SOC Threat Hunter / Splunk Architect (Purple Team Focus)

DarkStar Intelligence
life insurance, 401(k)
United States, Maryland, Fort Meade
Sep 23, 2025
SOC Threat Hunter / Splunk Architect (Purple Team Focus) Location: Fort Meade, MD\| Type: Full-Time \| Clearance: TS/SCI CI polygraph required Overview DarkStar Intelligence is seeking a SOC Threat Hunter / Splunk Architect to support advanced Defensive Cyber Operations. This hybrid role merges SOC engineering, threat hunting, and purple team operations. You'll help shape detection strategy, simulate adversary behavior, and respond to real-world threats supporting national security objectives at Fort Meade. Key Responsibilities Architect and tune Splunk dashboards and alerting rules to improve detection fidelity. Develop and optimize custom sensors to reduce false positives and improve SOC efficiency. Conduct threat hunting and purple team operations, including adversary simulation and detection validation. Perform digital forensics and incident response (DFIR), including evidence collection and timeline analysis. Conduct network traffic analysis, including packet inspection and anomaly detection. Collaborate with red teams to align detection capabilities with adversary tradecraft. Brief leadership on sensor performance, threat posture, and findings. Minimum Qualifications Clearance: Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph Education/Experience: Demonstrated experience in SOC engineering or threat hunting Training/Certification: Hands-on Splunk expertise (dashboards, correlation rules, alert tuning) Knowledge of digital forensics tools (e.g., X-Ways, EnCase, Volatility) and strong understanding of TCP/IP and IDS/IPS technologies. Desired Qualifications Experience with purple team operations and adversary emulation. Penetration testing certifications (e.g., OSCP, GPEN). Familiarity with MITRE ATT&CK, threat hunting methodologies, and detection frameworks. Prior support to DoD or Intelligence Community SOC environments. Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $200,000 - $250,000 annually. Final compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, internal equity, and market data. DarkStar provides a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and long-term success of our full-time employees. Additional Details Travel: Minimal Work Environment: On-site at Fort Meade, MD Security Note All applicants must be U.S. citizens and maintain eligibility for a U.S. government security clearance. About DarkStar Intelligence DarkStar Intelligence is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) committed to advancing national security through mission support and tradecraft development. We prioritize both client satisfaction and employee retention, delivering high-quality, intelligence-based solutions grounded in our "Core Four" values: Humility: We place mission success above personal recognition. Passion: We bring enthusiasm and dedication to every challenge. Agility: We adapt quickly to evolving operational needs. Ownership: We hold ourselves accountable for results and uphold the highest standards of excellence. We are mission-driven and results-oriented, striving to make our country safer through every task we undertake. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Commitment At DarkStar Intelligence LLC, we are committed to maintaining a professional and legally compliant work environment where individuals are treated with respect and fairness. We adhere strictly to all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations. Employment decisions at DarkStar are made solely on the basis of individual qualifications, performance, and business needs. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment-including hiring, compensation, promotion, training, discipline, and termination-on the basis of: Race or color, Religion, Sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), National origin, Age, Disability, Genetic information, Veteran status. Or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law Our EEO standards are embedded in all employment practices to ensure compliance, fairness, and accountability. We enforce a zero-tolerance policy for unlawful discrimination or harassment and encourage employees to report concerns without fear of retaliation. EEO Flyer: shorturl.at/abpNX Employee Benefits DarkStar Intelligence provides a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to support the health, financial stability, and personal well-being of our team members. Core Benefits for employees: Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans Income Protection: Life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan with employer contributions Work-Life Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and legal services Paid Leave: Generous PTO, 11 paid federal holidays, and one floating holiday Voluntary Benefits: Legal & Identity Protection: LegalShield and IDShield Additional Insurance: Whole life, accident, and critical care coverage We believe in recognizing and supporting the professionals who make our mission possible. Your well-being is an investment in our collective success.