Development Program (C2DP) / Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist - Entry Level (Maryland)

FORT MEADE, MDPosted 20 days ago

Job summary

• Job post source

  This job is directly from National Security Agency

• Job overview

  The Development Program (C2DP) / Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist - Entry Level at NSA is a three-year rotational program designed to develop entry to mid-level employees' skills in computer science to support national security missions.

• Responsibilities and impact

  Participants will create analytic applications, develop and debug software, design algorithms, solve cryptanalytic and network problems, and contribute to advances in computer science including cybersecurity and encryption.

• Compensation and benefits

  Salary ranges from $86,498 to $122,157 based on education and experience, with comprehensive benefits and a full-time Monday to Friday work schedule.

• Experience and skills

  Candidates must have a degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics with programming and upper-level math courses; experience in computer science, cryptanalysis, or related fields is required; programming skills in languages like C++, Java, Python, and knowledge of software development and reverse engineering tools are preferred.

• Career development

  The program offers tailored training, cohort learning, and multiple assignments across NSA directorates to build skills and experience for career grounding.

• Work environment and culture

  NSA values problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation in a secure, mission-driven environment with flexible work hours.

• Company information

  The National Security Agency is a U.S. government agency focused on foreign intelligence and cybersecurity with cutting-edge technology and scientific research.

• Team overview

  Participants rotate through multiple NSA directorates, working with diverse teams to develop expertise in cryptanalysis and computer science.

• Job location and travel

  Position is based in Maryland with a standard full-time schedule and flexible hours between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

• Application process

  Applicants must submit transcripts, meet citizenship requirements, complete security clearance, and apply through the NSA's official portal with attention to veterans' preference documentation.

• Unique job features

  This role offers unique opportunities to work on national security challenges, advanced cryptanalytic problems, and high-performance computing projects using state-of-the-art tools and methodologies.

Company overview

The National Security Agency (NSA) is a U.S. government agency responsible for global monitoring, collection, and processing of information and data for foreign and domestic intelligence and counterintelligence purposes. It operates under the Department of Defense and primarily focuses on signals intelligence (SIGINT) and information assurance. Established in 1952 by President Harry S. Truman, the NSA has played a critical role in national security, particularly in the realms of cryptography and cybersecurity. The agency generates revenue through government funding and contracts, and it has been involved in significant historical events, including the Cold War and the post-9/11 era, shaping its evolution and operational strategies.

How to land this job

• Tailor your resume to emphasize your strong foundation in computer science, mathematics (especially upper-level courses like calculus), and programming skills relevant to cryptanalysis and computer network operations.

• Highlight your experience or coursework in algorithm design, software development, debugging, and any exposure to cybersecurity, cryptanalysis, or high-performance computing to align with NSA's technical challenges.

• Apply through multiple platforms including the NSA's official careers website (intelligencecareers.gov) and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and ensure you meet all submission requirements such as attaching transcripts.

• Connect with current NSA employees in the Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist or related divisions on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on recent NSA technological advancements, asking about rotational program experiences, or expressing enthusiasm for NSA’s mission to protect national security.

• Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'cryptanalysis,' 'algorithm development,' 'software debugging,' 'cybersecurity,' and 'high-performance computing' to pass initial screening filters.

• Utilize Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored resume submissions, find multiple application portals, and identify relevant LinkedIn contacts, allowing you to focus your time on interview preparation and networking.