About the role

The Cyber Security Project Engineer is responsible for conducting hands-on security testing, penetration testing, and leveraging adversarial tactics to identify vulnerabilities. They will also design and implement resilient IT security architectures across Linux, Windows, and virtualized environments.

What they look for

Cyber Security Penetration Testing Linux Windows Network Security Analysis Vulnerability Assessment Risk Mitigation IT Security Architecture Adversarial Tactics System Exploitation Network Management Hypervisors Enterprise Systems Risk Management Cloud Computing

Requirements

Candidates must possess an active TS/SCI clearance with a Full Scope Polygraph and have demonstrated experience in cyber security principles and system exploitation. A bachelor's degree and relevant certifications like CEH, OSCP, or GPEN are highly desired.

Benefits

Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) Plan Employer Match Paid Time Off Training Budget Paid Holidays Spot Bonuses

Full description

Cyber Security Project Engineer

Department: Data Analysis and Technology Services

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Herndon, VA

Compensation: $130,000 - $260,000 / year

Description

REQUIRED: Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph LOCATION: Full-time, onsite, Herndon, VA

Step into a role where your cyber security expertise directly strengthens enterprise‑level systems and national‑scale infrastructure. As a Cyber Security Project Engineer, you’ll apply computer attack methods and system exploitation techniques, and engineer resilient architectures across Linux, Windows, and virtualized environments. If you thrive in complex networks, excel at uncovering vulnerabilities, and know how to turn penetration test results into actionable risk‑mitigation strategies, this is your next challenge.

Who We Are: We offer advanced services in data science, data engineering, software engineering, AI solutions, cybersecurity, staff augmentation, and IT program management.

Passionate Integrity, Driven by Excellence At Ardent Principles, passionate integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence define who we are. We offer a competitive salary range and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your long‑term success. Our mission is to connect fulfilled employees with satisfied clients, ensuring your well‑being and professional satisfaction directly contribute to exceptional outcomes for those we serve.

Join us as we continue building the future of secure, high‑impact solutions.

Key Responsibilities

In this challenging yet rewarding role as a Cyber Security Project Engineer, you are an integral part of what brings our Company's mission to life. You are primarily responsible for and must have demonstrated experience in and/or using:

Cyber security or related IT field

Cyber penetration testing

Leveraging adversarial tactics to conduct hands-on security testing

Applying computer attack methods and system exploitation techniques

Working knowledge of cyber security principles for Linux, Windows, and virtual platforms

Designing, testing, or implementing IT security architecture

Performing network security analysis

Analyzing network architectures

Using network management tools

Developing risk management methodologies

Analyzing test results to develop risk and threat mitigation plans

Testing or reviewing system configuration, development, and design specifically around enterprise systems and hypervisors

Designing, testing, or implementing complex Windows installations

Highly Desired Qualifications

Other skills and demonstrated experiences that are highly desired but not mandatory to perform the work, include working with and/or knowledge of:

Participating in public and private information security groups and organizations

Communicating vulnerability results and risk posture to senior executives

Performing complex technical tasks with minimal direction

Google Cloud Computing Services

Oracle Cloud Computing Services

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or other related scientific or technical discipline

One or more of the relevant certifications: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) Global Information Assurance Certification Penetration Tester (GPEN).

What We Offer You

Highly Competitive Salary: Recognizing and rewarding your expertise and contributions.
Generous Paid Time Off: Providing ample time for rest, relaxation, and personal pursuits.
Dedicated Training Budget: Supporting continuous learning and professional development.
100% Employer-Covered Family Vision, Dental, and Health Insurance: Ensuring comprehensive health coverage for you and your family.
100% Employer-Covered Life and Disability Insurance: Offering financial security and peace of mind.
401(k) Plan with a 6% Employer Match: Helping you plan and save for a secure retirement, with 100% vesting from day one.
11 Paid Government Holidays: Observing national holidays to ensure time off with family and friends.
Spot Bonuses for Exceptional Performance: Rewarding outstanding contributions and achievements.

SCHEDULE: This is a full-time position with consultants expected to be available and working onsite in Herndon, VA during core hours.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of a team dedicated to driving positive change through technology. Apply now with our easy 3-minute, mobile-friendly initial application process. Your future starts here!