Cyber Security Systems Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; Virginia, Great Falls Crossing (MN, VA); On-site; USD 76,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in cybersecurity is seeking a Cyber Systems Security Engineer to enhance the security of classified networks. This full-time role involves developing security plans, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with various regulations. Ideal candidates will possess a strong analytical mindset, effective communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Join a dynamic team that values proactive security measures and offers opportunities for growth and development in a supportive environment. If you're passionate about cybersecurity and ready to make a difference, this position is for you.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of related experience in cybersecurity or equivalent.
• Experience developing security plans and conducting risk assessments.

Responsibilities

• Develop security plans and compliance documentation.
• Conduct risk assessments and vulnerability scanning.

Skills

Active TS/SCI security clearance with Counter-Intelligence polygraph

Assessment and Authorization using RMF

Knowledge of NIST 800-53, ICD 503, DoD directives

Operational experience with security/log auditing

Developing security plans and continuous monitoring

Leadership qualities

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organizational abilities

Education

Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, IT, or Computer Science

Higher-level education or experience

Tools

Nessus

ACAS

SCC

Cisco devices

SIEM tools like Splunk or ELK

VMWare

DISA STIGs

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or students) should log in to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State students (not previously employed by the university) seeking employment should log in to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Applicants not currently employed or enrolled should click "Apply" and complete the external application process.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS:

The Cyber and Information Security Division at Penn State's Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking a Cyber Systems Security Engineer (CSSE) to support information security for our classified networks. The team focuses on proactive security measures, risk assessment, and compliance to protect ARL's networks and systems. Ideal candidates are problem-solvers, effective communicators, and team players who can work independently or collaboratively.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and encourages transitioning military members to apply.

Responsibilities include:

• Developing and submitting security plans, test and evaluation plans, certification and accreditation packages, and plans of action and milestones for compliance.
• Conducting risk assessments of information systems across various environments.
• Reviewing systems and networks to identify deviations from configurations and policies.
• Developing training materials related to compliance and audits.
• Performing technical tasks such as vulnerability scanning, log review, network analysis, security configuration review, and incident response as needed.

Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor's degree or higher plus three years of related experience or an equivalent combination. Higher-level positions require additional experience or education.

Required skills and experience:

• Active TS/SCI security clearance with Counter-Intelligence polygraph.
• Experience with Assessment and Authorization using RMF.
• Knowledge of NIST 800-53, ICD 503, DoD directives, and regulations.
• Operational experience with security/log auditing.
• Experience developing security plans and continuous monitoring.
• Certifications such as Security+ and CISSP are preferred.
• Leadership qualities, analytical and communication skills, and organizational abilities.

Preferred skills:

• Bachelor's in Cybersecurity, IT, or Computer Science.
• Experience with vulnerability scanning tools like Nessus, ACAS, SCC.
• Knowledge of Windows/UNIX/Linux security configurations.
• Experience with network infrastructure, Cisco devices, SIEM tools like Splunk or ELK, VMWare, policy development, and DISA STIGs.

This is a full-time onsite position in Reston, VA, with occasional travel. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and pass a security investigation and pre-employment drug screen. For more information, visit www.arl.psu.edu.

Note: Salary may vary based on geographic location.

Salary range: $76,700 - $129,500.

Campus Security and Equal Opportunity:

Penn State publishes an annual security report and is an equal opportunity employer. Background checks are required for employment. For accommodations due to disability, contact 814-865-1473.