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Job outlook for defense analysts in the United States
Are defense analyst jobs in demand?
Defense analyst job and salary trends over time
Defense analyst jobs over time
Defense analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 0 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 573 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 232 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 812 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 791 | 0.00% |
Average defense analyst salary over time
Defense analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $86,453 | $41.56 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $83,605 | $40.19 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $81,712 | $39.28 | +3.0% |
| 2022 | $79,352 | $38.15 | +3.1% |
| 2021 | $76,935 | $36.99 | +2.8% |
Defense analyst jobs by state
Most common states for defense analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 439 | 63% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,733 | 20% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 890 | 15% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 666 | 10% |
| 5 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 588 | 10% |
| 6 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 270 | 9% |
| 7 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 91 | 9% |
| 8 | Vermont | 623,657 | 59 | 9% |
| 9 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 292 | 7% |
| 10 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 94 | 7% |
| 11 | Delaware | 961,939 | 70 | 7% |
| 12 | Alaska | 739,795 | 54 | 7% |
| 13 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 50 | 7% |
| 14 | California | 39,536,653 | 2,181 | 6% |
| 15 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 435 | 6% |
| 16 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 418 | 6% |
| 17 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 351 | 6% |
| 18 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 114 | 6% |
| 19 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 63 | 6% |
| 20 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 49 | 6% |
Most common cities for defense analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Annapolis | 14 | 36% | $83,645 |
| 2 | Sierra Vista | 2 | 5% | $88,685 |
| 3 | Frankfort | 1 | 4% | $81,753 |
| 4 | Cedar City | 1 | 3% | $99,642 |
| 5 | Alpharetta | 1 | 2% | $70,953 |
| 6 | Washington | 5 | 1% | $77,073 |
| 7 | Urban Honolulu | 2 | 1% | $68,934 |
| 8 | Hartford | 1 | 1% | $73,107 |
| 9 | Huntsville | 1 | 1% | $79,410 |
| 10 | Arlington | 1 | 0% | $95,902 |
| 11 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $70,870 |
| 12 | Baton Rouge | 1 | 0% | $78,429 |
| 13 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $86,232 |
| 14 | Colorado Springs | 1 | 0% | $76,221 |
| 15 | Des Moines | 1 | 0% | $79,213 |
| 16 | Houston | 1 | 0% | $79,314 |
| 17 | Indianapolis | 1 | 0% | $78,049 |
Defense Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of defense analyst experts
University of Alabama at Huntsville
West Virginia State University
University of Maryland Global Campus
Pennsylvania State University - Altoona
Pennsylvania State University - Lehigh Valley
The University of Tampa
Medaille College
What general advice would you give to a Defense Analyst?
Tommy Morris Ph.D.: Cybersecurity is an ever evolving landscape. The tools you use in your job will change as your career progresses. Make sure to understand the underlying concepts behind the tools and the attacks you are defending against so that you can easily adapt to change.
What Defense Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tommy Morris Ph.D.: Be close to the money. Cybersecurity is an expense to many organizations and a profit center for others, the ones that sell cybersecurity software and services. Try to work on the side that profits from cybersecurity if you want to make money.
What will help Defense Analysts increase their earning potential?
Tommy Morris Ph.D.: Two skills are critical for the short term and long term in cybersecurity careers. Short term (3-5 years) artificial intelligence and machine learning will be a big trend in cybersecurity. Take a class in AI/MLand try to understand it can serve as a tool in your toolbox. Longer term, cybersecurity professionals need to be prepared to work on cross functional teams and be good communicators.
Dr. Ali Al-Sinayyid PhD
Assistant ProfessorWest Virginia State University
Computer Science
What general advice would you give to a Defense Analyst?
Dr. Ali Al-Sinayyid PhD: Cloud Security: With the increasing adoption of cloud computing, expertise in securing cloud environments will be crucial. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML): Leveraging AI and ML for threat detection, anomaly detection, and predictive analytics will be essential in staying ahead of sophisticated cyber threats. Privacy and Data Protection: With the rise of data privacy regulations like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), skills in privacy engineering, data protection, and compliance will be in high demand. IoT Security: As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to expand, securing connected devices and IoT ecosystems will become increasingly important. Threat Intelligence and Cyber Threat Hunting: Proactive threat intelligence gathering and cyber threat hunting skills will be essential for identifying and mitigating advanced cyber threats before they cause significant damage.
What Defense Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Ali Al-Sinayyid PhD: Maximizing salary potential when starting your career in cybersecurity requires strategic planning and ongoing skill development. Here are some steps to consider: Certifications: Obtaining industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CISM, CEH, or CCSP can enhance your marketability and salary potential. Practical Experience: Highlight hands-on experience through internships, co-op programs, research projects, or freelance work to showcase your skills and capabilities to potential employers. Negotiate Salary: Research industry salary benchmarks and be prepared to negotiate your salary based on your qualifications, experience, and the value you bring to the organization. Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and market demand in cybersecurity to position yourself for lucrative opportunities and career advancement. Network and Build Relationships: Cultivate relationships with professionals in the field, participate in industry events, and leverage networking opportunities to uncover hidden job opportunities.
