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ION/UNIX/OCO Operator

X8 LLC

Posted today

Job Requirements

Columbia, MD
Top Secret/SCI CI Polygraph
Mid Level Career (5+ yrs experience)
Salary not specified
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Job Description

Interactive Operator – Tool Champion (Unix)
Columbia, Maryland


JOB DESCRIPTION
X8 is seeking an experienced UNIX-based Interactive On-Net Operator with a strong background in offensive cyber operations, red teaming, and tool testing to support the Cyber National Mission Force (CNMF). This role directly supports the CNMF/J38 and is responsible for prioritizing and evaluating tools, conducting TTP testing, and ensuring tool integration and readiness for mission operations.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned UNIX operator with hands-on experience operating in complex target environments, conducting exploit development and tool validation, and mentoring others on advanced red team tradecraft. You’ve served as a Tool Champion—advising on OE/OA, performing tool pairing, and supporting operator readiness through testing, documentation, and collaboration with developers.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
• Evaluate the configuration and effectiveness of UNIX-based capabilities, tools, and TTPs to support CNMF operational requirements.
• Conduct source code and tool analysis for troubleshooting, testing, and functional validation.
• Support the creation and testing of new offensive techniques to ensure compatibility with current frameworks and data flows.
• Assist in developing risk characterizations, JCTM pages, Tab-Es, and training documentation for UNIX operators.
• Build and operate virtual test environments to support tool integration and mission rehearsal.
• Provide operational insight for COAs, CONOPs, and OPSEC planning, based on UNIX tool performance.
• Work with NMTs to document and refine UNIX-specific CONOPs and identify opportunities to improve outcomes.
• Educate CNMF operators and EAs on new and emerging UNIX-based capabilities and how to incorporate them into mission planning.
• Collaborate with government leads and developers on test results, tool deficiencies, and corrective actions.

WHAT REQUIRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING
• 8+ years of Unix- focused Computer Network Operations experience within USCYBCERCOM, NSA, or another IC partner.
• Demonstrated Experience usingt and testing offensive UNIX tools in operational environments.
• Familiarity with testing frameworks, automated/manual test harnesses, and virtualized networks. (e.g. VMWARE, containers)
• Deep Scripting skills in Bash and Python; solid command line expertise across multiple UNIX distributions.
• Familiarity with red teaming tooling and C2 frameworks used in UNIX-based OCO missions.
• Experience working with IRA, Confluence, and agile workflows for capability development and integration.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to brief technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Prior experience as a Tool Champion or operator supporting OE/OA, tool documentation, and operator enablement.

WHAT DESIRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING
• Completed RIOT or equivalent UNIX-focused training pipeline
• Certifications such as OSCP, PNPT, or OSEP (in progress preferred)
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or related field (additional experience may substitute for education)

WHY JOIN X8?
• Influence mission-impacting decisions in cyber and national defense.
• Operate in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment with high visibility and autonomy.
• Direct impact on company trajectory and market expansion.
• Competitive salary and benefits.

MINIMUM CLEARANCE REQUIRED
• Active TS/SCI CI Poly is required.

COMPENSATION
• Competitive Salary
• Bonus potential
• 401K Match – 10%
• Paid time off – 24 PTO Days, 13 Holidays
• Medical Benefits – 100% Employee, 80% Dependent, $1000 company paid HSA Contribution
group id: 90941122
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About Us
X8 envisions, engineers, and executes the full-spectrum of cyber capabilities. Our team is composed of subject matter experts in offensive and defensive cyber operations who excel at rapid prototyping, agile development, and the use of new and emerging technologies. Our experience, expertise, and engineering skill provide our customers the original thought and sound solutions they require to achieve mission success.

X8 LLC Jobs


Job Category
IT - Security
Clearance Level
Top Secret/SCI
Employer
X8 LLC