<p><strong>Cybersecurity Test &amp; Evaluation Engineer (FIPS / Cryptography)</strong></p><p><strong>Employment Type:</strong> 6 month contract, Potential for Extension or Conversion </p><p><strong>Location:</strong> Columbia, MD (preferred) | Onsite/Hybrid as applicable</p><p><strong>Position Overview</strong></p><p>We are seeking a <strong>Cybersecurity Test &amp; Evaluation Engineer</strong> to support accredited testing and evaluation efforts aligned with <strong>FIPS 140 and Common Criteria standards</strong>. This role provides the opportunity to work in a hands-on lab environment, performing security testing and validation on products designed to support secure communications in highly regulated and mission-critical environments.</p><p>This position is ideal for individuals with a strong foundation in <strong>cryptography, security testing, and software development</strong>, who are interested in working across a variety of technologies and contributing to high-impact security initiatives.</p><p><strong>Key Responsibilities</strong></p><ul><li>Support <strong>FIPS 140 validation projects</strong> and related evaluation efforts</li><li>Perform <strong>security analysis</strong>, vulnerability testing, and system-level assessments</li><li>Conduct <strong>cryptographic and PKI testing</strong>, including algorithm validation</li><li>Evaluate products against <strong>established security standards and technology requirements</strong></li><li>Execute <strong>physical security testing</strong> and architecture-level design analysis</li><li>Perform <strong>source code reviews</strong> to identify vulnerabilities and compliance gaps</li><li>Develop and execute <strong>test cases and automation scripts</strong></li><li>Build and maintain <strong>test environments</strong> and supporting tools</li><li>Document and deliver <strong>technical reports and findings</strong></li><li>Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support testing, validation, and documentation processes</li></ul>

<p><strong>Required Qualifications</strong></p><ul><li>Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field</li><li>2–4 years of relevant experience in cybersecurity, software development, or testing</li><li>Cryptographic Validation Program (CVP) Certification (or equivalent experience)</li><li>Strong knowledge of <strong>cryptographic algorithms</strong>, including encryption, hashing, key exchange, and PKI</li><li>Experience with programming languages such as <strong>C, C++, Python, or Java</strong></li><li>Understanding of <strong>networking fundamentals</strong>, including routing and subnetting</li><li>Knowledge of <strong>security protocols</strong> (e.g., SSH, IPsec, TLS)</li><li>Experience building test environments, executing tests, and producing technical documentation</li><li>Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills</li><li>Ability to interpret and apply <strong>security standards and compliance requirements</strong></li></ul><p>•<strong>Preferred Qualifications</strong></p><ul><li>Experience with <strong>Python development and scripting</strong></li><li>Familiarity with debugging tools (e.g., adb, WinDBG, Visual Studio)</li><li>Knowledge of <strong>entropy analysis and random number generation</strong></li><li>Experience with <strong>OpenSSL, OpenPGP, or X.509 certificate validation</strong></li><li>Exposure to <strong>vulnerability analysis or penetration testing</strong></li><li>Knowledge of <strong>Active Directory and Linux environments</strong></li><li>Experience with networking certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP, JNCIA, etc.)</li><li>Hands-on experience with lab instrumentation (e.g., oscilloscope, signal generator)</li><li>Strong written and verbal communication skills</li></ul><p> <strong>Core Competencies</strong></p><ul><li>Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality</li><li>Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively</li><li>Collaborative approach with the ability to work across technical teams</li><li>Continuous learning mindset and interest in emerging security technologies</li></ul><p><strong>What You’ll Gain</strong></p><ul><li>Hands-on experience with <strong>security testing and validation standards (FIPS, Common Criteria)</strong></li><li>Exposure to a wide range of <strong>commercial and emerging technologies</strong></li><li>Opportunity to work in a <strong>collaborative, knowledge-sharing environment</strong></li><li>Experience contributing to <strong>high-impact cybersecurity initiatives</strong></li></ul>

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