Information System Security Engineer (ISSE)

Leidos; United States; On-site; USD 108,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos is seeking an Information System Security Engineer (ISSE) to lead secure IT system design and implementation at Stennis Space Center, MS. You will collaborate with engineers to embed robust security controls and support RMF-based authorization throughout the lifecycle.

The role requires a TS/SCI clearance, willingness to travel extensively, and a track record in security engineering and documentation for ATOs. Leidos offers challenging assignments and a mission‑focused culture.

Qualifications

• BS degree with 8–12 years of relevant experience.
• Active TS/SCI clearance required.
• Experience combining system administration with information assurance.
• Proficient with STIGs and SCAP tools for compliance.
• Deep understanding of Navy RMF process.
• Certifications: Security+, CISSP, CISM, CAP, ISSEP.

Responsibilities

• Perform and review technical security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and ensure IA standards compliance.
• Validate and verify system security requirements and designs, integrating security capabilities.
• Build cybersecurity into systems deployed to operational environments with uniform policy application.
• Assess and mitigate security threats throughout the program life cycle with risk management.
• Support system security authorization activities per RMF standards and government policies.
• Create and maintain documentation for Authority to Operate (ATO) and evidence for extensions.
• Identify and manage configuration changes; implement controls using STIGs/SCAP.

Skills

Hybrid role experience

ISSE/ISSM/ISSO

ATO documentation

STIGs/SCAP

RMF process

Security+ CISSP CISM CAP ISSEP

US citizenship

Willing to travel

Education

BS degree

Job description

Description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Are you ready for your next challenge?

Leidos Undersea Systems Division (USD) is seeking a proactive and experienced Information System Security Engineer (ISSE) to serve as the subject matter expert for critical IT systems at Stennis Space Center, MS. The primary focus of this position is to design, develop, and implement secure information systems. The ISSE collaborates with engineers and developers to integrate robust security measures into systems, ensuring they are resilient against threats and vulnerabilities. This role requires a deep understanding of security engineering principles and a proactive approach to risk management throughout the system lifecycle. The successful candidate will be a self-starter, comfortable with extensive travel, and capable of thriving in dynamic and physically demanding environments.

THE CHALLENGE (primary responsibilities)

• Perform and review technical security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with information assurance (IA) standards and regulations.

• Validate and verify system security requirements, establish system security designs, and integrate system security capabilities for various environments.

• Build cybersecurity into systems deployed to operational environments, ensuring uniform application of security policies and enterprise solutions.

• Assess and mitigate system security threats and risks throughout the program life cycle, contributing to security planning, assessment, risk analysis, and risk management.

• Apply system security engineering expertise in areas such as system security design, life cycle, risk management, and security testing, using industry system security engineering methodologies.

• Enforce the design and implementation of trusted relations among external systems and architectures and manage changes to systems while assessing security impact.

• Support security authorization activities in accordance with Government regulations, Department of Defense and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Risk Management Framework (RMF) standards, and customer-specific information security policies, processes, and procedures.

• Create, manage, and maintain all necessary documentation required to obtain and maintain a system's Authority to Operate (ATO). Ensure all evidence is accurately captured for ATO requests and extensions.

• Identify, track, and manage all configuration changes. Implement and validate system security controls using Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and the Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) to ensure compliance.

• Conduct field maintenance and system grooming to ensure optimal performance. Assist with installations and testing as needed.

WHAT SETS YOU APART (basic qualifications)

• BS degree and 8 - 12 years of prior relevant experience

• Must have an active TS/SCI clearance.

• Proven experience in a hybrid role combining system administration with information assurance.

• Demonstrated experience as an ISSE/ISSM/ISSO/SCA.

• Experience creating documentation to obtain and maintain an ATO.

• Proficiency with STIGs and SCAP tools for configuration tracking and compliance.

• Deep understanding of the Navy Risk Management Framework (RMF) process.

• Comfortable working on multiple systems and components simultaneously in various configurations.

• Holds one or more of the following certifications: Security+, CISSP, CISM, CAP, ISSEP.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex IA concepts for various audiences.

• Must be a US citizen.

• Must possess a valid US passport and be willing to travel extensively.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This role requires a significant commitment to travel and the ability to work in non-traditional office settings. The candidate must be able and willing to meet the following physical requirements:

• Extensive travel of up to 12 separate, week-long trips annually (approximately 6 OCONUS and 6 CONUS).

• Requires movement around piers, docks, and industrial facility spaces. Ability to climb ladders up to 20 ft.

• Required to transport or lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Constant use of hands and fingers is required to operate tools and computer equipment.

• Must be able to move about various workspaces, stoop, kneel, or reach for extended periods.

• Able and willing to work aboard marine vessels of various sizes, which may include overnight stays.

We are looking for a dedicated professional to join our Leidos team and make an immediate impact. If you are a skilled ISSE who is ready for a challenging and rewarding opportunity, we encourage you to apply.

Original Posting

June 4, 2026

Pay Range

Pay Range $107,900.00 - $195,050.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.