Cybersecurity Engineer - Senior

Spear AI; United States; Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited PTO

Comprehensive Health & Benefits

Professional Development

401(k) with company match

Flexible work arrangements

Performance bonuses

Mission-driven work

Growth opportunities

401(k) with company match

Hybrid/ onsite or remote options

Job summary

A growing defense contracting company in the United States is seeking an experienced cybersecurity professional to lead initiatives for AI systems operating in classified environments. This role involves designing security architectures and ensuring compliance with federal standards. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in cybersecurity and relevant certifications. This position offers unlimited PTO, competitive compensation, and opportunities to work on mission-driven projects that impact national security.

Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance with ability to obtain CI Polygraph required.
• Military experience strongly preferred.
• CISSP, CISM, CEH, or equivalent certifications.
• Deep knowledge of network security, cryptography, and secure coding practices.
• Experience with security tools such as SIEM, vulnerability scanners, and pen-testing tools.
• Understanding of AI/ML security considerations and adversarial attacks.
• AWS security experience is highly preferred.
• Military experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement security architectures for AI/ML systems in classified environments.
• Lead incident response activities and forensic analysis for AI system compromises.
• Ensure compliance with federal security standards (NIST, DoD, IC directives).
• Lead incident response activities and forensic analysis for AI system compromises.
• Implement advanced threat detection and monitoring solutions.
• Ensure compliance with federal security standards (NIST, DoD, IC directives).
• Mentor junior cybersecurity personnel and provide technical guidance.
• Coordinate with stakeholders on security requirements and risk assessments.

Skills

Network security

Cryptography

Secure coding practices

Penetration testing tools

AWS security

Adversarial attacks understanding

Security assessments

Incident response

Education

Professional certifications (CISSP, CISM, CEH)

10+ years of cybersecurity experience

Tools

SIEM

Vulnerability scanners

Penetration testing tools

AWS security

Job description

Spear AI is a growing defense contracting company dedicated to delivering cutting‑edge solutions that support our nation's security. As we expand, we’re building a culture where innovation meets mission‑critical work. We operate with a flat organizational structure that empowers every team member to make an impact, collaborate directly with leadership, and contribute to projects that matter. Whether you’re joining our Hardware, Software, or Services division, you’ll work alongside talented professionals who are committed to excellence and advancing the capabilities that keep our nation safe and secure.

Leads cybersecurity initiatives for AI systems operating in classified environments, ensuring robust protection against threats while maintaining operational effectiveness. Develops and implements comprehensive security frameworks for JWICS‑based AI applications. Opportunity to work on real‑world projects that directly impact warfighter capabilities and mission success.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement security architectures for AI/ML systems in classified environments
• Conduct security assessments and penetration testing of AI applications
• Develop security policies and procedures specific to AI/ML workloads
• Lead incident response activities and forensic analysis for AI system compromises
• Implement advanced threat detection and monitoring solutions
• Ensure compliance with federal security standards (NIST, DoD, IC directives)
• Mentor junior cybersecurity personnel and provide technical guidance
• Coordinate with stakeholders on security requirements and risk assessments

Qualifications

• 10+ years of cybersecurity experience, preferably in government/defense sectors
• Active TS/SCI clearance with ability to obtain CI Polygraph required
• Professional certifications (CISSP, CISM, CEH, or equivalent)
• Deep knowledge of network security, cryptography, and secure coding practices
• Experience with security tools (SIEM, vulnerability scanners, penetration testing tools)
• Understanding of AI/ML security considerations and adversarial attacks
• AWS security experience highly preferred but not required
• Military experience strongly preferred

What We Offer

• Unlimited PTO – Take the time you need to recharge and maintain work‑life balance
• Dedicated Sick Time – Your health and wellbeing come first
• Comprehensive Health & Benefits – Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family protected
• 11 Paid Holidays – Enjoy time off throughout the year to celebrate and spend with loved ones
• Professional Development – Educational opportunities and resources to help you grow your skills and advance your career
• Collaborative Environment – Work directly with leadership in our flat organizational structure where your ideas and contributions matter
• Mission‑Driven Work – Contribute to projects that directly support national security and make a real‑world impact
• Growth Opportunities – Join us during an exciting expansion phase where you can help shape our future

Additional Benefit Opportunities when you choose Spear AI

• 401(k) with company match
• Onsite / Remote / Flexible work arrangements or hybrid options (position dependent)
• Relocation assistance (position dependent)
• Referral bonuses
• Performance bonuses
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Technology home office setup stipend
• Professional certification reimbursement

We offer competitive compensation tailored to your experience, location, and the impact you’ll make. We’re committed to equitable pay and will share a range aligned to your level and geography during the hiring process. In accordance with state law, candidates in jurisdictions such as CA, CO, WA, NY, and others where applicable, will be provided a good‑faith salary range upon request and through the hiring process.

This is a full‑time, exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and is not eligible for overtime pay. Compensation for this position is provided on a salaried basis and is not subject to reduction based on hours worked.

At Spear AI, you’ll find more than just a job—you’ll join a mission‑driven team where your work directly contributes to national security. Our flat organizational structure means your voice matters, your ideas reach leadership, and your impact is visible. As we grow, we’re committed to building robust processes and infrastructure that support both our mission and our people. We value collaboration, continuous improvement, and the expertise each team member brings to the table. If you’re looking for a place where you can grow professionally while working on projects that truly matter, we’d love to hear from you.