Research & Development Specialist

Research & Development Specialist

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

CNF Technologies is seeking a Research and Development Specialist to conduct software systems research. The role involves performing comprehensive technology research to identify and evaluate potential vulnerabilities in cyberspace systems, conceptualizing and prototyping secure technologies, and advancing solutions to meet mission-critical requirements in support of national defense objectives. Ideal candidates will possess strong expertise in systems development, cybersecurity principles, and emerging technologies.

MINIMUM / GENERAL EXPERIENCE:

• Experience conducting applied research in cybersecurity, emerging technologies, or software systems to identify vulnerabilities and develop mitigations.
• Ability to perform technology assessments, conceptualize secure systems, and ensure cybersecurity principles are embedded throughout the development lifecycle.
• Background in analyzing cyberspace threats, vulnerabilities, or emerging trends to inform the development of new defensive or offensive cyber capabilities.
• Familiarity with full-stack development, systems integration, or R&D environments supporting national security, defense, or DoD-related missions.
• Experience in technical R&D, engineering, or cybersecurity development role.

FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY:

• Conduct comprehensive technology research to identify and evaluate potential vulnerabilities in cyberspace systems, including perimeter, cloud-based, and cyber-physical environments.
• Conceptualize, design, develop, and prototype secure technology systems and solutions with cybersecurity fully integrated from inception through the systems development lifecycle.
• Perform software and systems engineering activities to create and advance new capabilities that address mission needs while embedding secure-by-design principles.
• Analyze emerging technologies, threats, and trends to inform the development of innovative defensive or resilient cyber solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to translate operational requirements into secure technical concepts, prototypes, and testable implementations.
• Evaluate the security implications of software configurations, system architectures, and procurement options to mitigate risks in new developments.
• Document research findings, prototype designs, test results, and vulnerability assessments to support transition to production or operational use.
• Contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies in support of national defense and cyberspace mission objectives.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Active TOP SECRET/SCI clearance with Counterintelligence (CI) Polygraph required.
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, or related technical field is desired but not required.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Ability to work in a secure facility and willingness to undergo CI polygraph examinations and background investigations in compliance with all DoD policies and operational security standards.
• Must comply with DoD Manual 8140.03 requirements for the Research and Development Specialist (DCWF Work Role 661).

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Junior Research and Development Specialist:
• 0-3 years assisting in research projects, conducting basic vulnerability scans/analysis on emerging tech under guidance, contributing to secure development tasks in a team setting, or completing structured R&D-related duties.
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related STEM field.
• Intermediate Research and Development Specialist:
• 3-10 years leading portions of vulnerability research on emerging technologies, independently prototyping cyber capabilities with security integrated, performing in-depth analysis of systems for cyber risks, collaborating across teams on R&D efforts, or applying secure engineering in non-routine projects.
• Security+ certification.
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related STEM field.
• Senior Research and Development Specialist:
• 10+ years directing complex R&D projects to identify/develop cyber capabilities or vulnerabilities, mentoring teams on secure systems engineering, providing expert assessments of emerging tech cybersecurity implications, innovating new secure solutions with minimal oversight, or publishing/contributing to cyber research advancements.
• SecurityX / CASP+, RCCE Level 1, CEH, and CGLD certifications desired.
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related STEM field.

LOCATION:

Ft. Meade, MD