What will help Defense Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Ali Al-Sinayyid PhD: I advise any graduate of computer science entering the cybersecurity field, to focus on continuous learning and practical experience. Stay updated on emerging technologies, threats, and best practices through professional development courses, certifications, and participation in industry conferences and events. Also, you need to seek opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, research projects, or collaboration with industry partners. Finally, consider specializing in a niche area of cybersecurity to differentiate yourself and enhance your expertise.
What general advice would you give to a Defense Analyst?
Jesse Varsalone: Cybersecurity graduates will need to learn to work with Artificial Intelligence (AI) as it becomes more integrated into daily IT tasks for problem solving. The proliferation of IoT (Internet of Things) devices connected to the network will increase the need for cybersecurity professionals to focus on securing these devices. Even more importantly, common cybersecurity tasks like securing and hardening will be even more paramount if networks include critical infrastructure devices. Cyberattacks can have far-reaching financial implications and cause serious damage to the reputation of companies. Attacks can also include intellectual property loss or the disclosure of personal information. As compromises including ransomware attacks continue to plague companies and organizations, it will be essential for cybersecurity professionals to know how to detect, respond to, and remediate these cyberattacks.
What Defense Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jesse Varsalone: Obtaining additional industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), and OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) can make you a more valuable employee. If you are focused in an area like SOC (Security Operations Center), you can make yourself more well-rounded by learning a different role such as penetration (pen) testing. Adding an additional sector of cybersecurity will make you a more valuable asset to your present company and help you understand your current work role even better.
What will help Defense Analysts increase their earning potential?
Jesse Varsalone: There are several things you can do to be successful in your career. Athletes in the NBA and NFL are at the highest level of competition, but they still go to practice all the time and participate in off-season workouts. Anyone in cybersecurity should also practice their skills on a regular basis. Microsoft, VMware, and Oracle provide free virtualization options where you can use Microsoft and Linux virtual machines to practice using the operating systems. Hackthebox and Tryhackme are two cybersecurity training platforms on which you can practice cybersecurity skills with free tiers. Both can help solidify skills and help you gain knowledge in areas of cybersecurity where you might want to expand your skill set. Some of the other ways that you can jump-start your career besides frequent practice include various networking opportunities within the cybersecurity community. Your college or community college may have a cyber team that you can join. Another option might be a local BSides conference (dedicated to advancing information security knowledge-sharing) or a local hackerspace like Unallocated in the Fort Meade, Maryland area. BSides events offer lock picking villages, capture the flag (CTF’s) competitions, and training sessions are all provided at a low cost.
What general advice would you give to a Defense Analyst?
Syed Rizvi PhD: The field of cybersecurity is in a constant state of evolution, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and threats. Graduates should prioritize networking within the industry, as it can provide avenues for mentorship, collaboration, and career growth. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with established professionals are effective strategies. Practical experience holds significant value in cybersecurity; thus, seeking internships, participating in cybersecurity competitions, and engaging in personal projects are recommended to hone skills and build a robust portfolio. Additionally, while technical prowess is essential, soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are equally prized. Nurturing these skills alongside technical expertise is essential for professional success.
What Defense Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Syed Rizvi PhD: Proficiency in cloud security will be increasingly vital as cloud technologies see widespread adoption. Understanding how to secure cloud environments, data, and applications will be in high demand. Furthermore, the utilization of AI and ML technologies for both offensive and defensive cybersecurity strategies underscores the need for professionals well-versed in these areas. Familiarity with compliance frameworks such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA is essential, given the evolving landscape of data privacy regulations globally. Additionally, the ability to swiftly gather, analyze, and respond to cyber threats in real-time will be paramount as threats become more sophisticated and prevalent.
What will help Defense Analysts increase their earning potential?
Syed Rizvi PhD: Acquiring certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, and CRISC can demonstrate expertise and potentially lead to higher salaries within the industry. Graduates should consider specializing in niche areas within cybersecurity, such as penetration testing, incident response, or security architecture, where demand for skilled professionals is particularly high. Pursuing leadership roles, such as team lead or manager positions, can also yield higher salaries and increased responsibility. During salary negotiations, it is crucial to research industry standards and market rates for the specific role and location. Articulating one's skills, experience, and value proposition effectively can help justify desired salary expectations.
Syed Rizvi
Professor, ChairPennsylvania State University - Altoona
Computer/Information Technology Administration And Management
What Defense Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Syed Rizvi: The field of cybersecurity is in a constant state of evolution, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and threats. Graduates should prioritize networking within the industry, as it can provide avenues for mentorship, collaboration, and career growth. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with established professionals are effective strategies. Practical experience holds significant value in cybersecurity; thus, seeking internships, participating in cybersecurity competitions, and engaging in personal projects are recommended to hone skills and build a robust portfolio. Additionally, while technical prowess is essential, soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are equally prized. Nurturing these skills alongside technical expertise is essential for professional success.
What general advice would you give to a Defense Analyst?
