Army MOS · IT & Cyber

17C Cyber Operations Specialist

Overview

A Cyber Operations Specialist executes effects in support of cyberspace and multidomain operations using devices, computer programs, and techniques. The specialist works with combinations of software, firmware, and hardware while performing planning, analysis, development, and remote or expeditionary operations against enemy and hostile adversary activities and capabilities.

Core Skills

  • offensive cyber operations
  • defensive cyber operations
  • network exploitation
  • malware analysis
  • scripting and automation (Python, PowerShell, Bash)
  • packet analysis
  • penetration testing techniques
  • incident response and containment
  • mission planning and targeting
  • technical reporting and documentation

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
  • Network Engineering
  • Systems Administration
  • IT Management

Training & Development

Getting Started

  • CompTIA A+ · Funded · Promotion points
  • CompTIA Network+ · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
  • CompTIA Security+ · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
  • CompTIA Linux+ · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) · Funded · Promotion points · STAR

Career Growth

  • GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) · Funded · Promotion points
  • GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA)
  • GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) · Funded · Promotion points · STAR

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

  • Information Security Engineers
  • Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.

Defense contractor jobs for 17C

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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