Application Security (AppSec) Specialist
We are seeking an Application Security Specialist to integrate security throughout the software development lifecycle, implementing secure coding practices, managing static/dynamic application security testing, and conducting software composition analysis to ensure robust application security across our development portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
Secure Development Lifecycle Integration
- Integrate security controls and checkpoints throughout the SDLC from design to deployment
- Collaborate with development teams to implement security requirements and threat modeling practices
- Establish secure coding standards, guidelines, and security review processes
- Configure automated security testing in CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps workflows
- Conduct security architecture reviews and design consultations for new applications
Static & Dynamic Application Security Testing
- Deploy and manage SAST tools (SonarQube, Veracode, Checkmarx, Fortify) for source code analysis
- Implement DAST solutions (OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, Rapid7) for runtime vulnerability detection
- Configure interactive application security testing (IAST) for real-time vulnerability identification
- Analyze scan results, triage findings, and prioritize remediation based on risk assessment
- Develop custom security rules and policies for application-specific security requirements
Software Composition Analysis
- Implement SCA tools (Snyk, Black Duck, WhiteSource) to identify vulnerable third-party components
- Monitor open source libraries and dependencies for known vulnerabilities and license compliance
- Establish policies for acceptable third-party components and dependency management
- Automate vulnerability scanning for container images and package repositories
- Create remediation workflows for outdated or vulnerable dependencies
Security Training & Consultation
- Provide secure coding training and security awareness programs for development teams
- Conduct code reviews and security consultations for critical applications
- Develop application security documentation, best practices, and remediation guidance
- Support incident response for application security breaches and vulnerability disclosures
- Mentor developers on security testing tools and defensive programming techniques
Required Qualifications
Technical Skills
- 6+ years experience in application security and secure software development
- Expert knowledge of SAST/DAST tools and application security testing methodologies
- Strong programming skills in multiple languages (Java, .NET, Python, JavaScript, Go)
- Experience with SCA tools and open source vulnerability management
- Understanding of web application security (OWASP Top 10, API security, authentication/authorization)
- Proficiency in security testing frameworks and penetration testing techniques
Development Skills
- Experience integrating security tools into CI/CD pipelines and automated workflows
- Knowledge of secure coding practices and common vulnerability patterns
- Understanding of cloud-native application security and containerized application testing
- Experience with threat modeling methodologies and security architecture principles
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field
- Security certifications (CISSP, CSSLP, CEH, GWEB, OSCP)
- Experience with DevSecOps practices and security automation frameworks
- Background in penetration testing and manual application security assessments
- Knowledge of compliance frameworks (PCI-DSS, HIPAA, SOX) for application security