Syed Rizvi: Acquiring certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, and CRISC can demonstrate expertise and potentially lead to higher salaries within the industry. Graduates should consider specializing in niche areas within cybersecurity, such as penetration testing, incident response, or security architecture, where demand for skilled professionals is particularly high. Pursuing leadership roles, such as team lead or manager positions, can also yield higher salaries and increased responsibility. During salary negotiations, it is crucial to research industry standards and market rates for the specific role and location. Articulating one's skills, experience, and value proposition effectively can help justify desired salary expectations.
What will help Defense Analysts increase their earning potential?
Syed Rizvi: The field of cybersecurity is in a constant state of evolution, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and threats. Graduates should prioritize networking within the industry, as it can provide avenues for mentorship, collaboration, and career growth. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with established professionals are effective strategies. Practical experience holds significant value in cybersecurity; thus, seeking internships, participating in cybersecurity competitions, and engaging in personal projects are recommended to hone skills and build a robust portfolio. Additionally, while technical prowess is essential, soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are equally prized. Nurturing these skills alongside technical expertise is essential for professional success.
Kermit Burley M.Ed.
Program Coordinator of Information Technology and Cybersecurity Analytics and OperationsPennsylvania State University - Lehigh Valley
Curriculum And Instruction
What general advice would you give to a Defense Analyst?
Kermit Burley M.Ed.: I would tell any graduate who is just beginning their career to be certain to always give 100% effort and perhaps even just a bit more. You are doing this not only for your supervisor, but for yourself. This skill will eventually become a habit and will ultimately set you apart from your competition. Many graduates new to a job or position will frequently wait to have their supervisor tell them what to do. The truly successful graduate will always seek to solve problems and then do more than what is expected. And believe me, having been a supervisor many times in my career, this high effort person will be noticed and rewarded.
What Defense Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kermit Burley M.Ed.: In my fields of Cyber and Information Technology we truly need the abilities to be always learning and always preparing for the next great breakthrough or the next big threat. So, adaptability and a willingness to always be learning are essential for success. Of course, our greatest challenge now and certainly in the next 3-5 years will be AI. (Artificial Intelligence) It is already upon us and has the potential to revolutionize our field and the entire landscape of what we do. The ability to stay ahead of that very steep hill will require constant innovation and an ability to accurately anticipate what is coming just around the corner. What I also see is an increased need for "people" skills, the ability to lead a team of people to achieve goals and budgetary requirements. All too often graduates in Cyber and IT are stereotyped as not having any people skills at all and preferring to work alone. This stereotype must end and those graduates who possess people skills will be in great demand not only in the next 3-5 years, but for decades to come.
What will help Defense Analysts increase their earning potential?
Kermit Burley M.Ed.: In my fields of Cyber and Information Technology we truly need the abilities to be always learning and always preparing for the next great breakthrough or the next big threat. So, adaptability and a willingness to always be learning are essential for success. Of course, our greatest challenge now and certainly in the next 3-5 years will be AI. (Artificial Intelligence) It is already upon us and has the potential to revolutionize our field and the entire landscape of what we do. The ability to stay ahead of that very steep hill will require constant innovation and an ability to accurately anticipate what is coming just around the corner. What I also see is an increased need for "people" skills, the ability to lead a team of people to achieve goals and budgetary requirements. All too often graduates in Cyber and IT are stereotyped as not having any people skills at all and preferring to work alone. This stereotype must end and those graduates who possess people skills will be in great demand not only in the next 3-5 years, but for decades to come.
Louis Bobelis
Part-Time FacultyThe University of Tampa
Information and Technology Management Department
What skills stand out on Defense Analyst resumes?
Louis Bobelis: Cybersecurity is emerging as one of the hottest and most desirable job industries globally, so I feel student graduates must stick out far beyond just what their degree provides them with. As an IT-based profession, Industry Standard Certificates play a crucial role in the hiring process because it assures the individual as the basic knowledge set required to fulfill a "base-level" qualification. In the current job market, I would say it is almost mandatory to have a CompTIA Security+ in order to be competitive. SSCP, CEH, OSCP, CCSP, and CySA+ are other great options but may be more difficult for graduates.
What soft skills should all Defense Analysts possess?
Louis Bobelis: I feel the most important soft skill is character. Being outspoken and able to explain technical cyber incidents decisively and clearly for non-IT-oriented people in your organization is especially important when you are in more senior-level positions.
What skills will help Defense Analysts earn the most?
Louis Bobelis: In this industry, certificates truly do go a long way, and in some organizations, you cannot elevate or find growth without acquiring specific certifications. This is not always the case and showing your worth in your internal organization by coming up with ideas that can make the current processes more efficient is always a great way to attract promotion.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Defense Analysts?
Louis Bobelis: An ability to triage events and understand a cyber investigation process. Understand how to sandbox a file and locate IOCs (Indicators of Compromise) within the file. Knowing and understanding the MITRE Kill Chain and other Cybersecurity standards.
Dr. Steven MacMartin
Director, Associate ProfessorMedaille College
Homeland Security Program
What soft skills should all Defense Analysts possess?
Dr. Steven MacMartin: Absolutely - writing and oral presentation. A secondary skill that is helpful is academic research skills. But definitely writing skills.