Cyber and Information Systems Security Analyst/ISSO

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Retirement contributions

Health insurance

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Cyber and Information Systems Security Analyst to join our team supporting highly classified networks. You will work with ISSMs, PMs, and PSRs to design and operate secure IT solutions for classified environments, contributing to SSPs, POA&Ms, RARs, SCTMs, and CONOPs.

You will bring extensive experience with NISPOM, JSIG, ICDs, RMF, and ATO packaging using XACTA/ServiceNow/eMASS, and you will hold a DoD 8570 certification along with

Qualifications

• You meet the minimum qualifications for working with government sponsors and security policies.
• Experience with NISPOM, JSIG, ICDs, RMF and related policy requirements.
• Skilled in crafting ATO packages using XACTA, ServiceNow, or eMASS.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with ISSMs, Program Managers, System Administrators, and PSRs to develop secure IT solutions for classified environments.
• Contribute to documentation such as SSP, POA&M, RAR, SCTM, and CONOPs.
• Capture and refine program requirements for implementation within information systems.
• Audit and analyze security events; generate reports and action recommendations.
• Support configuration management through security impact analysis and due-diligence reports.
• Assist in continuous monitoring to identify and correct security non-compliance.

Skills

NISPOM knowledge

JSIG

ICDs familiarity

RMF

ATO package drafting

XACTA

ServiceNow

eMASS

DoD 8570 cert

TS/SCI+poly

Government sponsor experience

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in CS/IT/cybersecurity

Tools

XACTA

ServiceNow

eMASS

Job description

Description

Are you searching for challenging and impactful work supporting Highly Classified networks?

Are you passionate about cybersecurity operations and policy?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to apply and join our team at APL!

We are ranked as one of Computerworld's Top Places to Work in IT for 8 years running, and we are seeking a Cyber and Information Systems Security Analyst that will play an instrumental role in the design and operation of national security systems. You will join a hardworking team of Cybersecurity specialists who are passionate about supporting our Sponsor's mission needs.

As a Cyber and Information Systems Security Analyst/ISSO, you will...

• Work closely with Information Systems Security Managers (ISSMs), Program Managers, System Administrators, and Program Security Representatives (PSRs) to develop secure IT solutions for classified environments.
• Provide input into documentation such as the System Security Plan (SSP), Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M), Risk Assessment Report (RAR), Security Traceability Matrix (SCTM), and Concept of Operations (CONOPs).
• Have knowledge with capturing and refining program requirements to be effectively implemented within the information systems.
• Conduct audits and analyze reports for anomalous activity (i.e., unauthorized access, privileged actions, after‑hour use, unapproved hardware and software). Provide reports and recommend actions after conducting a preliminary review of the security events.
• Participate in configuration management activities by conducting security impact analysis and due diligence reports for security relevant changes.
• Support continuous monitoring of the networks to detect and correct areas of security non‑compliance and other risks.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have experience working with government sponsors through inspections and assessments.
• Have a strong working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), Joint Special Access Program Implementation Guide (JSIG), Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs), Risk Management Framework (RMF), and other policy requirements.
• Skilled in crafting ATO packages using tools such as XACTA, ServiceNow, eMASS, or traditional methods.
• Have experience in LatteArt, SEAR, Biscotti, ACAS, or other STE/STN requirements.
• Have a minimum of 8+ years of experience.
• Have a detailed understanding of computer operating systems, hardware, software, and security procedures.
• Can demonstrate excellent organizational and communication skills and the ability to effectively interact with managers and technical staff.
• Possess a current DoD 8570 certification (Security+, CISSP, etc.).
• Hold an active TS/SCI+poly security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Possess a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity related field.
• Have worked in or directly supporting the Department of Defense, the IC Community or other U.S. government entities.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign‑on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$290,000 Annually