Cybersecurity Lead - Architecture & RMF

Peraton; Kansas; Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense and technology firm is seeking a Cybersecurity Lead responsible for driving the security vision across program activities. This role emphasizes leading the design and implementation of security architectures within a high-tempo environment. Candidates should have extensive experience in cybersecurity, specifically with DoD compliance and risk management frameworks. The position requires a Bachelor’s degree alongside a minimum of 10 years experience. Top-Secret/SCI clearance is mandatory. Join the team and contribute to securing vital space operations and technology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 12+ years or Master's with 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Requires minimum Top-Secret/SCI clearance.
• 10+ years of cybersecurity experience in security architecture and DoD compliance.
• Experience with NIST controls and DoD security directives.
• DoD 8570/8140 IAM Level III certification (CISSP, CISM, or equivalent).

Responsibilities

• Lead design of security architectures with defense-in-depth and Zero Trust principles.
• Implement security controls across network, endpoint, and data protection.
• Oversee security assessments and manage remediation efforts.
• Guide secure DevSecOps practices and security testing procedures.

Skills

Cybersecurity expertise

Security architecture design

DoD compliance

Risk Management Framework (RMF)

Zero Trust principles

Education

Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree

Tools

Assessment tools

Job description

Required Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree with 12+years of relevant experience; OR a Master’s degree with 10+ years of relevant experience. Additional four (4) years experience may be considered in lieu of a degree
• This position requires the candidate possess a minimum of Top-Secret/SCI clearance. The candidate must maintain the clearance.
• 10+ years of cybersecurity experience with expertise in security architecture and DoD compliance.
• Experience designing security solutions for complex DoD or Intelligence Community systems.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Authority to Operate (ATO) processes.
• Understanding of NIST controls, DISA STIGs, and DoD security directives.
• Experience implementing Zero Trust principles.
• DoD 8570/8140 IAM Level III certification (e.g., CISSP, CISM, or equivalent).
• Experience supporting secure environments with additional security requirements.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with security technologies and assessment tools.
• Experience supporting space-ground system programs within Space Systems Command or similar organizations.
• Experience with satellite ground systems, satellite operations centers (SOCs), cybersecurity accreditation, and cloud architectures.
• Advanced degree in STEM or management-related field.

The Hybrid Architecture and Development for Experimental Systems (HADES) program is an exciting and cutting-edge initiative led by the U.S. Space Force, offering a unique opportunity to work on the forefront of space operations and technology. HADES focuses on the development, integration, and sustainment of prototype and operational satellite ground systems, satellite operations centers (SOCs), and critical support services. This program plays a vital role in supporting the Research and Development Space and Missile Operations (RDSMO) Ground System Enterprise (GSE) and is headquartered at the Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) Support Complex (RSC) at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

As the Cybersecurity Lead, you’ll drive the technical security vision and execution across program activities, supporting security architecture, engineering, and compliance for mission-critical satellite ground systems. You will lead efforts to design, implement, and maintain secure systems aligned with DoD and Space Force requirements while supporting accreditation and regulatory compliance. This is a high-tempo, mission-critical environment where your work will directly contribute to protecting critical space assets and communications infrastructure.

This is more than just a job—it’s a chance to be part of a team that is shaping the future of space operations. If you’re ready to take on challenging, meaningful work in a secure and scalable environment, we want to hear from you. Join us in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space technology and operations!

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of security architectures incorporating defense-in-depth and Zero Trust principles.
• Direct implementation of security controls across network, endpoint, and data protection domains.
• Lead security technology evaluation, integration, and automation initiatives.
• Guide secure DevSecOps practices and security testing procedures.
• Provide technical leadership for security operations and incident response activities.
• Lead the Authority to Operate (ATO) process and implementation of security controls in alignment with NIST and DoD requirements.
• Oversee security assessments and manage Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M) remediation efforts.
• Ensure proper use of enterprise mission assurance tools and maintain knowledge of applicable security frameworks.
• Serve as the technical security liaison with Government stakeholders.

***This position is contingent upon award of contract***