Assessment Questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including SF-50 (if applicable) and veterans' preference documentation.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of August 27, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on the specific qualifying experience: incident response leadership and network health management.
- Ensure your resume includes start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Avoid including sensitive personal information like SSNs or photos.
- Verify your eligibility for preferences (Veterans, Military Spouse, etc.) and submit all required checklists promptly.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and correctly attached before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for conversion to the Competitive Service?
No. This position is part of the Cyber Excepted Service (CES) and does not confer eligibility for conversion to the Competitive Service.
What level of security clearance is required?
The role requires a Special-Sensitive (SS)/High Risk clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
Can education be substituted for experience?
No, at the GG-13 grade level for this specific position, there is no substitution of education for the required qualifying professional experience.
Job from Defense Information Systems Agency
DISA is a combat support agency that provides, operates, and assures command and control, information-sharing capabilities, and a globally accessible enterprise information infrastructure in direct support of the President, the Secretary of Defense, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Working here means ensuring that military forces have the secure, reliable communication tools required for global success.