IDP Contractor Program Security Officer

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking a Security Specialist in Wichita, KS to manage security operations for classified government programs. This on-site position requires a high school diploma and three years of relevant experience, ensuring compliance and safeguarding sensitive information.

Key responsibilities include overseeing access control, conducting security briefings, and documenting incidents. Ideal candidates possess strong communication and organizational skills, with thorough knowledge of security standards.

Qualifications

• 3 years of experience in industrial security, SAP security, or related discipline.
• Thorough knowledge of NISPOM and ICD security standards.
• Ability to work independently and handle details responsibly.

Responsibilities

• Manage personnel clearances, visitor control, and access eligibility.
• Conduct briefings, debriefings, and training.
• Develop and maintain security documentation and incident reports.

Skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Security systems and databases (DISS, NISS, JADE)

Job description

Department: Division of Industry and Defense Programs

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Typically, 8am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. May require occasional after hours support for inspections, audits, or classified operations. The job is performed in person and on-site in Wichita, KS.

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a \"U.S. Citizen\".

Job Details

Join our Division of Industry and Defense Programs as a Security Specialist and play a key role in supporting classified government projects, including Special Access Programs (SAP). In this on‑site position based in Wichita, KS, you’ll manage day‑to‑day security operations, ensure compliance with federal requirements, and help safeguard personnel, facilities, and sensitive information. This role is ideal for security professionals who thrive in fast‑paced, mission‑driven environments and want to make an impact on national defense programs.

Job Summary

Manages day to day security operations for classified government programs including but not limited to Special Access Programs (SAP). Ensures full compliance with federal rules, security directives, program specific requirements, and customer direction. Safeguards personnel, facilities, and sensitive information while serving as a key liaison between internal stakeholders and government security counterparts.

Essential Functions

Manages personnel clearances, visit requests, visitor control, access eligibility, and program access; processes and tracks Program Access Requests (PARs).

Conducts briefings, debriefings, indoctrination and training, and provides guidance to internal and external partners.

Oversees and maintains access control process and procedures.

Ensures proper security equipment operation, including inspections, accreditation readiness and compliance.

Develops and maintains documentation in accordance with program requirements and manages the marking, transmission, storage, reproduction, and destruction of relevant materials.

Documents and reports security incidents, infractions, and violations; recommends and implements corrective actions and mitigation strategies and supports program protection planning and threat awareness initiatives.

Serves as the primary interface with Government Program Security Officers (PSOs) and customer security representatives.

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Three (3) years of experience in industrial security, SAP security, or related discipline.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of NISPOM (32 CFR Part 117), DoDM 5205.07 (SAP Security Manuals), and ICD security standards.
• Experience with security systems and databases such as DISS, NISS, JADE, or similar.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with high attention to detail and accountability.
• Excellent documentation, coordination, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with attention to detail and compliance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.
• Prior experience supporting SAP, or DoD classified programs.
• Experience developing SOPs, security training, or leading inspections.
• Familiarity with secure facility operations (SAPF/SCIF build, accreditation, TEMPEST considerations).

Preferred License/Certifications/Training

• Active or previous U.S. Government security clearance.

Physical Requirements

Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.

Ability to move or traverse across campus, within buildings and offices, and/or across external environments.

Ability to remain in a stationary position.

Ability to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially, both receptively and expressively.

Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators.