Would you be OCONUS working at an Embassy/Mission overseas, or would you be CONUS working in DC or another U.S. city?

The Embassy lifestyle is a unique opportunity, and for the right person can be amazing both from a comp/benefits point of view and as a cultural experience. It can lead to a long term expat lifestyle, or it can be something you do for a few years and then settle down with some great stories to tell your kids/friends.

Also, if you want to get into real (state level actor) cyber work, you are going to need a TS/SCI. Right now a TS (without SCI) can take up to 2 years, and that's if you can find someone to sponsor you. Most contractors want folks who already have a clearance so they can get working (and therefore bill hours) as soon as possible.