Exploitation Cryptanalyst

The responsibilities of an exploitation cryptanalyst is dependent on the assigned work center and can include some subset of the following functions: - Analyzing data and technologies of various types - Formulating questions and hypotheses about the data and technologies - Testing hypotheses, usually via computer programs - Drawing conclusions from test results - Designing and developing cryptanalytic exploitation code - Managing and coordinating efforts between technical and customer organizations Given the secret science of codebreaking is unique to the Agency, specialized, tailored training will be provided.

Job Summary

NSA is a world leader in both the protection and exploitation of intelligence. NSA's mission is to collect and process foreign intelligence to answer critical questions from policy makers, our military, and our national leaders. While very few of the action movies you watch about NSA describe our protect mission, defending US critical infrastructure from attack is extremely important as well. At the end of the day, our job is to keep the Nation safe and informed about potential threats from foreign adversaries. Cryptanalysis, or codebreaking, is at the heart of NSA. Cryptanalysts monitor, collect, and process encrypted communications from foreign nations who may post a threat to the United States. We perform the cryptanalytic mission on encrypted foreign collection containing bespoke encryption algorithms and strong commercial cryptography. Additionally, cryptanalysts provide solutions to authenticate and enable computer network exploitation of the United States' foreign adversaries. Our outcomes yield the highest impact intelligence and security outcomes for NSA and the Nation. We have incredible teams made up of analysts with varying backgrounds including mathematics, data science, computer science, engineering, and statistics. If you would like use your background to be a part of the exciting organization that collects, processes, and makes encrypted information intelligible to NSA's customers, hit JOIN THE MISSION-APPLY NOW. Please Note: A copy of unofficial transcripts for all college courses must be submitted with the application in order for the application to be considered.

Qualifications

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. Degree in Mathematics, Engineering, or Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or related degree is required. For Full Performance and Senior work levels, relevant experience must include one or more of the following: cryptanalysis; programming (analytic or scientific); engineering (electrical or computer); research; mathematics; statistics; communications technologies; or analysis of data or patterns. Experience may also include providing formal instruction (college level or above) in any of the above. ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience. FULL PERFORMANCE Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree and no experience. SENIOR Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.

Competencies

The ideal candidate is someone with a desire for continual learning and strong problem-solving, analytic, and interpersonal skills who is: - Flexible - Curious - Persistent - Able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing - Able to collaborate with others - Likes challenging puzzles Specialized skills and experience in any of the following is beneficial: - Programming (low level, high level, parallel) - Software engineering - Hardware engineering - Computational science - Algorithm analysis and design - Reverse engineering - Technical project management

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule

Pay: Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position. Salary Range: $81,233 - $179,232 (Entry/Developmental, Full Performance, Senior) Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position. On the job training, internal NSA courses, and external training will be made available based on the need and experience of the selectee. Benefits: NSA offers excellent benefits to include relocation assistance, flexible work schedules, generous leave programs, paid personal fitness time, training and continuing education classes, health and life insurance, Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and a Federal retirement plan. Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).

How to apply

Apply soonest, as job postings can close earlier than stated end dates due to changes in requirements. It is important to review and note the minimum qualifications, as only those applicants who meet the required qualifications will be contacted to continue the employment process. Please populate the resume tool to showcase any relevant work experience and education related to the position and answer any applicable screening questions. Information collected will be used to determine eligibility, and failure to provide accurate information may result in disqualification for this position. A confirmation email will be sent after submission of the first application and also after any future updates to submitted applications. **Due to time sensitive communications regarding applications, please ensure your spam filters are configured to accept email from noreply@intelligencecareers.gov. For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include the following: @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com** U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. NSA is also committed to the promotion of diversity within its workforce. 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. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process where appropriate. Please visit our Diversity link for more information https://www.intelligencecareers.gov/NSA/diversity-and-inclusion.

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. 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 may be asked to submit documents verifying your eligibility.