Information Systems Security Officer

Spear AI; Washington; On-site; USD 180,000 - 270,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company match

Relocation assistance

Performance bonuses

Life insurance and disability coverage

Professional certification reimburse

Job summary

Spear AI is seeking an Information Systems Security Officer to provide senior cybersecurity leadership across program information systems, serving as the SME on security policy, risk management, and compliance within the Intelligence Community.

You will oversee RMF across multiple systems, ensure ATOs are achieved, develop and enforce policies, and advise leadership on cyber risks, with a focus on JWICS or similar classified networks and mission-driven environments.

Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance with ability to obtain polygraph.
• Expert in NIST RMF, ICD 503, CNSSI 1253 and IC/DoW security policies.
• Proven success obtaining ATOs for multi-system classified environments.
• Strong background in security architecture, risk management, and incident response in JWICS or similar networks.
• Experience leading security teams in fast-paced, mission-driven environments.
• Must have CISSP; CISM/CAP/CASP+ strongly preferred; DoW 8570 IAM Level III compliance required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as senior security authority for program information systems and oversee ISSOs.
• Lead RMF across multiple systems to achieve and maintain ATOs.
• Develop and enforce information security policies and standards.
• Advise leadership on cybersecurity risks and mitigation strategies.
• Oversee continuous monitoring, vulnerability management, and security assessments.
• Lead incident response and after-action reporting for classified systems.
• Mentor ISSO personnel and coordinate with IC/DoW stakeholders.
• Ensure security architecture aligns with ICD 503, CNSSI 1253, and NIST SP 800-53.
• Evaluate emerging threats and drive improvements in AI/ML and data platforms.
• Support audits, inspections, and reviews by government authorities.

Skills

TS/SCI clearance

Polygraph

NIST RMF

ICD 503/CNSSI 1253

ATO management

Security architecture

Incident response

JWICS

Team leadership

CISSP

CISM

CAP

CASP+

DoW IAM III

Job description

We are seeking an Information Systems Security Officer to provide senior-level cybersecurity leadership and oversight across all information systems supporting the program, serving as the authoritative subject matter expert on security policy, risk management, and compliance within the Intelligence Community.

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.

Spear AI builds sonobuoy sensors that are deployed into the water and collect edge data. We also work with the U.S. Navy to collect and process their SONAR data. You’ll have an opportunity to work on real-world projects that directly impact warfighter capabilities and mission success.

What you’ll do

We’re a small team wearing many hats, and you’d have a wide variety of responsibilities that include:

• Serve as the senior security authority for all program information systems, providing oversight to ISSOs and security staff

• Lead and manage the Risk Management Framework (RMF) process across multiple systems, ensuring ATOs are achieved and maintained in compliance with ICD 503 and NIST standards

• Develop, implement, and enforce information security policies, procedures, and standards tailored to IC operational environments

• Advise program leadership and the Authorizing Official (AO) on cybersecurity risks, mitigation strategies, and residual risk acceptance

• Oversee continuous monitoring programs, security control assessments, and vulnerability management activities

• Lead incident response, forensic investigations, and after-action reporting for security events affecting classified systems

• Manage and mentor ISSO personnel, establishing clear responsibilities and security workflows

• Coordinate with IC and DoW security stakeholders, including IGs, inspectors, and oversight bodies

• Ensure security architecture and engineering decisions align with mission requirements and applicable directives (ICD 503, CNSSI 1253, NIST SP 800-53)

• Evaluate emerging threats and drive proactive security improvements across AI/ML and data platforms

• Support audits, inspections, and reviews by government oversight authorities

Important Skills

• Active TS/SCI required; must be able to obtain a Polygraph.

• Deep expertise in NIST RMF, ICD 503, CNSSI 1253, and IC/DoW security policy frameworks

• Demonstrated experience achieving and maintaining ATOs for complex, multi-system programs in classified environments

• Strong background in security architecture, risk management, and incident response within JWICS or similar classified networks

• Experience leading and mentoring security teams in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment

• Professional certifications required: CISSP; CISM, CAP, or CASP+ strongly preferred

• DoW 8570/8140 IAM Level III compliance required

Nice to have

• Experience with AI/ML system security considerations

• AWS GovCloud or Azure Government security experience

• Military Intelligence or IC experience

Why work with us

• We ship — We don’t work on 18-month projects that are irrelevant before they’re even finished.

• Our work has impact — We build products that are deployed to U.S. submarines and integrate with the sonobuoys we manufacture.

• We’re growing responsibly — We have the resources to hire a lot more people, but we don’t want to build a massive team of people who don’t share our values.

• We’re profitable — We aren’t burning through cash trying to make the business work. But we also have investors who believe in us and are committed to our success.

• We care about doing great work — You don’t need permission to sweat the details here.

• We don’t take ourselves too seriously — We’re building products that make the world safer. But we don’t let that get to our heads.

What we offer

• Unlimited PTO — Take the time you need to recharge and maintain work-life balance.

• Dedicated Sick Time — Your health and well-being 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 time 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 (position dependent).

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 throughout 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 to grow professionally while working on projects that truly matter, we’d love to hear from you.