Chief Information Security and Emerging Technology Officer - CISO

Pierce County; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Pierce County seeks a dedicated Chief Information Security and Emerging Technology Officer to lead cybersecurity strategy, governance, and risk management across the organization. The role focuses on security architecture, hybrid cloud, incident response, privacy, and third-party risk in complex environments.

The incumbent will drive enterprise-wide programs, multi-year roadmaps, and high-performing teams, while guiding secure AI adoption and emerging technologies in partnership with executives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a closely related field.
• Seven years of progressively responsible information security experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an enterprise-wide cybersecurity program with multi-year roadmaps.
• Translate security risks into business terms for executives and stakeholders.
• Guide secure adoption of AI, automation, and emerging technologies while balancing risk and innovation.

Skills

Cybersecurity strategy

Governance

Risk management

Security architecture

Hybrid cloud

Incident response

AI risk & emerging tech

Executive communication

Vendor management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in CS/IT/Cybersecurity

Tools

NIST CSF

Job description

Learn more about the Chief Information Security and Emerging Technology Officer here. Pierce County is looking for a dedicated Chief Information Security and Emerging Technology Officer who has:

• Deep knowledge of cybersecurity strategy, governance, and risk management, including security architecture, hybrid cloud environments, incident response, cyber resilience, privacy, compliance, and third-party technology risk including SaaS and IaaS in complex organizations.
• Proven ability to develop and lead an enterprise-wide cybersecurity program, including security strategy, policies, governance, multi-year roadmaps, and high-performing teams.
• Strong understanding of AI and emerging technology risk, with the ability to guide secure adoption of AI, automation, autonomous systems, agents, citizen development, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies while balancing innovation and risk.
• Exceptional communication and partnership skills, with the ability to translate complex security risks into clear business terms, advise executives, build trust across departments, engage technical experts and vendors, and challenge decisions when necessary.

A complete classification can be found here.

Our strategic leader will focus on:

• Continuous improvement for themselves and their organizations
• Fostering a growth mindset and life-long learning
• Data-driven decision-making
• Consideration for customer perspectives and impacts
• Collaboration across large, diverse work environments
• Ensuring equity and inclusion in all facets of work
• Policy and guideline development; turning ideas into action
• Championing the streamlining processes to create positive change

Chief information Security and Emerging Technologies Officer Highlights:

• Mission and Vision:Finance & Enterprise Services stewards public resources and delivers innovative services that strengthen public trust and enable effective government. Our vision is to be a trusted partner recognized for innovation, service, and accountability.
• Enterprise Leadership:The department oversees essential countywide functions including budgeting and performance management, accounting, treasury, procurement and contracting, risk management, fleet and general services, and information technology. Through collaboration, accountability, and responsible stewardship, Finance & Enterprise Services enables departments to operate effectively and serve the public.
• Information Technology:The Information Technology Division delivers secure, reliable, and innovative technology services that power County operations. IT supports more than 3,500 employees and external partners, managing over 1,000 systems while advancing cybersecurity, data protection, modernization, and effective solutions to meet evolving needs.
• Commitment to Service and Stewardship:Finance & Enterprise Services is guided by integrity, service, accountability, stewardship, and adaptability. We lead with safety, empowerment, and collaboration, creating an environment where people can contribute, challenge ideas, continuously improve, and work together to solve complex problems and strengthen public trust.

Find out more about Finance and Enterprise services here.

• Additional education or experience, which clearly indicates the ability to perform the essential functions of this position, may substitute on a year-for-year basis.
• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a closely related field; and seven years of progressively responsible information security experience.
• Three years in a management, supervisory, or security program leadership capacity.
• A resume and a cover letter is required for consideration.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience serving as a Chief Information Security Officer, deputy CISO, or equivalent senior information security leader for a public-sector organization.
• Experience establishing or maturing an enterprise information security program using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and CIS Critical Security Controls.
• Experience with government regulatory and compliance environments such as CJIS, HIPAA, IRS Publication 1075, and PCI DSS. Experience designing and implementing cloud security architecture and leading the secure migration of on-premises infrastructure to public cloud environments, with Zero Trust and modern security operations, including SIEM, vulnerability management, and incident response.
• Experience establishing governance for the secure use of artificial intelligence, including AI risk assessment and security review of AI-enabled systems and services.
• Experience supervising technical staff, including in represented (union) environments. Professional security certification (e.g., CISSP, CISM) or equivalent demonstrated experience leading an enterprise information security program.

About Pierce County:

Pierce County is a vibrant region where career opportunities intersect with an exceptional quality of life. With stunning natural landscapes, from the shores of Puget Sound to the majestic Mt. Rainier National Park, the area offers endless outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and golfing on nationally ranked courses. Urban amenities abound as well, with thriving arts, cultural, and culinary scenes that complement the area’s natural beauty. As one of the fastest-growing counties in Washington State, Pierce County is a hub of innovation and community collaboration, making it an exciting place to grow your career and make a lasting impact. Pierce County is committed to a "Forward Together" mission that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion while tackling critical community challenges. The focus on affordable housing, reducing homelessness, expanding behavioral health services, and creating good-paying jobs ensures a high quality of life for all residents. This dedication to fostering inclusive communities, safe infrastructure, and equitable access to opportunities makes Pierce County a place where careers thrive, and individuals can make meaningful contributions to a resilient, vibrant future.