Air Force AFSC · IT & Cyber
17SX Cyberspace Effects Operations Officer
Overview
A Cyberspace Effects Operations Officer commands a crew, manages cyberspace weapons systems, assesses intelligence, and plans and executes missions. They monitor cyber channels, advise commanders, and keep personnel and equipment ready to support systems such as combat communications, missile guidance, power grids, and rocket launches.
Minimum clearance: Top Secret
Core Skills
- cyber operations planning and execution
- offensive and defensive cyber operations oversight
- incident response leadership
- threat analysis and risk management
- command and control of cyber forces
- policy and rules of engagement interpretation
- mission assurance and continuity planning
- cross-domain coordination (space, cyber, comms)
- training and readiness management
- briefing senior leaders on cyber risk
Civilian Software & Tools
- Amazon Web Services AWS software
- Linux
- Microsoft Azure software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft PowerShell
- Python
Civilian Career Paths
- Cybersecurity
- IT Management
- Network Operations
- Project Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
- ITIL 4 Foundation
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Career Growth
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)
- CompTIA CySA+
- CompTIA SecurityX
Also Common
- CISM (Certified Information Security Manager)
- GIAC GCIH (Incident Handler)
- AWS Certified Security, Specialty
What the Work Involves
- Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs.
- Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems.
- Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.
- Perform risk assessments and execute tests of data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures.
- Modify computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, or change individual access status.
Related Occupations
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators
- Security Managers
- Compliance Managers
- Management Analysts
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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