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14 September 2014

NSA Advertising for Recruits Wanting to Be Computer Network Operations (CNO) Specialists (i.e. Computer Hackers)


September 11, 2014

The National Security Agency (NSA) posted this “help wanted” advert online yesterday:

Computer Network Operations (CNO) - Operator

National Security Agency - Fort Meade, MD

Responsibilities

Our nation has entered a new era that brings profound changes to the way the National Security Agency conducts its mission. The explosion of the World Wide Web has created a need for the Computer Network Operations (CNO) mission. This very important mission is composed of the following major parts: network defense and computer network exploitation. In order to carry out these functions NSA is looking for people who are highly skilled and impassioned about winning the war in cyberspace. These are NOT your average Computer Science or Engineering jobs!

Operators support the operations and intelligence collection capabilities conducted through the use of computer networks to gather data from target or adversary automated information systems or networks. As an operator, you will use advanced software applications for network navigation, tactical forensic analysis, and collection of valuable intelligence information.

Qualifications

You should have broad expertise with multiple operating systems and a strong networking background to include network security devices. If you routinely visit network security websites, attend conferences, or maintain your own network we would like to talk to you! If you’re a “gamer”, enjoy watching “The Big Bang Theory”, love the Black Hat Briefings and Capture the Flag events, then you need to talk to us. Can you successfully “smash the stack?” If so, we are looking for you. Applicants should also have knowledge and experience in:

1. Understanding of networking concepts, protocols, and implementations. (e.g. TCP/IP, routing, DNS, etc)

2. Understanding of operating system concepts in both Windows and Solaris/Linux. (e.g. processes and threads, file systems, memory, etc)

3. Proficiency with Windows and Solaris/Linux Command-line tools.

4. Proficiency with system administration on Windows and Solaris/Linux systems.

5. Hands-on experience managing, maintaining, troubleshooting, installing, and operating common operating systems and basic network infrastructure.

6. Understanding of and ability to describe current network technologies. (e.g. routers, switches, firewalls, etc)

7. Experience with structured programming and scripting.

8. Understanding of common security solutions and their implementations (e.g. firewalls, intrusion detection systems, virus detection tools, etc)


This fast paced critical position requires someone with solid decision making skills, ability to react quickly, and technical :

Technical Competencies:

Operating system and network analysis

Operating system administration (Windows and Unix/linux)

Intrusion detection and response

Penetration testing

Packet analysis

Computer and network forensics

Low level protocol analysis

Network administration

Vulnerability Analysis

Malicious code analysis
General Competencies:

Critical Thinking

Problem Solving

Entry is with a High School diploma and 4 years of experience, or an Associate’s degree and 3 years of experience, or a Bachelor’s degree and no experience.

With no experience, degree must be in Computer Science or related field (e.g., Telecommunications, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Forensics, Cyber Security, IT, or Information Systems)

Experience in network and system administration, IT support, infrastructure support, programming, field engineering, telecommunications, vulnerability analysis, penetration testing, computer forensics, cyber security, or related experience.

Experience with military training in a relevant area such as JCAC, DNA, etc.
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Networking/Telecommunications is preferred.

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
SALARY RANGE: $45,473 - $98,305
Successful candidates will receive a specific offer based upon their skills and educational background.

TRAINING: Applicants selected for this position attend a rigorous 6-month training program taught at the master’s level. Upon successful completion of the entire course, students earn 15 master-level credits from Eastern Michigan University in the Offensive Computer Security concentration. The 6-month training program is taught on a Monday thru Friday day schedule and requires after hours study. In addition, Management strongly supports continuing education and career development opportunities.

DUTY SCHEDULE: This office participates in the Alternate Work Schedule. This position requires shift work. The shift schedule is determined during the 12th week of training. Discussions are had with participants to fit schedule with home/life necessities.
How To Apply - External

To apply for this position, please visit http://www.NSA.gov/careers and click the ‘Job Search/Apply Now’ button located at the top left of your screen. Search the job posting, Computer Network Operations (CNO) Operator, job # 1049732, and click the job to apply. After completing the application and clicking the ‘Submit Final’ button, you will receive a confirmation email. Emails regarding your application status will be sent periodically. Please ensure your spam filters are configured to accept emails from noreply@nsa.gov.
***PLEASE NOTE:

U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. Reasonable accommodations provided to applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process where appropriate. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph.

This position is a Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS) position in the Excepted Service under 10 U.S.C. 1601. DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans’ Preference to eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans’ preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you must submit documents verifying your eligibility with your application package.

DCIPS Disclaimer

The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the DoD Intelligence Community Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions in the NSA are in the Excepted Services under 10 United States Codes (USC) 1601 appointment authority.

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